Barnsley Council is reviewing its climate and net-zero related activities, with a decision pending on whether to rescind its 2019 climate emergency declaration. The council's environmental strategy, known as Zero40, aims for the authority's operations and carbon emissions to reach net zero by 2040. A parallel strategy, Zero45, targets the entire borough to achieve net zero by 2045.
A report from 2024 indicated that the council was not on track to meet its carbon emission reduction goals. In light of this, Barnsley Council is reassessing its approach. Council leader Steve Jarman stated that the council will continue to support practical environmental work that offers tangible benefits to residents and businesses. This includes initiatives aimed at reducing household energy bills, enhancing the energy efficiency of homes and council buildings, lowering long-term operational expenses, assisting local businesses, and securing external funding for the borough.
Jarman also commented on the broader political landscape, stating, "The war on woke is only just beginning. We have taken the first steps, but there is much more to do." He added, "We have stood up for our countryside, got the bins back on track and we are standing firm on our intention to withdraw the climate emergency declaration."
A preliminary report on the review is expected by the end of September. This move by Barnsley Council follows similar actions by other local authorities. Earlier this year, the Reform-led Wakefield Council voted to rescind its climate and biodiversity emergency declaration, originally made in May 2019. Several other councils led by the Reform party, including Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, Sunderland Council, South Tyneside Council, and Walsall Council, have also passed motions to withdraw their respective pledges.