Reform UK is attempting to abolish Kent County Council’s climate emergency declaration, arguing it has had no effect on the climate and is stifling debate. They are also advocating to eliminate the council’s 2030 net zero emissions target. Opposition councillors have condemned the motion as “anti-science” and dangerous, citing recent climate data showing 2024 is set to be the hottest year on record. Green councillor Stuart Jeffery highlighted the local impacts of climate change, while Liberal Democrat leader Antony Hook criticized the denial of the climate emergency as political vandalism. The motion has backing from the Conservatives and UKIP, both of whom have ties to fossil fuel interests. If passed, Kent would join other councils that have discarded their net zero goals.

