In the news: Leading councillor pledges to go meat-free this January to reduce carbon emissions
A leading councillor has made the New Year's resolution to go vegetarian for the month of January to make an impact on climate change.
Chairman of the Leisure and Environment Committee Councillor Craig Rimmer has been inspired by the council's Small Changes, Big Impact Climate Change Campaign.
Popular local restaurant, Wagamama, on the Festival Leisure Park backed the campaign, which aims to help the borough reach carbon net-zero status by 2050.
Cllr Rimmer said: "I met with staff at the restaurant to discuss how Wagamama is changing the way it operates to reduce its carbon emissions.
"I was really impressed with what I saw, heard and tasted and it inspired me to make my own small changes pledge to go meat-free this January.
"To make a big impact we can all make small changes and having tried some of the vegan and vegetarian options on their menu I realised it was something I could do to make a difference."
The council is working to become carbon net-zero by 2030 as well as looking to help residents and businesses contribute to the 2050 target of making the whole borough carbon net-zero.
Wagamama announced its new vegetarian menu in October and already boasts a menu that is 50% meat free.
To find out more about the campaign and make a climate change pledge visit Climate Change Basildon 2030