A CLIMATE change inquiry by an independent group of Warwick district residents will launch this week.
Last month a random selection of 5,000 residents received letters asking them to take part in the pioneering project. More than 500 responses were received from which 30 people were chosen.
The panel aims to reflect the district’s population in terms of age, gender, ethnicity, geography and attitude to climate change.
The group will begin a three-month inquiry into how to address the issues of climate change in the district.
Starting on Thursday (November 12), the group will participate in ten sessions led by independent facilitators, Shared Future. They will look at topics ranging from the science behind climate change and practical options for how we can make a difference locally, to home energy and the impact of industry, business and transport.
The inquiry will make its recommendation early next year. It will be used to develop an action plan to work towards carbon neutrality by 2030.
To ensure the process is fair and balanced, the inquiry is being planned and overseen by local organisations including business representatives, community groups, town and parish councils, academics and other agencies.
Warwick District Council’s environment spokesman Alan Rhead said: “I am delighted that the inquiry is now getting underway. This is a vitally important process for everyone living in our district, especially as it will allow ordinary people to look at climate change issues in depth, share ideas and develop recommendations in their own words. I hope the inquiry will provide us all with a rich and new perspective. I am committed to ensuring the recommendations influence the council’s plans for the future and am very much looking forward to hearing what they have to say.”
