Next steps: write our story
This paper is a first attempt at a WMCA position of what actions need to be taken in order to meet the climate challenge without leaving anyone behind. It is the storyboard, waiting for people across this region to bring it to life. Some of the actions are about doing things we already do differently. Some are already being developed and delivered as part of business as usual. Others will require new powers and investment.
Either way, we need to turn to the region’s people, businesses, Councils and community organisations, to give us a sense of whether we are in the right place. This will be part of an overarching campaign, ‘Let’s Talk 2041’, which everyone can participate in, championed by the Mayor Andy Street, the Environment Portfolio Holder, Councillor Ian Courts, and the wider leadership of the WMCA.
To get you started, here are some key questions – but your responses can cover anything relevant:
1. Is anything missing: do the action areas provide the right impetus for change? Which policies, investments and changes do you think are the most important?
2. Barriers and opportunities: many people, places and businesses in this region have been pushing for action on climate change for a long time now, or have been quietly and diligently delivering that change. What do you see as the main barriers to meeting the climate change challenge, and which opportunities are too good to miss?
3. Accountability and governance: how do we ensure that we as a region do what is necessary to avert climate breakdown? Should WMCA and local councils have oversight of this, or do we need to create new partnerships?
4. Citizen involvement: people exercise their democratic rights at the ballot box, but there are many other ways for that to happen. Should we create a citizen’s assembly or similar, to shape and drive this work? Or are there better ways to involve people?
The responses to this paper, and Let’s Talk 2041 will help us to create an investment programme to accompany this report. Now is the time to help us get this right.
Email your thoughts, or offer to host a discussion with your organisation, place, or network: WM2041@wmca.org.uk. WMCA staff will provide you with a presentation and facilitation notes and will attend where possible.