CAMELFORD Town Council is looking to declare a climate emergency in order to address climate change on a local scale.

The proposal came about when deputy mayor, and Cornwall Councillor for Camelford, Rob Rotchell told the town council last Tuesday evening that they need to adopt a position to tackle the issue, following a call for paperless working.

Cllr Rotchell explained that paper is a large cost to the council and it is not environmentally friendly: “We are doing things, but what we haven’t done is adopted a position. Town and parish councils in the area are all declaring climate emergencies. I think we need to formally acknowledge that there is a climate emergency. We really need to address that fundamental step.”

Camelford Town Council have said previously that they would like to look at reducing single use plastics, and in spring created a Camelford Town Council litter pick group, in conjunction with Plastic Free Camelford. In January of this year, Cornwall Council declared a climate emergency, and hope to be carbon neutral by 2030.

Cllr Rotchell continued: “There is no requirement, it is not going to cost us a fortune. I think we need to look at adopting a climate emergency.”

However, Cllr Andy Shaw, although noting the importance of addressing this global issue, suggested that the council could be in danger of being ‘too green’, and that paperless working could exclude many residents. He said: “I think you already know my thoughts on this. Some people won’t use computers. I think the option should therefore be paper, I find it far more sensible.”

Town clerk, Esther Greig, reminded councillors that under the local government act, councils have to work with paper. She also noted that Camelford Town Council use recycled paper.

However, Cllr Rotchell said that the council should still be open to the option of going paperless where possible, with Cllr Aaron Scawn adding: “All it’s got to be is basic if it’s just for council stuff.”

Cllr Emma Grigg said a Kindle would be a good way of adopting this, and that they are a low cost to provide.

Cllr Shaw said: “I think if we’re not careful we will strangle the works of this council, because we’re in danger of being too green.”

It was recommended to resolve this matter at the next meeting.