Chris McFarling

A boyhood fascination for nature led to Chris graduating with a degree in Zoology in 1983. Then a remarkable opportunity to work as a naturalist guide in the Galapagos Islands and in the Ecuadorian Amazon led him, upon his return, to work with the BBC Natural History Unit making wildlife films. In 2001 Chris moved to the Forest of Dean to live, work and bring up a family. In 2003 Chris obtained a Post Grad Diploma on Energy and Sustainable Development, including Climate Change. Elected the first Green District Councillor in 2015, 3 years later, Chris proposed that the council, declare of a Climate Emergency (the 3rd nationwide), with unanimous support. Chris is a County Councillor, Parish Councillor and District Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Climate, Energy, Active Travel and Biosphere. Chris was instrumental in pushing for the Council to apply for the AURORA project funding.