Welcome to Environment and Planning

Climate change

What is climate change?

Our planet is surrounded by a blanket of gases which keeps the earth's surface warm and able to sustain life. This blanket is getting thicker, trapping in heat as we release greenhouse gases by burning fossil fuels for energy and as we cut down forests and replace them with agricultural land. This is why the climate is starting to change.

For example, we may experience more frequent extreme weather events and changes in water levels will have major implications for ecosystems, growing seasons, animals, people and even businesses.

It is important that we avoid further changes.

What are we doing in Knowsley?

Knowsley’s Strategic Housing and Environment Partnership is currently developing a climate change strategy for the borough. The strategy will look at the possible impacts of climate change on the local economy, environment and society and outline how we propose to adapt to these changes. In addition, the strategy will outline what we need to do reduce our contribution to climate change. You can find out more by visiting the Partnership website (see related links below).

Knowsley Council has signed up to the North West Climate Change Charter, making commitments to reduce the council's contribution to climate change. The council has also signed up to the Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change. The declaration commits the council to produce an action plan or strategy within the next 2 years. The council is now working towards the development of its climae change strategy.

How you can make a change

Turning your thermostat down by 1ºC could cut your heating bills by up to 10% and save you around £30 per year.
Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
Always turn off the lights when you leave a room and don’t leave appliances on standby.
Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you’re using an electric kettle).
Replace your light bulbs with energy saving recommended ones. Just one can reduce your lighting costs by up to £78 over the life time of the bulb – and they last up to 12 times longer than ordinary light bulbs.
Remember to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle as much as possible! 92% of the rubbish we throw away everyday could be reduced, reused or recycled.
Say ‘No’ to plastic bags, use reusable or long-life shopping bags
When shopping avoid products with excess packaging.
Walk and cycle whenever you can instead of using the car.
Plan your trips to avoid multiple journeys.
Use public transport whenever you can.
Drive sensibly. Avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking.

Who to Contact

Sustainability and Environmental Development

Telephone: 0151 443 2485

Write to or Visit:
Neighbourhood Delivery,
Stretton Way,
Merseyside
L36 6JF

Email: dnd.sustainability@knowsley.gov.uk

Environment Highlights...

Visit...

Sustainable Development Website (Opens in new window)
Find out more about sustainable development and the environment