#LeedsClimate Newsletter - December Edition

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Wednesday 21st December 2022


News

Aerial photograph of Bardsey Primary School showing green upgrades including solar panels on the roof.

Leeds graded ‘A’ for climate action by Carbon Disclosure Project 

Leeds City Council was recently announced as one of 122 global ‘A-list’ cities leading the way on climate action by the CDP. A-list status recognises the robustness of Leeds' plans to tackle and adapt to climate change. In recent years, the council has worked with partners to deliver more than half a billion pounds worth of local climate-related schemes. The authority is also updating some of its most influential policy documents to ensure decisions it takes complement climate mitigation and adaption. 

Find out more about what CDP ‘A-list’ status means. 


New hubs will support communities to walk and cycle

Seven organisations in Leeds are among thirteen in West Yorkshire selected to receive up to £50,000 to set up ‘Community Active Travel Hubs’. The hubs will provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ to help people to walk and cycle more—supporting people with routes, equipment, training, and group activities. The Mayor of West Yorkshire announced the funding recipients within the last month.  

See which local organisations were awarded funding to set up hubs.


Over 3,500 winter coats donated thanks to Zero Waste Leeds appeal

Through Leeds Winter Coat Appeal, coats are being distributed to families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis via warm hubs and community groups. The Appeal aims to collect and redistribute good quality, second hand winter coats, hoodies and fleeces and redistribute them for free. The scheme, which is running until March, helps to reduce waste and so far, has saved local families an estimated £70,000.

Find out more information about where to donate or pick up a coat.


Opportunities

Photograph of Tracy Brabin, the Mayor of West Yorkshire

Mayor offers cash prize for innovative ideas to solve climate challenges from young people 

West Yorkshire residents aged 16-26 are being asked to bring their passion and creativity to tackle some of the key challenges facing us all. Entrants can have ideas about anything from waste to travel and more, to improve the environment in Leeds. The best idea will win a £5,000 cash prize and access to free training, mentoring and tailored support to help bring their idea to life. 

Check out the entry criteria and how to apply before 22 January. 


Volunteer to plant trees at Gair Wood

Help plant a new 37 hectare woodland near Golden Acre Park by volunteering time for tree planting with the University of Leeds. Gair Wood will eventually be home to 66,000 new trees, a mixture of broadleaf species including oak, elder and silver birch. Volunteers do not need any experience and all equipment will be provided.

Book your place and help the University of Leeds plant trees in Leeds.


Make a climate pledge for your organisation

Businesses and other organisations across the region are being encouraged to show customers, clients, and staff their commitment to tackling climate change by signing the Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission’s ‘Climate Action Pledge’. To sign, organisations must commit to taking action to improve climate resilience, work towards net zero, and boost nature in a fair way—and will be supported by the Commission to do so. Organisations of all sizes and across all sectors can sign the pledge, regardless of where they currently are on their climate journey.

Join the 37 businesses and organisations who have already signed up.


Spotlight

Photograph of the Sulzer pumps wildlife garden showing the pond surrounded by trees and wooden benches.

Local business creates nature garden on its land

Sulzer, a global pump manufacture, service and repair company has taken bold steps to support plant and animal life. Over the last few years, Sulzer has developed a large wildlife garden at its Leeds site complete with a butterfly garden (home to six species of trees and shrubs), four beehives, and a large natural pond that provides habitat for insects. Employees can purchase honey produced by the hives and spend off-time reconnecting with nature and relaxing on the garden’s footpaths and benches.

Read more about the company is working towards its sustainability commitments.


Climate Emergency Advisory Committee

If you would like to raise an issue, comment or opportunity as part of a future CEAC meeting, please get in touch to find out more about taking part in the Open Forum.

Contact climate.emergency@leeds.gov.uk and include “Open Forum” in the subject line for more information.