Aberystwyth Town Council has become the latest to declare a climate and biodiversity emergency.

Last week members of the community met with the mayor to discuss what action can be taken following the declaration.

The declaration was prompted by an online petition issued by the Aberystwyth branch of the Extinction Rebellion campaign network, and councillors were quick to support the idea.

Aberystwyth mayor Cllr Talat Chaudhri said: “I am deeply concerned about the inactivity of governments worldwide in combating climate change and loss of biodiversity, which will severely affect our ability to provide sufficient food, water and land for people in future.

“I believe that all small towns like Aberystwyth should declare a climate and biodiversity emergency in order to put pressure on the higher levels of government who should be doing more.

“I am delighted that Aberystwyth Town Council voted unanimously to pass my motion.

“We must all do everything we can to combat climate change and loss of biodiversity.”

Sian Stacey, of Aberystwyth Extinction Rebellion, said: “I’m from rural west Wales and have been lucky enough to live surrounded by nature on a farm over the last three years before moving to Aber.

“I’ve seen a drop in birds and insects and it’s hard to avoid the rise in temperatures and plastic pollution.

“I want to start a family but I’m worried how safe it will be for them and their children.

“It’s great to see the town council taking steps towards protecting our future. It’s major change at government level we need to help us all.”

For more information, go to the Extinction Rebellion Aberystwyth group on Facebook or email [email protected]. The group meets at 7pm every Wednesday in the Cwps, Aberystwyth.

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