Environment Strategy
EERA has worked closely with the East of England Environment Forum (EEEF) to try and understand the region's environment better. In July 2003, "Our Environment, Our Future" was developed - a regional enviornment strategy for the East of England.
It sets out a vision for the region that celebrates, protects and enhances our natural , historic and built environment.
A new phase in the implementation of the Regional Environment Strategy began in 2005 with the establishment of an EERA Environment and Resources Panel. Whilst the Panel has a wide remit in terms of topics of interest, it has a particular responsibility as guardian of the Region's Environment Strategy.
Following a review of progess on the implementation of the strategy completed in 2005, the Environment and Resources Panel agreed a series of 6 Priorities. These are a distillation from the Regional Environment Strategy to help them focus their work on the most significant regional environmental challenges. These priorities are as follows:
- Overaching priority (1) - Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in recognition of the threat of climate change
- Priority (2) - Keep development within environmental limits, with specific measures to take account of water shortages and flood risk
- Priority (3) - Reduce road traffic and car dependence
- Priority (4) - Maintain and enhance environmental capital
- Priority (5) - Support environmental business by promoting the green economy and its sustainable development
- Priority (6) - Reduce the amount of waste regionally