Local authorities must take responsibilty for emmissions

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has today called for local authorities to take greater responsibility in mitigating climate change and helping the UK meet its carbon targets.

In a new report, commissioned by Department of Energy and Climate Change, the CCC says local authorities have significant influence over key emitting sectors including residential and commercial buildings, surface transport and waste. 

“The research we’ve done shows local authorities have the potential to significantly impact on the UK’s scale and speed of emissions reductions,” said Committee member Professor, Julia King.

“There is a wealth of good work being done already at local and regional levels but many opportunities remain untapped. It is essential that these opportunities are delivered if we are to meet our national carbon targets.”

However, the Committee says that with councils struggling financially, additional government support and funding is needed.

Councils are currently under no obligation to set targets and implement measures to reduce emissions within their catchment area. The Committee argues that limited action at a local level would put the success of national carbon budgets at risk.

“Local authorities need to show leadership and recognise their wider role in supporting local emissions reductions,” said King.

“The government needs to strengthen incentives for action by providing national funding where required and should consider introducing a statutory duty for area-wide, low carbon, plans.”

Given stronger incentives, the report identifies how local authorities can support emissions reductions by using energy efficiency programmes, promoting sustainable travel options, giving planning approval to renewable energy projects and developing recycling programmes. Such carbon reduction programmes could also bring a range of benefits to local communities such as reduced energy bills, economic regeneration and jobs, and improved health.

The UK government has yet to respond to the report; however it is obliged to consider its recommendations.
 

 

Image 01: Olivier Bruchez | Flickr

Image 02: Climate Action Stock Photo

Image 03: Olivier Bruchez | Flickr