Join my Campaign: Call on Suffolk County Council to Make Climate Action a Priority Again

On 16 July 2026, Reform-led Suffolk County Council voted to rescind the Climate Emergency declaration adopted by the previous administration in 2019. 

 

Just 13 days later, a devastating wildfire broke out at Dunwich Heath and RSPB Minsmere. It forced evacuations, caused immense environmental damage and led to the largest wildfire response in Suffolk’s history. 

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I’m by no means suggesting that a Climate Emergency declaration would have prevented the fire. But it must make us reflect seriously on the risks Suffolk faces from extreme heat, prolonged dry conditions and other forms of extreme weather. 

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The County Council argues that declarations are no substitute for practical action, and that environmental programmes must deliver results and value for money. I agree. Every programme should be effective, evidence-based and properly scrutinised. 

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But this is a false choice. Suffolk can make a clear public commitment to tackling climate change while also demanding practical, measurable action. 

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A Climate Emergency declaration sets a direction, provides a benchmark against which progress can be judged and allows residents to hold the council accountable.

 

Rescinding it sends the opposite message: that addressing climate change is no longer a priority. This is particularly concerning alongside Reform UK’s national commitment to scrap Net Zero policies. 

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That is why I am calling on Suffolk County Council Leader, Councillor Michael Hadwen to reinstate Suffolk’s Climate Emergency declaration. 

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Sign up to my campaign and you will send an email to Councillor Hadwen, telling him to show the will to act, reinstate the declaration and turn that commitment into effective, measurable action.