Climate Change Challenge
In 1996, the Authority agreed that "the principle of sustainability should be central to all the Authority's future policies, plans and programmes".
From this principle the Authority has taken a strategic whole Authority approach to carbon reduction and climate change. Emphasis has been given on practical, achievable projects which, up until 2008, had cost very little financially but had reduced Authority emissions by 18% since 2005. The Authority is now moving forward with larger projects which will further greatly reduce its carbon footprint.
To help others become more sustainable we wish to share with you our policies, plans and programmes which helps us to become a more sustainable National Park:
External Programmes and Involvement:
> We have created
Top Tips to encourage people to live a more sustainable life.
> We operate the sustainable development fund
CAE (Cronfa Arbrofol Eryri) grant scheme.
> We contribute towards
Snowdonia Green Key which focuses on improving sustainable transport for locals and visitors within Snowdonia.
> We work with a large number of landowners on carbon capture schemes.
> We are a member of the
Gwynedd Local Service Board Carbon Reduction Team.
> We supported
Wales Sustainability Week and
WWF's Earth Hour.
Internal Programmes and Activities:
> We have signed up to the
national 10:10 Project, an ambitious scheme that looks to cutting 10% on carbon emissions in 2010.
> In 2009 we were awarded the
Highly Commended assessment at the prestigious
Excellence Wales Awards organised by the Welsh Local Government Association for our work in responding to climate change.
> We have adopted the
Green Dragon Environmental Standard and achieved Level 4 in 2007.
> Plas Tan y Bwlch, our Environmental Studies Centre, was awarded
Eco-Centre status in 2006.
> Preparatory work are being put in place to establish a
hydro-electric scheme at Plas Tan y Bwlch.
> Improvements have been done to
Plas Tan y Bwlch heating system. > Solar Panels have been installed at the Llyn Tegid Boathouse.
> Travel allowances for staff and members are being based on carbon emissions rather than engine size.
> All staff and Members receive
Environmental Awareness training and we have produced an
Environmental Awareness Booklet showing how we can all reduce carbon production at home and at work.
> We have established a
cross departmental Eco team.
Policies and Plans:
> National Park Management Plan> Local Development Plan >Sustainable Design Guide > State of the Park Report > Local Biodiversity Action Plan> Environmental PolicyWe feel that by including Carbon Reduction and Climate Change as themes through all policies, plans and projects we can achieve results and become a more sustainable National Park.
Click on the link below to read the Welsh Assembly Government's guide on how to become more sustainable:
For further information on sustainable development visit the Welsh Assembly Government's website: www.wales.gov.uk/sustainabledevelopment
