Reading is making significant strides in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for a net-zero future. A new report reveals that the Council has cut its carbon footprint by 74.3% since 2008/09. This mirrors a 57% drop in emissions across the borough since the 2005 baseline.
These impressive figures will be presented to the Council’s Strategic Environment, Planning, and Transport (SEPT) committee, which is set to adopt the new Reading Climate Emergency Strategy and Action Plan for 2025-30. This plan outlines collaborative efforts to further reduce emissions (source).
Even though the Council’s emissions account for just 1.2% of the total borough emissions, they set an important example. Several significant projects are underway to boost these reductions:
- The Hexagon: Ground-source heat pumps will harness naturally occurring warm water from underground to heat the venue.
- Civic Centre: Old gas boilers are being replaced with heat pumps, contributing to a more energy-efficient library and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Bennet Road: This future zero-carbon depot is adding air source heat pumps, solar panels, and electric refuse trucks, with plans for solar canopies in car parks.
Reading is also committed to sustainability in public events, participating in the Green Events Code of Practice national trial.
In a recent achievement, Reading maintained its position on the Carbon Disclosure Project “A” list, recognized for bold climate action along with only 122 cities worldwide, including 20 in the UK.
Since declaring a climate emergency in 2019, the Reading Climate Change Partnership (RCCP) has been pivotal in driving change. The RCCP’s latest report shows a 57.3% reduction in emissions since 2005, placing Reading 12th among 374 UK local authorities for emissions cutbacks. Impressively, the borough’s per capita emissions are the lowest in Berkshire, even below regional and national averages.
Last year, the RCCP conducted a comprehensive climate engagement initiative to shape the new strategy for 2025-30, focusing on energy, transport, water management, waste reduction, nature conservation, and food sustainability.
Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, expressed pride in Reading’s achievements. He emphasized that while the Council’s efforts are notable, achieving net zero requires collective action from all residents and organizations. He pointed out the need for addressing climate change’s impacts, which increasingly manifest as extreme weather events.
With each step towards sustainability, Reading shows that collaborative efforts can indeed drive positive change, paving the way for a healthier planet for future generations.
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