Statement clarifying Worcestershire County Council Cabinet’s position on climate change issued on behalf of Councillor Karl Perks, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport.

"Yes, we absolutely believe in climate change. As a Cabinet and as a party, we recognise that human activity has played a significant role in accelerating it.

However, in response to the question raised by Councillor Jenkins at Full Council on 10 July: No, I do not personally believe that we are the sole cause of climate change. The Earth has experienced climate fluctuations throughout its history, long before industrialisation. That said, it’s undeniable that our actions, especially during and after the Industrial Revolution, have had a major impact, including contributing to issues like ozone depletion.

Today, the UK accounts for around 0.7% of global emissions. The majority of emissions now come from larger, industrialised and rapidly developing nations. While we must acknowledge our historic role, we must also recognise that our future approach must be both realistic and fair.

The goal of net zero is important and necessary but we believe the current timeline is too aggressive and risks placing disproportionate burdens on our most vulnerable communities and struggling businesses. We cannot ask them to shoulder the costs of transition while failing to hold larger global emitters to the same standards.

Until viable, accessible alternatives to fossil fuels exist at scale, progress will be limited. We risk continuing down a path driven more by profit and politics than by practical, inclusive solutions.

As a county and as a Cabinet, we remain committed to supporting the climate agenda - but we will do so with a balanced, community-first approach that e-nsures economic resilience, protects livelihoods, and delivers genuine, lasting change."