More than 30 councillors and an MP attended a climate emergency workshop in Winchester.

The event, organised by Winchester Action on the Climate Crisis (WinACC), saw parish, Winchester City and Hampshire County councillors, as well as Danny Chambers MP, discuss the role of local leaders in tackling climate change.

Phil Gagg from WinACC presented government data on greenhouse gas emissions in the Winchester district, which have remained largely unchanged over the past two decades despite a shift away from coal-powered electricity.

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The event highlighted the role of local leaders in tackling climate change (Image: WinACC) Mr Chambers addressed the councillors on Thursday, October 3, and, saying: "Climate change, nature, biodiversity and agricultural issues are some of the main reasons I have become involved in politics.

"I am very pleased that WinACC has organised this workshop today. We need to empower individuals and communities to take the decisions that affect them."

The workshop focused on the impact of transport, domestic energy, and land use on the carbon footprint of communities.

Attendees shared ideas on how councils at all levels—parish, city, and county—can collaborate on these issues.

They agreed that effective planning, environmental policies and transport decisions can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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Cllr Kelsie Learney, Winchester City Council member for the climate, said: "We sometimes need to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.

"We need to look at what we’re doing to our environment and try to tackle the things that will have the biggest impact in the shortest amount of time.

"The enthusiasm in the room, along with the recognition that all levels of council are able to play their part, means we’re hoping to see some positive action over the course of the next year."

Jo Crocker, executive director for WinACC, said: "Many people in Winchester are deeply concerned about the climate crisis.

"If decision-makers can act swiftly, it will become easier for all of us to adopt sustainable living practices, helping to restore nature and protect the world around us."

The event left attendees energised and eager to share insights on how local communities contribute to the climate crisis and to work together to make a difference.

They agreed that the right decisions on planning, environmental policies, and transport can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.