Hertsmere Borough Council has declared a climate emergency.

Every councillor in the chamber committed to the motion which means the council must achieve net-zero carbon emissions by no later than 2050.

The council also approved a budget of £150,000 to fund climate change initiatives.

The motion was presented by Tory councillor Glenn Briski awho delivered a passionate speech, adding that “future generations are judging the decision we make tonight”.

The motion reads: “This council acknowledges the scientific consensus on the effects of anthropogenic climate change and recognises this authority’s role in mitigating the impact of the impending climate disaster.

“This council hereby declares a climate emergency in recognition of the catastrophic effect of changing weather patterns.”

Hertsmere joins neighbouring boroughs Dacorum, St Albans, Three Rivers, and Watford, in declaring a climate emergency.

It comes as millions of people take to the streets across the world in what could be the largest climate protest in history.

Protests have already taken place in Australia, where an estimated 300,000 people gathered at more than 100 rallies calling for action to guard against climate change.