Campaigning on the environment • Webinar and Q&A

This year local authorities across the country have to grapple with the consequences of high inflation and energy bills on residents, businesses and local services. Councillors' focus will be on easing cost of living pressures on residents, who face growing household bills, and saving taxpayers' money to balance the books while continuing to deliver frontline services.

With tight budgets and considerable challenges ahead, environmental action may seem like a distraction. But green policies can help to lower residents' and councils' bills alike, improve public health, and grow the local economy. Whether it's by insulating homes and public buildings, installing rooftop solar and electric car chargers, or improving green spaces and access to nature, action on the environment can deliver residents’ priorities. But how can councillors implement these changes locally, and how will these improvements benefit residents?

Panellists include:

• Aphra Brandreth, Conservative activist, Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Women’s Organisation, former councillor, and co-host of the Commonwealth Poetry podcast.
• Cllr Holly Whitbread, Deputy Member for health and social care on Essex County Council, Cabinet Member for housing and community on Epping Forest Council, non-metropolitan   district representative on the CCA Board, and CEN councillor.
• Anthony Lee, Director of Campaigning at the Conservative Party HQ
• Caitie Gillett, Clean Air Programme Manager at CEN (Chair)