Recently, I met with a campaigner from the Norwich Friends of the Earth (FoE) group. We discussed FoE’s campaign for the UK government to pass a law (an Environmental Rights Act) that recognises the right to a healthy environment as a human right. This would give local communities a powerful tool to legally hold companies accountable for environmental harm.

The campaigner also emphasised that while the Climate Change Act of 2008 was an important step, more is needed in the face of today’s climate challenges. In May 2025, the government will have to publish its new climate plan. Norwich FoE says we need a new ‘Big and Bold’ Climate Plan to ensure the UK meets its climate goals and commitments and improves people’s lives through lower energy bills, warm homes, clean air, better public transport, and well-paid green jobs.

I fully support calls for stronger action on the climate and environment crises and, like FoE, believe that communities must be empowered to take action for themselves.