The Climate Emergency Advisory Committee of Leeds Council held a hybrid consultative meeting on Monday, 17 June 2024. The meeting featured discussions on the Bumblebee Conservation Trust's manifesto, the Yorkshire Sustainability Festival, updates from the Economy and Finance Working Group, a director's update on Children and Families, and an update on the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Network. Recommendations were made on various agenda items, although no formal decisions were taken due to the consultative nature of the meeting.

Bumblebee Conservation Trust

The Bumblebee Conservation Trust presented a video outlining their manifesto and pledge to protect pollinators. The Trust highlighted the critical role of pollinators in food production and the natural ecosystem, noting that 90% of plants in the UK rely on insect pollination. The Trust's manifesto proposed five core recommendations, focusing on prioritising pollinators over pesticides, improving flower-rich habitats, and accelerating efforts to tackle climate change. The presentation slides were shared with committee members, and it was proposed that the protection of pollinators be considered as a future working group item. The Green Spaces department's new Technical Officer is working on biodiversity initiatives, including a project at Roundhay Park.

Yorkshire Sustainability Festival

The founder of the Yorkshire Sustainability Festival provided an overview of the upcoming event scheduled for summer 2024. The festival, rebranded from Yorkshire Sustainability Week, aims to be the largest business sustainability event in the North of England. It will feature a series of round table discussions, keynote speakers, and engagement events across the Yorkshire region from 10 to 21 June 2024. The festival is partnered with the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission and seeks to create a regional Conference of Parties. Members were requested to assist in identifying speakers for panel discussions.

Working Groups Update

An update was provided on the recent Economy and Finance Working Group, which focused on improving the procurement process to address value for money and social value. The Council spends approximately £1.3 billion annually on procurement, and existing Government guidance recommends a 10% minimum weight for social outcomes. The Council's guidelines focus on employment and skills, the environment, and education. The Committee agreed to ask all directors to report on procurement at future meetings.

Director's Update - Children and Families

Phil Evans, Chief Officer for Service Transform & Partnership (Children’s and Families), provided a verbal update on the directorate's work. Key points included the Children’s Mayor’s manifesto focusing on climate change, the development of the 12 wishes of Child Friendly Leeds, and various initiatives to promote climate action in schools. The Eco-Committee Conference is scheduled for 25 March 2024, and the 'get creative for climate' project has been launched in Leeds primary schools. The Assets and Access team is working to improve building sustainability and energy efficiency in schools.

Update on the Development of the WY Mass Transit Network

Stacey White, Interim Head of Place and Consents - Mass Transit at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), presented an update on the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Programme. The programme aims to improve connectivity between urban and rural areas, with a focus on affordable and efficient transport. Phase one will develop a Leeds line and a Bradford line, with construction expected to commence in 2028. The sustainability strategy includes increased air quality, reduced waste, and improved travel information. Public consultation is planned for summer 2024, and further details can be found on the Mass Transit West Yorkshire website.

Climate Emergency Advisory Committee 2024/25 Forward Plan

Rachel Wainwright, Policy Officer (Climate, Energy and Green Spaces), presented the proposed meeting schedule for the 2024/25 municipal year. The plan includes topics for discussion, director updates, and a more streamlined approach to working groups. Members suggested tracking updates for nature and tree planting initiatives, indoor air quality, and procurement best practices. The WYCA green energy hub project and the carbon footprint of accessing NHS services were also proposed as future topics.

For more details, you can refer to the Minutes of Previous Meeting and the Forward Plan cover report.