We set out five goals in Everyone’s Essex to protect and improve our environment. They are:
· hit net zero targets
· deliver sustainable travel
· minimise waste
· foster green communities
· level up the environment
The Essex Forest Initiative is just one result of these aims. It is our commitment to plant over 375,000 trees in the county between 2019 and 2025.
This year, it saw a vast meadow planted on Mersea Island to rejuvenate natural habitats.
Councillor Peter Schwier, Climate Czar and Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction and Recycling, helped plant 600 metres of hedgerows and 5,000 sq metres of shrubs outside the Essex Outdoors Mersea Centre.
He was joined by our Head of Climate Adaptation & Mitigation, John Meehan.
The meadow helps our aim to protect a third of natural areas around the River Blackwater and River Colne. These are areas identified in the Essex Climate Focus Area.
It also supports Biodiversity Net Gain. This initiative ensures natural habitats are in better state than before developments.
Councillor Schwier said: “I am delighted we have been able to begin the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain by creating what will be a beautiful natural meadow.
“This new meadow also helps us achieve our aims for the Essex Climate Focus Area, as well as our ambitious Essex Climate Action Plan.
“Essex County Council understands the importance of Biodiversity Net Gain and wants to lead the way for its delivery in Essex.”
You can now read our Everyone’s Essex pledge refreshed for 2024/25. It details five key priorities, including the environment.
We promise to continue fostering a high-quality environment, achieving net-zero targets and minimising waste.