Council cuts carbon emissions by 43% since 2019 but set to miss net 2030 zero targets
Suffolk County Council has reduced its direct carbon emissions by 43% since declaring a climate emergency in 2019 but faces challenges meeting its 2030 net zero target.
Why it matters: The figures demonstrate significant progress in the council's climate commitments while highlighting the complex challenge of reducing indirect emissions, which make up 65% of its carbon footprint.
The big picture: A new report to be presented to the council's Scrutiny Committee on 21 November shows:
- Direct emissions from council buildings, vehicles and street lighting have fallen 43% since 2019.
- This rises to 75% when accounting for the switch to renewable electricity.
- The council ranks among England's top three county councils for direct emission reductions.
By the numbers:
- Street and traffic lights: 57% reduction
- Council vehicles: 50% reduction
- Building gas and oil use: 37% reduction
- Staff commuting: 30% reduction
- Building electricity use: 25% reduction
Yes, but: The council faces bigger hurdles with "Scope 3" emissions – indirect emissions from areas like home-to-school transport and staff using their own vehicles for work. These make up nearly two-thirds of total emissions and are projected to fall by only 48% by 2030.
The bottom line: "Although our latest report suggests that we are not currently on course to meet our net zero targets across all scopes, as new products, services, and opportunities become increasingly available, I think greater reductions will be achievable," said Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality.
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