Dorset Council are encouraging members of the public to submit ideas on how the Council might be able to help tackle climate and ecological concerns.
It is now clear that the world has less than 10 years to switch away from fossil fuels to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
In response to this, Dorset Council declared a Climate and Ecological Emergency in May 2019. Councillors and officers have been working behind the scenes to develop ideas for a climate emergency strategy and action plan. Since December they have been calling on all Dorset residents to submit their ideas for how they think Dorset Council can tackle the climate and ecological emergency.
Whilst this is primarily aimed at Dorset doing its part in tackling a global crisis, it is also an opportunity. For example, reducing energy use and switching to clean energy will also increase energy security, improve air quality, minimise fuel poverty, boost the local economy and provide jobs and training.
The deadline for submissions for ideas is 28 February and therefore with the support of Transition Towns, Sustainable Dorset and Extinction Rebellion there will be three People’s Assemblies held to facilitate discussion and ideas building prior to the deadline.
People’s Assemblies are a way for a group of people to discuss issues or make decisions collectively, so that all voices are heard and valued equally and no one person or group is able to dominate the process. They are a fine example of participatory democracy processes that are successful in generating ideas, gathering feedback and making decisions.
You have the power to use your voice and work alongside your neighbours to tackle this emergency together. Every resident of Dorset is strongly encouraged to have their say and influence one of the most important processes of our time.
Portland/Easton Methodist Church/10 Feb /7-9pm
Dorchester/Dorford Centre/17 Feb/7-9pm
Weymouth/The Pavillion (Ocean Room)/19 Feb/1-3pm
