COP26 – think global, act local

It is vital that the COP26 Conference in Glasgow later this year achieves its ambitious objectives. We are on the footslopes of a global climate crisis that threatens our future if we don’t act now. However, many people feel powerless in the face of such catastrophes and revert to expecting others, for example politicians and scientists, to solve the problem. The phrase ‘think global, act local’ is often used to encourage communities and individuals to all play a part. In East Hampshire, the local MP Damian Hinds is working with the District Council on a local COP26 process that will focus on what we can do locally to accelerate the journey to net carbon zero: individual families and firms, local government, the public sector, schools, voluntary groups and civil society. It is planned that an event in October will showcase local best practice and identify specific and tangible actions that can help reduce our collective carbon footprint. Various specialists have been co-opted to help advise on aspects of this challenge. Andy Moffat was delighted to be invited to take part in one of three workstreams that is examining the role of land management, farming and forestry. The working group has also discussed how urban communities can play an important part. Further information on COP26 East Hampshire can be found HERE and a copy of the final report of the Land use and Agriculture Action Group can be downloaded HERE.