More than 50 people attended the Council’s annual debate on Tuesday (5 April) with community members discussing how the future of Mid Devon could be conserved and protected.

Councillors, local groups and residents were invited to the event to work together, raise questions and discuss potential ideas to tackle climate change in the community.

Renewable energy, public transport and green investments were among some of the key issues considered, with community-led projects and support also being debated by attendees.

A number of topic specialists provided valuable insights, speaking on themes such as energy advice for our homes, impacts on farming and successful green projects that are taking place within the district.

Mukti Mitchell, Founding Director of Carbon Savvy was the guest speaker and shared tips for cutting carbon in our everyday lives, with a real focus on raising our quality of life. His opening speech was hailed a “brilliant base for talks” by Council Leader Bob Deed.

Following the debate, which focused on the three themes of homes, leisure and work, Councillors will be considering what they heard during the event and looking at ways to work with communities to address the issues raised.

Cllr Colin Slade, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said:

“This annual event provides a valuable platform for communication between community groups, individuals, parish/town councils, councillors and the district council. Important matters such as Climate Change affect us all so it is vital that we all have our say and try to contribute to resolve these issues.

“I would like to thank those who got involved with event and look forward to having many more meaningful conversations about such topics.”

Guest Speaker, Mukti Mitchell, said:

“It was thrilling to take part in such a lively and inspiring debate. Mid Devon Council is taking a strong lead and residents posed brilliant questions and expressed their desire to know more about the steps they can take to reach Net Zero. Whether it’s buying food produced in Devon, using electric blankets to cut your heating bills or purchasing quality long-lasting goods, there is something everyone can do and it usually improves your quality of life and community connections too.”

The Council knows the importance of tackling climate change and how important residents feel it is. Following a recent survey it found that 90% of Mid Devon residents thought it was very or fairly important that the Council tackles climate change. The Council has its own Climate Strategy which shows how it aims to reach net-zero by 2030 and outlines steps it intends to take to address the issue of Climate Change. 

Visit the Sustainable Mid Devon website to see what else the Council is doing to make Mid Devon cleaner, greener and more sustainable, and/or sign up to an email newsletter for the latest climate and sustainability news.