We’ve reduced our carbon footprint by 34% over a four-year period, already surpassing our 2022 target and going some way to achieving our ambitious aim for net zero emissions by 2030.
Our footprint has reduced by 39,962 carbon tonnes equivalent which is the measure used to describe all emission gases that contribute to the build up of greenhouse gases within the earth’s atmosphere and causes climate change.
Our organisation footprint is made up of emissions from buildings, waste, fleet and business travel and we have made changes in key areas which has delivered benefits for our environment and our local communities.
Some of the changes we’ve made include how we now manage our buildings. We’ve increased the number of building energy management systems, improved metering and updgraded heating and lighting within our buildings, so they can be more energy efficient.
We’ve also undertaken significant conversion of street lighting to LED; signed up to be part of the Clyde Valley Residual Waste Project and made improvements to our fleet, including increasing the number of electric vehicles, as well as ensuring Euro6 compliance.
James McKinstry, Chair of the Climate Change Group, said: “The Council declared a climate emergency in 2019, and to have already reached our 2022 target reaffirms our drive and commitment to protecting the environment.
"We’re making real progress by leading the way and rolling out positive changes to our services and how we deliver these, which in turn are helping to reduce our carbon footprint. Much work requires to continue on this important matter and we require to continue to approach it with the same vigour and commitment currently being shown across the council.
“Maintaining and developing our environment will continue to play a significant part in delivering our ambition to make North Lanarkshire the place to Live, Learn, Work, Invest and Visit.”