Stoke-on-Trent commits to building a greener and fairer future for all

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has signed a charter committing to building a sustainable and fair future for the city and county as it looks to take further steps to combat climate change.

The charter – signed at Lichfield Cathedral on Friday 14 March - was produced by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Celebration of the Possible (COP) - an alliance that brings together communities, councils, academics and other partners around a shared vision of a happier, healthier future based on better stewardship of the environment.

Earlier this year, COP announced its commitment to a decade-long action plan, which will drive collaboration and chart a clear path forward. By signing the charter, the city will commit to proactive measures to combat climate change and consider nature and sustainability in its decision-making. The charter is based on so-called "doughnut economics", which suggest that humanity should exist in a space where needs are met but where economic activity does not go beyond the planet's natural limits.

Stoke-on-Trent has committed to playing its part in the government's target of being 'net zero' -. taking out more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere than it puts in – by 2050.

The city’s dedication to a greener future is already underway with its new Economic Strategy, which focuses on community wealth-building and supporting sustainable, green industries. These initiatives align closely with the city’s environmental goals, aiming to make Stoke-on-Trent a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous place for all residents.

Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Signing the COP Charter is a natural next step for us. It fits perfectly with our goal to create a sustainable, thriving city.

“We’re already taking action, including early development of a District Heat Network, promoting sustainable travel through our Transforming Cities programme and Bus Service Improvement Protocol, and we will be supporting tree planting in celebration of our Centenary.

“We’re also focused on ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed. By making Stoke-on-Trent a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive city, we can help everyone enjoy the benefits of a greener future.”

The signing of the COP Charter is an important milestone in Stoke-on-Trent’s journey to becoming a cleaner, fairer, and more resilient city. To learn more about the city’s strategy for 2024-2028 – Our City, Our Wellbeing – residents can visit:  https://www.stoke.gov.uk/ourcityourwellbeing.