Glastonbury's Plan for Climate Action

Glastonbury residents have collaborated with the Somerset Wildlife Trust to create a tailored plan aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change on their community. This initiative marks the first of its kind in the region, focusing on helping local areas adapt to future environmental changes. The plan, developed in conjunction with the town council, emphasizes key strategies such as increasing tree planting, installing green roofs and walls, and enhancing flood resilience. Natalie Barnett, the climate adaptation officer at Somerset Wildlife Trust, highlighted the vulnerability of the area due to its low-lying coastal geography, which makes it particularly susceptible to flooding. She expressed optimism that the new plan would not only strengthen community resilience but also promote biodiversity in the region. The initiative comes in response to the government's acknowledgment of climate change's effects, aiming to prepare communities for potential extreme weather events. Mike Stanton, chair of the Somerset Rivers Authority, underscored the increasing intensity and unpredictability of floods across Somerset, attributing these changes to climate change. He described the plan as a comprehensive effort that addresses various aspects of the town, from ponds to public facilities. Stanton encouraged community involvement, emphasizing the importance of collective action in tackling climate challenges. In addition to Glastonbury, the Somerset Wildlife Trust is also developing similar plans for neighboring towns, including Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, and Minehead, as part of a broader strategy to enhance climate resilience across the region.