Derry City and Strabane District CouncilClimate Change Adaptation Plan 2020-2025

Executive Forward - Summary Chief Executive
Climate change is one of the most serious global threats which
affects us here in the North West. We have already seen the
impact of severe weather with a number of significant flood
events in the last decade as well as disruption from heatwaves
and storms.
As demonstrated during the COVID-19 global pandemic
councils are uniquely positioned to lead at times of crisis
adapting services and supporting local resilience where needed
most, the same is true when responding to the impacts of
climate change. We are close to our communities providing
front line services on a daily basis while planning for the
sustainable growth of our City and District.
At a time when global action is required, we in Derry City
and Strabane District Council have decided to act locally
while thinking globally. We have recently declared a Climate
Emergency, established an All Party Working Group and
developed a Climate Change Pledge committing us to climate
action.
A dedicated Climate Adaptation Working Group has taken
forward the development of our initial 5 year Climate Change
Adaptation Plan to ensure the preparedness and resilience of
Council services, operations, estate, environment, businesses
and communities. The plan also provides the opportunity to
work collaboratively with others to encourage adaptation and
influence the wider climate action agenda across Northern
Ireland.
We are at the start of our climate action journey and there is
much work to do, this Climate Change Adaptation Plan is the
first step in our commitment to ensure the Council and wider
region is prepared for and resilient to the impacts of climate
change.
I hope you will find it useful and that you will support and join
us in our efforts to tackle climate change.
Council Chief Executive
John Kelpie
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DCSDC Climate Change Adaptation Plan