‘Keeping up with COP26’: How we’re responding to the COP26 agenda in the Humber
The United Nations’ (UN) annual climate change conference, COP26, is now underway. The summit has set out its key aims, it’s now up to us to fulfil these targets and ‘turn the tide’ before it’s too late.
How is Lagoon Hull contributing?
Lagoon is so much more than a six-mile causeway. Its potential is huge, as we look to create a scheme that will:
· create an outer harbour
· provide flood defences
· reduce traffic congestion
· support the creation of port facilities
· reimagine Hull’s waterside living space
And importantly, it will unlock the Humber region’s true sustainable potential, supporting COP26’s aims. Here’s how…
Aim one:
secure global net zero carbon emissions by mid-century and keep the target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees within reach
The Humber region produces the highest amount of carbon emissions of any UK industrial cluster. So, decarbonising the Humber is crucial if we’re going to reach the UK’s – and COP26’s - 2050 target. We have no choice but to deliver Lagoon if we’re going to unlock the region’s true renewable energy potential.
Electric and hydrogen vehicles are the future and through improved infrastructure, we’re well on our way to fully embedding this tech into our transport network. Lagoon will create a wholly new approach to traffic flow in and around Hull. But this network also extends to creating more opportunities for walking, cycling and public transport – all of which will be supported by Lagoon.
It has been designed to unlock numerous sustainable opportunities in Hull and the wider region that are in line with the top item on the COP26 agenda. The creation of new green space and sustainable placemaking are central to project plans for Lagoon.
Aim two:
encourage attendees to protect communities and habitats from climate change
Protecting and restoring our native ecosystems in the Humber is incredibly important. We’re developing relationships with relevant stakeholders to establish a safe and sustainable design that preserves our delicate ecosystem.
Of course, Lagoon’s central focus is to provide flood protection, keeping our communities safe against rising sea levels. The potential of a ‘lagoon structure’ has now been assessed by three independent bodies – the Environment Agency, the University of Hull and environmental specialists ABPmer – all of which agree that the creation of Lagoon would be unlikely to lead to raised water levels in other parts of the estuary.
What’s next?
In summary, COP26 is a springboard for change, but its objectives require communities, regions, countries and ultimately the entire world to come together to make meaningful changes. By encouraging and promoting sustainable innovation, the Humber region will be able to join this revolution.