Cornwall’s environment – Charlotte’s candidate column (week 2)

Cornwall faces big challenges. The environment and economy go hand in hand. The issue is sustainability, not environment vs new development.

Your MP can make a difference. I will stand up for our communities, and your causes have my support.

We must protect Cornwall’s environment. Many people feel strongly about protecting animals, birds, marine, and wildlife habitats including woodlands – as well as local walks and views. Cornwall’s oldest industries (farming and mining) pollute the Fal river basin. We cannot stop rainwater carrying metal traces from old mines into rivers, but we can cut phosphate pollution.

We must tackle climate change. Internationally, we need to regain momentum to secure global agreement building on Copenhagen. As a Truro Councillor, I secured Council agreement to cut carbon emissions by 10 per cent and promote micro-generation. Cornwall’s tourist industry has great examples of sustainable businesses. We must invest in sustainable transport, and IT infrastructure to create jobs in rural locations.

We need new industries. Cornwall has a pioneering start in renewables thanks to Labour backing the University’s Environment and Sustainability Institute and wave energy development, and geothermal capacity. We need to grow Cornwall’s creative and digital industries. These are jobs for the future.