Norwich City Council cuts carbon emissions by 7% in a year
It's seen a two thirds reduction since 2008
Last updated 12th Jul 2023
Norwich City Council claims it reduced its carbon emissions by 7% in a year and has seen a two thirds reduction since 2008.
They've set out the figures in a report to the council’s Climate and Environment Emergency Executive Panel, which shows the council’s total annual emissions for the 2021/22 financial year were 3.6 million kilograms of carbon dioxide, a 7% reduction on the 20/21 figure.
Compared to its 2007/08 baseline year, the council has cut 7 million kilograms of carbon emissions – this is the equivalent emissions of driving a car 32 million miles.
It comes after the local authority officially declared a climate and biodiversity emergency in 2019.
Since then, the council's taken steps to make City Hall more environmentally friendly - installing 155 solar panels and fitting an air source heat pump on the roof.
They also upgraded the building's boiler - a move they estimate saves 50 tonnes of carbon a year.
The council says it's 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.
The authority is now working on an updated Carbon Management Plan, which will set out, in detail, how the council will reach its 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.”