Climate & Nature

The twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss are a global issue, but there is also much that can be done at a local level. 

Biodiversity is the whole variety of life on Earth, all species of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world. It can be measured of various level such as genetic, species and ecosystem diversity.  It includes not just the rare or the threatened but also the wildlife that is familiar to us in the places where we live and work. Each of these species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life. Biodiversity supports everything in nature that we need to survive: food, clean water, medicine and shelter.

The UK’s wildlife is continuing to decline according to the most recent State of Nature Report from 2023. All public authorities, including South Gloucestershire Council and town and parish councils, have a legal duty to conserve and enhance biodiversity while conducting their activities.

Action at the local level is essential to the UK meeting its legally binding target to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 100 % by 2050 (compared with 1990 levels). Climate change negatively impacts the economy, our health and wellbeing, agriculture, wildlife and our wider environment. Local communities have a role to play in meeting national goals.

Our Local Climate and Nature Action Plan aims to engage, empower and enthuse members of the Olveston community to take what steps are possible that will be effective in restoring nature and reducing carbon emissions locally.