Introduction
Why the focus on biodiversity and climate change?
The Council recognised the twin ecological and climate emergencies in 2019 and agreed an action plan in 2020. We aim to be a carbon neutral borough by 2030. To achieve this, we need to reduce emissions from all sources and should focus on reducing the largest emissions as soon as we can.
How to reduce emissions
- Use energy efficiently, particularly in buildings and vehicles. Generate renewable energy where you can.
- Most emissions come from heating and powering buildings and transporting goods and people. Put most effort into reducing the larger emissions and some effort into reducing all emissions.
- Electricity is being decarbonised rapidly. Aim to move from using fossil fuel power to electricity where possible.
- Use resources well including re-using and recycling.
How to consider biodiversity and climate change in service design and commissioning
It can help to consider four questions to think about biodiversity and climate change. How could the service/project/policy etc. impact on the organisations aims to:
- Be a carbon neutral organisation by 2030.
- Be a carbon neutral borough by 2030.
- Adapt to climate change.
- Protect and enhance biodiversity.