PLANS to invest a further £1.2m in the battle against climate change have been approved by Hampshire County Council.

The package of measures drawn up by the authority includes a proposal to run some of its vehicles on eco-friendly biofuel.

Tree planting, improving natural habitats and installing energy efficient technology in public buildings are also on the agenda.

The strategy was agreed at a meeting of the council’s cabinet and forms part of the authority’s commitment to become carbon neutral by 2050.

Cllr Rob Humby, executive lead member for economy, transport and the environment, said: “Hampshire County Council has set out a clear action plan to tackle the climate emergency.

“This package of measures will help us further drive down carbon emissions across our corporate fleet, make public buildings more energy efficient and help our natural environment become more resilient to the impacts of rising temperatures.

“Our activities can also play an important role in supporting the growth of the green economy in Hampshire which will be so important as we recover from the impact of Covid-19.”

Some of the council’s vehicles will start running on biofuel later in the summer.

A new seed propagation unit at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey will grow and nurture plants that may be at risk due to rising temperatures.

The authority is also planning to transform River Hamble Country Park into what it describes as a carbon-friendly destination.

Cllr Jan Warwick, executive member for climate change and sustainability, said: “This money is going to support 18 fantastic schemes that will pilot and develop new ideas and greener technologies.

“Benefits will range from a reduction in heat loss in our buildings to increasing carbon capture through tree planting along with supporting wildlife.”