Climate and Nature Bill called 'golden opportunity' by MP Roz Savage
The Lib Dem, who was voted into the role earlier this year, was chosen by random ballot to raise a Private Members Bill
The new MP for South Cotswolds - a constituency which was only formed ahead of the latest General Election - is calling her chance to revive a proposed law as a 'golden opportunity' to bring together representatives from across the political spectrum.
Earlier this month, Dr Roz Savage announced her intention to address the environmental emergency with the revival of the Climate and Nature Bill, in what is being described as 'a chance to make history'.
The Liberal Democrat, who has been an environmental campaigner for two decades, tells us she wants to see 'real action' - adding her proposal to bring in the Climate and Nature Act 'won't be easy', but it's a chance for politicians to step in 'before it's too late'.
There are three 'Pillars' to this proposed law, which would aim to compel the UK Government to tackle the climate emergency.
These aims would instruct us to:
- Make sure the UK cuts its emissions fairly and fully to stand the best chance of keeping 1.5°C alive
- Make sure the UK reverses the destruction of nature by 2030
- Involve citizens in deciding the fairest way forward
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, Roz, who has rowed solo across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans to raise awareness about the climate and ecological emergency told us: "This Bill is so important in looking at creating a cross-Parliament approach to fulfil our obligations that we've already signed up to - because we're simply not doing enough.
"This is a science-backed Bill, and a science-led framework which includes the public.
"After all, the three pillars to this piece of proposed legislation are all about the climate, our nature... and people.
"Whether we are looking at this through the lens of being a customer, every time we buy something, or throw something away, we are casting a vote for the kind of thing we want in our future.
"I really think that every single thing that we do does make a difference - and I've learnt that myself rowing in places all around the world.
"These differences might not feel big, or tangible - but they really are.
"We really need change at every level, and for me, the good news is, with this people-led approach, I genuinely believe we can bring the people along with us.
"Actually, it's essential that we do.
"People might say that we've already got quite a bit of legislation in place, but what's really special is that this would create a joined-up strategy which we can all get behind."
Adding her reasons for choosing this Bill to raise in Parliament, Roz added: "Now that I’m in Westminster, I intend to do everything I can to get to the root causes of the intertwined climate-nature crisis we face.
"We need the strongest possible laws to meet this challenge, head on. That’s why I was so keen to put my name into the Private Members’ Bill ballot last month. When I came third in that lottery, I knew that there was legislation ready to go that has the potential to be the game-changer we need: the Climate and Nature Bill.
"This won’t be easy. But (as a former US President once said) we choose to do this because this challenge is one that we are willing to accept."
The introduction of this Bill to Parliament comes as she reflects on her first 100 days in Parliament.
Roz said: “I’ve had an incredibly rewarding first 100 days as the South Cotswolds Member of Parliament, and my team and I are proud of what we’ve been able to achieve so far. From taking action on GP surgeries, to supporting communities faced with inappropriate planning proposals for oversized solar farms like Lime Down, or inappropriate development like gravel extraction in Ashton Keynes, we’ve been working hard to support people in every corner of our amazing constituency. And we’re still just getting started.
“I’m looking forward to getting real and lasting positive change for our area. Tackling flooding and water pollution and protecting biodiversity here and further afield are among my top priorities. I’m honoured to be doing my bit to build a better, brighter future for the people and communities of the South Cotswolds– championing key local issues all year round, not just at election time.”
You can find out more about the Bill on the zerohour website - and on the UK Parliament pages.