Green upgrades work towards carbon reduction – Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council

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Moving forward with our environmental goals, we aim to lower carbon emissions and also cut costs for taxpayers.

The focus on the biggest energy-consuming structures is a key component of the recently revised Sustainable Environment Strategy of the Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council.

The local government is taking steps to achieve net carbon zero before 2030, as they have already decreased their carbon emissions by 43% since 2019.

According to David Hutchison, who is a member of the Sustainable Environment Cabinet at Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council:

We have made significant progress in our efforts to achieve a net-zero carbon council, but there is still additional work to be done.

When we direct our attention to those who consume the most energy, such as J2, Brampton museum, the crematorium, and depot, we have the ability to substantially lower our carbon emissions while also decreasing energy expenses.

The job entails improving the walls, windows, and roofs, setting up solar panels and LED lights, renovating heating systems, and eventually transitioning to using eco-friendly energy to operate the crematorium.

In June, the council's cabinet received a report stating that they have made progress in their Sustainable Environment Strategy, which they implemented in December 2020. According to the report, the council has been able to reduce emissions from their HGV fleet by 90%. Furthermore, they have planted about 15,000 trees and switched to renewable energy to power their electricity consumption.

The Sustainable Environment Strategy was officially approved in 2020 with the ultimate goal of aiding the council's shift towards more sustainable practices. This entails lessening their dependence on fossil fuels, cutting down on harmful emissions such as carbon, decreasing waste production, promoting recycling, and counteracting the remaining carbon emissions.

Simon Tagg, Head of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, expressed that achieving net carbon zero is a crucial first endeavor towards attaining the overall net carbon zero target for the entire borough by 2050.

The council's share in the total amount of carbon emissions in the region is relatively minor; however, we can lead by example and demonstrate what's possible.

Working together to solve a problem can be very effective, and that's why Newcastle has teamed up with Staffordshire County Council and other councils in the area. By combining our efforts, we can achieve more than if we work alone.