Daniel Zeichner, MP for Cambridge, led a debate in Parliament this week commending the efforts of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Commission on Climate Change.

The Independent Commission on Climate Change for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough produced their first report this year. Led by Baroness Brown, the Commission published their recommendations on transport, buildings, energy, and peat for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and the government. The Commission is due to release a second report on water, waste, and a just transition later this year.

Under Dr Nik Johnson, the Combined Authority has committed to acting on the Commission’s recommendations. These include investing in climate change mitigation measures for the Fens, adopting a net zero standard for new homes, and ensuring greater provisions for charging electric cars.

Zeichner, who recently became Shadow Environment Secretary, commended the responses to the Commission from the Cambridge City Council and Mayor Nik Johnson. He urged the government to support local councils more in helping tackle climate change. 

Zeichner said in his speech on Wednesday (08/09): “We are fortunate, in Cambridge, and Cambridgeshire, to live in a truly beautiful region of the UK, with fenland, nature reserves, peatland restoration projects, and more.”

He continued: “As the impacts of climate change become more apparent, it is clear we must act to protect those things that make Cambridgeshire and Peterborough so special. Local politicians are up for it. The question is, are the Government prepared to play their role?”

Zeichner praised the work of local individuals and businesses, saying that he “was proud, but not surprised, to read that the Commission’s survey of local residents showed a strong appetite for climate action.”