I’d like to open this week’s column by thanking all those constituents who took the time to complete my recent transport survey, sharing their experiences of our current transport infrastructure and their ideas for future improvements. I’ll take some time now to look into the responses I have received and then work with partners such as Flintshire County Council, the Welsh Government and others, to identify solutions to better improve the transport connections in our corner of the country.

Although the survey is now closed, if there are any issues which are related to transport in the area or any other issue, then please get in touch on 01352 762 102 or at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales.

This week marks the start of the COP26 Summit in Glasgow where leaders from across the world will meet to discuss global efforts to combat climate change. The Welsh Government was the first government to declare a “Climate Emergency” in 2019 and since has taken a number of steps to continue to play it’s part.

Wales has a great track record when it comes to recycling and playing our part in reducing waste levels, with Flintshire playing a significant part in helping to reach recycling targets of over 70% by 2025. Thanks to all your efforts Wales is the top recycling nation in the UK, second best in Europe and third in the World, but there is of course always more to be done.

The Welsh Government has recently set out an action plan to reach net zero by 2050, including steps such as planting more trees, investing in renewable energy and green jobs, and building 20,000 carbon neutral homes. The plan demonstrates that we need to explore every aspect of our lives to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our environment for future generations, and covers over 120 policies and proposals.

Leader readers will know that I have always championed the thinking and actions of our communities who lead the way when it comes to tackling climate change, from Mold Plastic Reduction to ideas like the Naked Takeaway – we have much to be proud of and foundations to build back better and greener than before the pandemic.

Tackling climate change isn’t just about the here and now. It is about protecting our planet as much as possible so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.

To those future generations and our amazing teaching and school staff, I want to wish you all the best as the next half-term begins and I look forward to hearing more about the wonderful things happening in our schools in the coming weeks.