Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Sustainability Team Manager.

The committee received a report of the Sustainability Team Manager which provided quantitative reporting on the consequent changes to the council and county emissions trajectory.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the report and during discussion, points were raised in the following areas:

·       The presentation of information, including use of graphs, in the report provided improved clarity of data and trends

·       The figures showed the council was being an exemplar in this area although it was noted that there was scope for further improvements in relation to both council and county figures

·       Information on the Local Nature Recovery Strategy was provided

·       Further work needed to be undertaken on the analysis of lifetime carbon emissions and be considered as part of decisions taken

·       Issues around the council’s fleet were considered, including types of vehicles used and how emissions were recorded and could be reduced. The council had to plan ahead in this area, but it was noted that technology was developing

·       Issues around agriculture and methane emissions were noted

·       Points were raised on the condition of Dorset’s ecological network and work underway to improve habitats. Mapping work was being undertaken.

At this point in the meeting, it was proposed by J Andrews seconded by B Heatley and agreed by the committee, that the meeting continue beyond the 3-hour limit as set out in the Constitution.

Discussion continued with points raised in the following areas:

·       Business mileage and the positioning of vehicles and electric charging points across the council area were noted

·       Projects to plant trees on council owned land and for sea grass protection were being considered

·       The importance of Dorset Council working with town and parish councils in this area was recognised and detail of work being undertaken with the Dorset Association of Parish and Town Councils was provided

·       Information on the carbon strategy in the highways team was provided.

The Chairman thanked officers for the report and for the attendance of contributing officers from across teams in the council.

A short adjournment was held at the conclusion of the item.

Councillors J Andrews and B Goringe left the meeting at this point.

The meeting returned at 1.26pm.