Local politicians set out their commitments on climate change when they met with members of the public last weekend.

Chipping Barnet MP Theresa Villiers and Brunswick Park councillor Lisa Rutter discussed ways of protecting the environment at an Action on Climate Change event at St John’s Church, New Barnet, on Saturday (September 8).

The event included several local charities, stalls and talks by campaigners.

Attending on behalf of the mayor, Cllr Rutter gave a speech on the borough’s climate change and plastic waste disposal policies.

She said: “We have had a wonderful summer, but obviously things are not as they used to be. Scientists agree the temperature of the earth is rising.

“The good news is that people, communities, cities, businesses, schools, faith groups and other organisations are taking action.”

Cllr Rutter explained the council had brought in an emissions-based system for parking permits, under which the most polluting vehicles are charged the most and people with electric cars pay nothing.

It has also rolled out a parking permit surcharge for diesel vehicles and is installing around 50 electric charge points for cars around the borough.

Cllr Rutter added that protecting Barnet’s green spaces from developers was a key part of the climate change battle.

She said: “Investing in trees, wetlands and green space is vital, given the changing climate.

“Trees not only contribute to the overall aesthetics of our towns and cities, but research has highlighted that the presence of trees is associated with a range of crucial benefits to our health and wellbeing.”

Ms Villiers also gave a talk about the government’s record on helping the environment.

She said the government had helped to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 22 per cent since 2010 and pointed out that nearly 20 per cent of the UK’s electricity now comes from clean, renewable sources.

Ms Villiers said: “Climate change is happening right now, and tackling it is one of the most important global challenges we face.

“It was good to attend this event, meet people who are passionate about saving the planet, and set out some thoughts and figures on what the government has been doing to help.

“There is much to do, and we cannot do it alone. Therefore, the Paris Agreement on climate change is very important.

“I’m pleased the UK was a major player in securing that global deal, working closely with other like-minded countries to deliver this crucial breakthrough.”