City of London set to become a world leader in the fight for Climate change.

With a plan founded on science-based targets, the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy will invest £68 million fighting climate change over the first six years, creating 800 green jobs.

Updated City planning regulations will ensure new developments include carbon reduction plans in their designs and encourage more sustainable buildings including green roofs and walls. Elected Members also agreed to develop a new Climate Action Fund, which would see the City Corporation and other large businesses in the Square Mile combine financial resources and skills to co-invest in low or zero-carbon technologies, decreasing carbon emissions even further.

More street space will be dedicated to walking and cycling in the City, with wider pavements, new parks, timed street closures and flood-resistant road surfaces installed. The City Corporation will also invest £2 million to introduce sustainable land management practices at some of its parks and open spaces.

Catherine McGuinness, Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, said:

"Climate change directly impacts everyone. We need to prepare for it, and we have to act now. We do not need to compromise the economy to fix the environment – our climate action plans will drive both growth and jobs. Working in partnership with City firms we will strengthen our position and become a world leader in the climate change fight. This is about boosting our economy, protecting our natural and built environment and tackling climate change head on. Together we will build a greener City, where we all play our part.”

Read more about the new Climate Action Strategy here - www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/climateaction