Cornwall Seeks Government Support for Net Zero and Nature Recovery Goals

Cornwall’s cabinet member for environment and climate change, Martyn Alvey, has reached out to the government, urging for support to achieve the region’s ambitious net zero and nature recovery targets. Alvey has addressed letters to newly appointed energy security and net zero secretary, Ed Miliband, and environment, food and rural affairs secretary, Steve Reed, highlighting Cornwall’s potential and the pressing challenges it faces.

In his letter to Ed Miliband, Martyn Alvey emphasised Cornwall’s crucial role in supporting the Labour government’s clean energy objectives. He pointed out that Cornwall’s renewable energy sector aligns perfectly with the government’s goals to reduce bills, create jobs, and deliver zero-carbon electricity by 2030.

Renewable Energy Growth and Challenges

Cornwall has made significant strides in renewable energy generation, with 37% of its electricity coming from renewable sources. The region also leads in domestic renewable energy adoption, with over 15% of households equipped with MCS certified installations, such as solar panels, heat pumps, and battery storage.

However, Alvey warned that the limited capacity of the energy grid is a major obstacle to further growth. This issue, he noted, jeopardises both Cornwall’s and the UK’s net zero transition. He called for collaboration with the government, the new Mission Control centre, and Great British Energy to support the region’s growth and clean energy ambitions.

Local Area Energy Plan and Green Jobs

Alvey requested support for the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Area Energy Plan, which aims to expand renewable energy, enhance energy security, and create more green sector jobs. He stressed the importance of overcoming the energy grid capacity issue to unlock the full potential of Cornwall’s renewable energy sector.

Nature Recovery and Environmental Protection

In his letter to Steve Reed, Martyn Alvey outlined how Cornwall can aid the government in improving water quality, boosting food security, ensuring nature’s recovery, and protecting communities from flooding. Cornwall’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes, including National Landscapes and UNESCO Mining World Heritage Sites, underscore the region’s commitment to integrating nature into economic resilience and cultural identity.

Leading in Nature Recovery Efforts

Cornwall has been proactive in nature recovery, serving as a pilot area for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy and the Local Investment in Natural Capital programme. The region recently launched the Natural Capital Exchange to attract private investment in nature recovery projects. Additionally, the Defra-funded Woodland Creation Partnership with the Forest for Cornwall has planted one million trees since 2019.

Alvey urged the Defra secretary to support a nature recovery delivery pilot to accelerate the implementation of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. He also called for a review of the current capital funding mechanism, which hinders small rural communities in Cornwall from accessing essential flood interventions.

Cornwall’s appeal for government support highlights the region’s potential to contribute significantly to the UK’s net zero and nature recovery goals. With the right backing, Cornwall could become a model for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship.