City of London wins Beacon Status

Published|31.03.08

The City of London Corporation has been awarded Beacon Status by the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA) for its efforts in tackling climate change. The judges were particularly impressed by the City’s efforts to engage the business community, and the City’s pioneering climate change adaptation strategy – Rising to the Challenge – which Acclimatise was commissioned to develop in consultation with stakeholders.

The City of London is the first local authority in the UK to commission a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, which aims to help prepare the Square Mile for the likely effects of climate change, including risks relating to flooding, water resources, heat, air pollution and ground conditions.

Simon Mills, Environmental Co-ordinator at the City of London, said: “My team and I are delighted with this award, which not only validates our hard work in addressing the issue of climate change, but also the contribution made by our partner organisations, who had the foresight to work with us before the term ‘climate change’ became common currency.”

Michael Snyder, Policy Chairman at the City of London, said: “Climate change has the potential to pose a real threat to the environment and quality of life of the 340,000 business workers and 9,000 residents in the City of London. This award, which showcases excellence in local government, is a fantastic achievement and illustrates our commitment to tackling these vital issues.”

Richenda Connell, Acclimatise CTO and co-founder said “We are very pleased to have been involved in this exciting project. The leadership shown by the City of London has received the recognition it deserves.”

A copy of the City of London’s Adaptation Strategy (Rising to the Challenge) is available for download from our resources section.

If you would like to hear more about Acclimatise’s work helping major organisations and businesses manage the risks and opportunities from inevitable climate change then please contact us.