The clock is ticking, climate change and our ability to prevent the worst effects of global warming. As we recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, we need to ensure that we are building an economy suitable for the future. In the process of transitioning to zero carbon, we need to keep in mind that we are designing a fair and just economy, providing quality jobs, improving well-being, and reducing inequality among people in our communities.
As a large city in London, Croydon plays a key role in responding to the climate crisis. Croydon’s emissions are higher than the median of the London Borough. Many residents of the district are employed in carbon-intensive industries such as freight transport and civil engineering. At the same time, Croydon faces climate risks, such as overheating due to urban heat island effects and flooding. The borough has a history of flooding. Since Croydon is listed as the fourth settlement in England most vulnerable to surface water flooding, the history of flooding may deteriorate. In addition, Croydon’s vast green and open spaces are threatened by development and growth pressures and must be protected to enhance and protect biodiversity.
In 2019, it is estimated that for Croydon to stay within its carbon budget, it will need to achieve most of its carbon emissions reductions within the next ten years. The analysis also shows that although Croydon can reduce the gap between its estimated emissions in 2050 and its net zero emission target by 61% by adopting existing options, more innovative options are needed to achieve the final 39%.
In the process of preparing municipalities to adapt to climate risks while reducing emissions, the council must always be aware of people’s different social vulnerabilities to the climate change crisis, and seek to implement key policy solutions that reflect the demographic, social and environmental background. Program. Its people.
our suggestion
The Croydon City Council needs to play a leadership role and establish a clear line to promote the rapid reduction of carbon emissions from Croydon District activities and achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. If the entire system does not cooperate, it will not be able to achieve the required scale of change within the necessary time frame: education, skills, and broader public sector organizations; businesses, employees, and labor unions; communities and voluntary agencies; and local residents.
Photo: iStock
