The Essex Climate Action Commission, an independent group launched in 2020 to help the county reach net zero, is pausing most of its work after Essex County Council cut administrative and staff support. The council, now run by Reform UK, plans to step back from the commission by the end of July. The commission had a 100-point action plan and had already delivered 64 actions, including new building regulations for energy efficient homes and low-carbon school buildings. The council says it will still work on water quality, air quality, nature recovery, and flood resilience, but the commission's chair says the pause will cut back activities substantially. The decision follows the council leader's earlier promise to end what he called 'net stupid zero' policies, claiming 3 million pounds in savings. Critics including local councillors and the Bishop of Colchester warn the move could cost the county jobs and investment in clean energy. The commission's 100-point plan was designed to make Essex carbon neutral, and supporters say pausing it undermines progress on low-carbon buildings and renewable energy projects. The council says it is reviewing priorities but will continue some environmental work.
