Norwich City Council reduce carbon emissions by 66% in 15 years
Norwich City Council, whose 2022-2026 Corporate Plan commits them to reducing carbon emissions, have unveiled new figures showing they have been reduced by two thirds since 2008 and by 7% in the last year.
The report covers the council’s Scope 1 and 2 emissions and the Scope 3 emissions from major procurement contracts.
Compared to its 2007/08 baseline year, the council has cut 7m kgs of carbon emissions – the equivalent emissions of driving a car 32 million miles.
The reduction comes from three main initiatives: internal energy-saving projects, building rationalisation and contractor fuel use reduction.
In terms of energy saving, the council has taken steps to ensure City Hall is run with as little impact on the environment as possible. This has involved installing 155 solar panels and fitting an air source heat pump on the roof. In addition, efficiency upgrades to the boiler in City Hall are estimated to save 50 tonnes of carbon a year.
The council has also created large carbon savings from using 100% renewable energy suppliers, installing energy efficient lighting in council owned properties, and new solar and battery storage at Hurricane Way.
Building rationalisation covers three buildings which are no longer considered council properties, while emissions from contractor fuel use dropped by 42% over the year.
To build on the good progress to date, a refreshed Carbon Management Plan is being developed. This will set out in detail council’s route to our 2030 net zero target.
Cllr Emma Hampton, cabinet member for climate change said: ‘The council understands it has a key role to play in tackling the climate crisis, both in reducing our own impact, but also acting as a leader for the city. I’m proud of the ambitious actions we have taken as a council to cut carbon emissions and to see a two thirds reduction is really encouraging.
‘But we can’t be complacent and will need a clear blueprint for the city council reach net zero emissions by 2030. I look forward to sharing our updated plan soon.’
