Calls to Limit Political Campaign Leaflets to Two Annually to Reduce Environmental Impact

A push is underway in Bath and North East Somerset to limit the distribution of political campaign leaflets to just two per year, aiming to reduce environmental harm caused by excessive paper use.

Independent and Conservative councillors on Bath and North East Somerset Council have jointly proposed a motion to curb leaflet distribution ahead of next year’s local elections. The initiative focuses on minimizing the environmental footprint of political campaigning amid increasingly urgent climate concerns.

Shaun Hughes, leader of the Independent Group representing Midsomer Norton North, emphasized the need for leadership in protecting the planet: “With a declared climate emergency, it is crucial that local politicians set an example. Political groups must take responsibility for the environmental consequences of their actions.”

Conservative councillor Tim Warren of Midsomer Norton Redfield acknowledged that although this is not official national Conservative policy, it is a sensible local measure. He reflected on the past practices, saying, “I have been as guilty as anyone else in the past, but with modern communication tools like social media, there are better ways to connect with voters. The amount of paper used today is staggering and unnecessary.”

The motion highlights Bath and North East Somerset Council’s commitment to a climate emergency strategy that includes reducing avoidable paper consumption. It notes the significant volume of printed campaign materials produced during election periods, contributing to environmental degradation despite paper often being recycled. Energy usage in producing recycled paper remains substantial, making reduction the priority within the “reduce-reuse-recycle” framework.

Recognizing the role leaflets play in reaching digitally excluded populations, the motion calls on all political group leaders to formally request their parties limit paper usage and restrict leaflet distribution to no more than two physical mailings annually.

While motions are non-binding, this proposal when debated in the full council meeting will express a clear direction for political campaigning to become more environmentally conscious. The current council makeup includes 39 Liberal Democrat councillors forming the majority, alongside five Independents and two Conservatives. Notably, Ann Morgan of High Littleton recently moved from the Liberal Democrats to the Independent Group, highlighting some shifting alliances ahead of upcoming elections.