Even if you don’t see yourself as an environmentalist, I am very interested to hear your views and concerns about climate change.

I am organising a series of events to speak to as many Bristol West residents as possible about the climate crisis. It will also be an opportunity for you to bring up your thoughts, ideas and questions which I can take to the government, as your MP.

The series of public meetings this summer will take place in the run-up to the COP26 summit in Glasgow in November, which aims to be the most important meeting yet on finding an international solution to the crisis.

The first public event will take place online at 6-7.30pm on 27 July:

What does Bristol think about climate change? Public meeting with Thangam Debbonaire MP.

I want to hear from as many Bristolians as possible. We will all be affected by the climate emergency, as temperatures are already rising here in the UK too. And we will be affected by the solutions – the UK’s national target of ‘net zero’ emissions will mean changes to the way we travel, heat our homes or the food we eat.

So far the government response has been completely inadequate. A recent report from the independent Committee on Climate Change found that “this defining year for the UK’s climate credentials has been marred by uncertainty and delay”. As the report says, “with every month of inaction, it is harder for the UK to get on track.” I will be pushing them to do better, including in my work as Shadow Leader of the House of Commons.

As hosts of the COP26 summit, we have a one-time opportunity to demonstrate what is possible. When world leaders come to the UK, I want them to see our country as a shining example of how cutting emissions will also make our lives healthier and better in other ways. Sadly, the government’s slow progress right now gives us little to boast about.

Nonetheless, our corner of the UK does give me hope. As the only city in the UK to win European Green Capital status, Bristol has been recognised as one of the most progressive, environmentally conscious cities in Europe. And Bristol is home to many leading environmental organisations, some cutting edge projects and world-leading experts.

I hope to take Bristol’s ideas and inspiration to challenging government in these critical months. Please join me at this event – and watch this space for news of more events over the summer and autumn.

What does Bristol think about climate change? Public meeting with Thangam Debbonaire MP will take place at 6-7.30pm on 27 July on Tuesday 27 July 2021.