Climate change and sustainability are to be put at the heart of decision-making at Hertfordshire County Council.

Members of the county council unanimously backed the declaration of a climate emergency.

And on Monday it was agreed that any proposal considered by county councillors should now include a section dedicated to its climate change and sustainability implications.

Presenting the proposal, deputy council leader councillor Teresa Heritage said the section would make council officers think about the implications of what they were suggesting.

She said, it would also ensure councillors were considering the impact of their decision making on all matters related to sustainability.

The climate change and sustainability implications will now be referenced in all cabinet panel reports requiring a decision, with the practice reviewed after 12 months.

Welcoming the move, executive member for public health and prevention councillor Tim Hutchings said: "I think this will really challenge us.

"I think it is a brave move.

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"I think it's the right move and I support it entirely with great enthusiasm."