Residents across Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire are being asked to have their say on how local councils tackle climate change and protect nature over the coming years.
South Cambridgeshire District Council and Cambridge City Council have launched a joint survey to shape their new climate and nature strategies, which will guide environmental work through to 2026 and beyond.
The councils have set out ambitious visions for cleaner air and rivers, thriving nature, and communities better prepared for climate change impacts. Residents have until early November to share their views on priorities and actions.
The survey is open until 9 November for Cambridge residents and 5 November for South Cambridgeshire residents. Responses from both surveys will be analysed together and shared with both councils.
Cllr Rosy Moore, Cabinet Member for Climate and Environment at Cambridge City Council, said the city had been actively tackling climate change since 2007. “Every action we take together makes a difference for the future and improves lives today – whether that’s bringing down energy bills, cleaner air, more green spaces for people to enjoy, or supporting the creation of new green jobs,” she said.
Cambridge’s emissions have fallen by 47.3% since 2005, while the council’s own emissions have dropped by 51.9% since 2014/15.
Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, Lead Cabinet Member for Environment for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said tackling climate change offered health benefits for residents. “In South Cambridgeshire, being ‘Green to our Core’ is more than a slogan, it’s a commitment embedded in everything we do,” she said.
Shared climate initiatives
The councils share several services and are working together on climate projects including switching bin lorries from diesel to electric, installing solar panels at the shared waste depot, and developing planning policies that support low-carbon development.
Cambridge City Council aims to increase tree canopy cover from 17% to 20% by 2050, while South Cambridgeshire plans to double land managed for nature from 7% to 14% by the same date.
Both councils are targeting Net Zero for their own operations by 2030. South Cambridgeshire is also working towards a 50% reduction in district-wide emissions by 2030 ahead of reaching Net Zero by 2050.
Other planned actions include installing more electric vehicle charging points, helping taxis switch to zero-emission vehicles, retrofitting homes to reduce energy bills, and supporting local food networks.
The final strategies are expected to be published in March 2026, subject to approval by council cabinet members.
Residents can complete the survey online at cambridge.gov.uk or southcambs.gov.uk. Paper copies are available by calling 01954 713 000 or emailing communications@cambridge.gov.uk.