This included our target of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2032, or sooner, and helping the county as a whole to do so by 2050 which is in line with the UK government’s national commitment.
There was good news with us being on track to deliver the majority of the targets in the strategy within the timescales and highlighted by the fact that our carbon emissions have reduced by 73% since 2009. This covers emissions from streetlighting, our vehicle emissions, business travel and our buildings.
Carbon emissions for the whole county have also made good progress reducing by 25% since 2005. These include emissions from homes, commercial buildings, transport, industry, farming, waste management, and the public sector.
These figures have been welcomed but the reduction in our emissions is slowing down and there are still challenges to be faced especially in face of budgetary pressures. We will be increasingly looking to secure external funding, work in partnership and use our influence to bring about positive change.
Our new Climate Change Strategy for 2026 onwards is now being worked on.