The Climate Emergency and Sustainability Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel met to discuss climate resilience and review the business waste pilot.

Climate Resilience

The panel engaged in a policy development discussion on climate resilience, focusing on how Bath & North East Somerset Council can prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change. Councillor John Leach, Member Advocate for Climate Resilience, highlighted that climate change is not a future risk but a present reality, evidenced by recent extreme heatwaves and rainfall. The council has undertaken its first corporate climate risk assessment, identifying risks to staff health and wellbeing, business continuity, vulnerable groups, council assets, and the built environment.

Key priorities identified include embedding climate adaptation into existing planning processes, improving the understanding of climate impacts on the organisation through monitoring, and strengthening policies for climate-resilient workplaces. The panel discussed the need to align with the Climate Change Committee's advice, particularly regarding public service delivery and keeping staff safe at work. Concerns were raised about the severity of future climate scenarios and the need for more proactive adaptation planning. The discussion also touched upon the challenges of engaging with schools and the importance of clear communication with residents about climate impacts and the council's adaptation efforts.

Business Waste Pilot Review

The panel reviewed the interim findings of the business waste pilot, which introduced new rules for businesses in central Bath regarding waste and recycling collection times, the use of reusable rubbish bags, and labelling of containers. The pilot aimed to improve the aesthetic appeal of the city centre. While the pilot has seen improved compliance, with a significant reduction in enforcement actions compared to previous practices, businesses raised concerns about increased costs and the impracticality of adhering to the new collection windows, particularly for those closing before 6 pm. The report indicated that 41 Fixed Penalty Notices had been issued by April 2026 to businesses repeatedly failing to comply. A key challenge identified, outside the scope of the business waste pilot, is uncontained waste from holiday let accommodation. The panel discussed the effectiveness of the education-led approach and the need for continued monitoring and engagement.

Cabinet Member Update

Councillor Sarah Warren, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, provided an update on several initiatives. Surveys are underway with Wessex Water to restore the pond in Royal Victoria Park. Work continues on the climate and nature strategy, which will be presented to the panel in September. A consultation on a new clean air strategy has recently concluded, and work is ongoing on a tree and woodland strategy. The council has also been running People's Emergency Briefing sessions for councillors and staff. The finalisation of the local food strategy was also mentioned.

Panel Workplan

The panel noted its future workplan. The local flood risk management strategy was identified as a priority to be brought to a future meeting.