Cllr Gail Coleshill (Lib Dem, Peasedown St John) who put climate change on the agenda said;

"Climate change is the biggest environmental threat we face and will impact on everyone. Tonight's debate was just a small step and we must continue to work to provide local leadership in combating climate change."

The Liberal Democrats called on local MPs to back two crucial Bills, before the House of Commons November 11th, calling on the government to cut CO2 emissions by encouraging microgeneration, the generation of energy by householders, and more sustainable building.

Cllr Coleshill said;

"Bath & NE Somerset Council has been at the forefront of many environmental issues and there is no reason why we shouldn't continue to lead the way. Microgeneration opportunities already exist here. For example heat generation from the by products of organic waste involving Hinton organics and Radstock firm Charlton Wood have a plan for producing energy from wood chippings. There are Mills and watercourses within Bath and North East Somerset with the potential for water turbines. Is it so improbable to think of a turbine in the Avon at Keynsham which would power the Council offices?"

Since 1997 carbon emissions have risen by over 5%, despite government target of annual 1% reductions. Microgeneration would improve the UK's position in achieving its Kyoto target to cut emissions to 12.5% below 1990 levels by 2008-12.

Cllr Roger Symonds a supporter of the motion commented; "It is vital for politicians, locally, nationally and internationally to acknowledge the severity of the climate change problem and take action now. I was appalled by the Tory's failure to recognise the crisis that is before us, how could they turn their backs on a call to combat climate change? The Tories clearly don't have a clue about sustainability.

"We, the Liberal Democrats and the Council, have sent a clear message to government that we want action."