Two Powys County Councillors are set to call for action on the county's natural environment during a meeting of full council today (September 23).

A motion by Liberal Democrat councillors Jake Berriman (Llandrindod North) and Jackie Charlton (Llangattock) will call for the council to declare an 'ecological emergency', which would see the council take steps to protect the county’s biodiversity and wildlife.

Last year, the council declared a 'climate emergency' and Cllr Berriman says this declaration would go hand in hand with commitments made last year.

"We are running out of time to address the twin emergencies, climate and ecological, that threaten the survival of our civilization and way of life," he said.

"This summer we have seen horrific wildfires in Russia, America, Greece and Turkey and catastrophic flooding in China, Afghanistan, Belgium and Germany, and flooding is affecting Powys communities with increased frequency and severity.

"However, climate change cannot be mitigated and halted if we ignore the unfolding and intertwined ecological disaster.

"The State of Radnorshire Wildlife (2017) report shows a loss of 40 local plant species, 95% of our native eel population, and 63% of Welsh butterflies. The ecological crisis must not be forgotten. We must act now."

The motion will call on the council to declare an ecological emergency to demonstrate the Council's commitment to protecting Powys' natural environment, biodiversity and wildlife, and also calls on the council to express support for the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill, initially presented to Parliament in September 2020.

The Bill asks the UK to take responsibility for its fair share of greenhouse gas emissions, to actively restore biodiverse habitats, and to stop damage to the environment through the production, transportation, and disposal of consumable goods.

Cllr Jackie Charlton, who is seconding the motion set to be put before full council today, added:

"Powys County Councillors have shown admirable leadership in recognising the Climate Emergency and committing to reach a carbon net zero target in the delivery of Council services by 2030.

"We can and must be just as bold in tackling the Ecological Emergency.

"Our two Conservative MPs must also step up to the plate and do their part by voting for the CEE Bill. Our motion asks the Council to send an official letter urging them to do so."