Climate Change
Page updated on: 26/03/2025
Climate change refers to the long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Small changes occur naturally but human activity is rapidly speeding up global warming which causes climate change. This is mainly caused by burning fossil fuels, like coal, oil and natural gas, which releases carbon dioxide and other harmful gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap the sun’s heat and heat up the Earth.
Climate change is affecting people worldwide in various ways, including more frequent extreme heatwaves and storms, disruptions to food systems and an increase in diseases. It's also threatening communities in Carmarthenshire, causing issues like flooding and destruction caused by various storms. Our flood defences, natural and historic environments, homes and the businesses that drive our economy are all at risk and it's only set to worsen.
We are committed to tackling climate change and acknowledge that we have a significant role to play in both reducing our own greenhouse gas emissions and providing leadership to encourage residents, businesses, and other organizations to cut their carbon footprints. We are taking a pragmatic approach towards becoming a net zero carbon local authority by 2030, initially focusing on our measurable carbon footprint. This does not preclude other wider actions to address the climate emergency, which are being carried out across Council departments.
