Here is your forecast:

Average temperatures today in Hertfordshire are 1.3 degrees above pre-industrial levels, and the long-term forecast is that average temperatures will be another 1.7 degrees warmer by the end of the Century.   

We are seeing an increased number of recognised heatwaves, and climate systems are producing consequential effects which stretch the insurance industry, with increased risk of garden and house fires, subsidence, storm damage, flooding and heat damage.

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service already witnesses the effects of this interim increase in summer heat and the increasing risk to life from heavy rainfall events interacting with parched ground to manifest flash floods. Children in our schools’ struggle to focus on learning. Our school crossing patrols report putting their clothes in the freezer before going out for the hot afternoon session. We are seeing people, businesses and nature attempting to adapt to symptoms and as Leaders we should address the cause. Even if not yet a Statutory Duty, addressing climate change is a moral duty.

Hertfordshire, the County of Opportunity, stands at a crossroads on its journey towards a greener, fairer and more resilient future. The Sustainable Hertfordshire Strategy and Principles for 2026–2028 mark a renewed commitment to environmental leadership, community empowerment and prudent strategic action in response to the climate and ecological risk expectations we face.

This refreshed framework builds on the foundations laid since the County Council’s consensus climate emergency declaration in 2019, aligning with the optimistic “can-do” vision set out in our new Corporate Plan: Building a sustainable, inclusive and thriving Hertfordshire. It reflects the values of the Liberal Democrat administration - inclusion, sustainability and collaboration - and translates them into practical, measurable actions that will benefit every resident, business and community across the county.

Our shared principles, consistent with our values, are designed to be ambitious yet achievable. They embed sustainability into every aspect of county council operations from governance and finance to fleet management, planning and public engagement. They also recognise the importance of partnership working, empowering communities, and preparing for the challenges of climate change through adaptation and resilience.

We are proud to present a strategy that not only addresses carbon reduction, promotes circular economy and healthier air practices but also actively supports nature recovery, and equitable access to green spaces. It is a strategy that puts people and justice at its heart; supporting those most in need, engaging young voices, and ensuring that every resident has an opportunity to thrive in a county that is prepared for the future.

As we plan for Local Government Reorganisation and the opportunities it brings, this strategy highlights Hertfordshire as a leader in sustainable transformation. It is a call to action for all of us officers, members, partners and residents to work together to deliver leadership with foresight.

Let us move forward with purpose, guided by evidence, inspired by community, and impelled by principles, united in our challenge to make Hertfordshire a place where sustainability is not just an ambition, but a way of life.

Cllr Adrian England

Executive Member for Sustainability     

And

Cllr Steve Javis

Leader of the Council