Rutland's 'Climate Change Champion' is urging people to think about their actions on Earth Day.

Earlier this year Rutland County Council declared a Climate Crisis for the county and it made Cllr Lucy Stephenson its Climate Change Champion.

Coun Stephenson said: "Through this declaration we have committed to supporting the county to respond to the global climate crisis and we are now implementing changes as a Council to act on the causes and impacts of climate change.

"The Council is dedicated to having a positive impact on the environment.

"Amongst the many initiatives we have implemented, a Biodiversity Task and Finish Group was formed last year and has developed a set of recommendations that will seek to establish a good variety of plant and animal life across the county to ensure the long-term sustainability of our natural environment.

"We have reduced our energy usage and will continue to focus on this as Covid-19 restrictions continue to lessen.

"We also continue to pursue funding opportunities to promote sustainability and carbon funding – for example we successfully obtained grant funding to promote "Active Travel" and cycling and walking routes.

"In May, we will be holding the county's first Climate Conversation. Through this virtual webinar, environment, climate and highways professionals will share their knowledge and experience with residents to support the Council and county in developing a network of community-led Climate Action Groups."

Coun Stephenson continued: "Climate change is everyone's responsibility and on Earth Day, I am urging residents to consider your impact on the environment. Could you consume less, grow more, reuse your leftovers, and improve how you recycle? Every small change we make, adds up to a big difference.

"We are now almost halfway through the Future Rutland Conversation and I would encourage anyone who has not got involved to do so and provide your thoughts and aspirations for the county's future through the general survey and the Environment and Climate Change questionnaire."

Rutland residents can register their interest in the Climate Conversation email [email protected]

Find out more about the Future Rutland Conversation and take part by going to: www.rutland.gov.uk/FutureRutland.

Anyone who wants to take part in the Future Rutland Conversation but does not have access to the internet can call Rutland County Council on 01572 722 577.