As the new cabinet member for climate action and environment, my priority is to build on our record and continue to improve everyday life across the borough.
One of our most important areas of progress has been in buildings and energy.
Since 2022, this administration has focused on improving the energy efficiency of council homes and public buildings, securing external funding to retrofit properties and reduce energy use.
This work cuts carbon emissions, but it also lowers bills, improves comfort, and tackles fuel poverty — a clear example of how climate action and social justice go hand in hand.
Transport and air quality remain central to our approach.
Over the past three years, this administration has expanded measures to support walking, cycling, and cleaner travel, alongside investment in safer streets and public realm improvements.
These changes are about protecting health, particularly for children and older residents, and addressing the reality that air pollution remains one of the most unequal environmental threats in the borough.
Since 2022, we have also strengthened our focus on nature and resilience.
Haringey has continued to invest record amounts in parks, tree planting, and biodiversity, recognising green spaces as essential infrastructure rather than optional extras.
As climate impacts such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall become more frequent, protecting and enhancing our natural environment is critical to keeping communities safe and well.
A key lesson for me since being elected as a councillor is that climate action must be done in partnership with residents, not to them.
This administration has worked increasingly closely with community groups, schools, and local organisations to support grassroots action and ensure policies reflect lived experience.
This collaborative approach will remain a priority.
I am also committed to being honest about the challenges we face.
Since 2010, councils across the country have been under extreme financial pressure, limiting the pace and scale of what can be delivered locally.
While Haringey will continue to lead where we can, national government must provide the funding and powers required to meet the scale of the climate emergency.
Climate action is not a slogan or a single project. It is sustained, practical work to build a healthier, fairer, and more resilient borough.
This Haringey administration has made real progress. My focus now is on deepening that work – and ensuring it continues to deliver for residents in every part of our borough.
- Cllr Ibrahim Ali is Cabinet member for Climate Action and Environment at Haringey Council.
