Green Economy
We are living at a time of climate crisis, and as stewards of the planet, we need to take action. The next few decades are likely to see radical changes to how we work, live and do business. As well as challenges, the pandemic crisis presents us with real opportunities. We can create a society that is greener and fairer, economies that are more sustainable and cities that are better places to live. Whether that's green transport, protecting and enhancing green spaces or building better homes, there are changes that we can make that will improve the quality of life of everyone.
Kam has an inspiring vision for a green, healthy and sustainable city. Here we answer some of the key questions that Londoners have about Renew's green policies for the capital.
Will London be greener?
We are living at a time of climate crisis, and as stewards of the planet, we need to take action. The next few decades are likely to see radical changes to how we work, live and do business. As well as challenges, the pandemic crisis presents us with real opportunities. We can create a society that is greener and fairer, economies that are more sustainable and cities that are better places to live. Whether that's green transport, protecting and enhancing green spaces or building better homes, there are changes that we can make that will improve the quality of life of everyone. Kam has an inspiring vision for a green, healthy and sustainable city. Here we answer some of the key questions that Londoners have about Renew's green policies for the capital. We believe that London can be the world's greenest city. By protecting green spaces, promoting public transport, developing the circular economy and investing in new technology we can protect the environment and improve the lives of Londoners. We'll put green growth and sustainability at the heart of London's New Economy, creating new green jobs and a healthier, more beautiful city for everyone. The environment isn't an afterthought for Kam and Renew, it informs everything we do.
Will Kam protect London's parks and green spaces?
Our city is one of the greenest on the planet, but our precious parks and green spaces are under threat. As mayor, Kam will make it more difficult for developers to build on green spaces, encouraging brownfield developments, and the refurbishment of existing property to meet new needs. Parks are vital lungs in the heart of the city. They help clean the air and provide a space for exercise and relaxation. Being exposed to green spaces every day is good for our mental wellbeing, and everyone should have a park or green space they can enjoy within easy walking distance of their home. We envisage beautiful city streets with more trees.
Will Kam plant more trees?
Wherever possible, we will work to create new parks and public green spaces, particularly in parts of the city where green spaces have been lost to over-development. By the end of Kam's term of leadership, we will create more public green spaces than there were at the beginning. We will encourage applications from communities for new greenbelt areas.
Will Kam encourage eco-friendly businesses?
A green recovery will be at the heart of our economic strategy. We will look to incentivise green businesses and encourage green start-ups. We'll encourage innovation to reduce waste and the development of a circular economy where resources are re-used. We'll back new, well-paid green jobs, and give people the skills they need to take advantage of them. We will also strengthen the local planning process so that it facilitates the creation of low and ultimately carbon-free, sustainable places, that support the circular economy. Developments will have to take account of this vision, be coherent with local plans, and build on existing green infrastructure. Moreover, London has higher rates of public transport use than the rest of the country, but we can go further. We'll ensure that public transport is convenient, affordable and well-integrated, making it the easiest and most affordable travel option anywhere in the city.
Will Kam protect London's greenbelt?
Protecting the greenbelt is a key priority for Kam. It is a precious asset that prevents the city from sprawling into the countryside, creating disconnected and resource-hungry settlements. We will toughen up the protection of the greenbelt and restrict development. We want London's green lung to still contain places to escape, breathe and enjoy.
What about the Father Thames?
London is blessed with a network of rivers, canals and wetlands. People live on these waterways, work beside them and use them for recreation. While there has been some improvement in water quality in some of our rivers and canals, this has not gone far enough. We also think that the Thames is underinvested and underappreciated. We will work with stakeholders to get the Thames to a high standard of cleanliness and biodiversity.
We hope you're inspired by our positive vision for a Green London in a Green World. A time of challenge can also be one of opportunity. There's no contradiction between a prosperous city and a sustainable one.
What is Kam's stance on plastic water bottle use?
In order to tackle single-use plastic water bottle use in the capital, and protect London’s cherished blue and green spaces and our connected ocean from harmful pollution, commitments must be made to promote London as a city leading the charge to eliminate unnecessary single-use plastic; ensure sufficient and equal access to public refill points in London; and eradicate single-use plastic water bottles in GLA buildings and support London businesses to do the same.
