Knowsley Council declared a Climate Emergency in January 2020 and set a target of Net Zero carbon emissions from its estate and services by 2040. The council is working with partner organisations to reduce emissions across the borough.
What the council have done so far
The council has created and actioned several plans to help achieve its Net Carbon Zero 2040 Target, including:
Climate Emergency Action Plan
This plan sets out 10 key themes where targeted actions to reduce carbon emissions can be undertaken.
Net Zero Delivery Plan 2022-2025
This plan sets out short-term priorities that the council intends to complete by 2025, based on the actions in the Climate Emergency Action Plan.
Heat Decarbonisation Plan
This plan outlines the decarbonisation options for 19 council buildings. The council aims to expand this plan to outline decarbonisation options for all of its buildings and all the schools in the borough.
Where Knowsley Council’s emissions come from
The council's carbon emissions come from five main sources:
- Gas usage in council buildings
- Electricity usage in council buildings
- Street lighting emissions
- Emissions from staff travel on council business
- Emissions from fleet vehicles usage
How much the council has reduced its emissions
Knowsley Council has made significant carbon savings, with a 69% reduction in emissions in 2021/22 compared with 2009/10 levels.
What happens next
The council remains committed to delivering its Net Carbon Zero 2040 target. It also recognises that working with the community to reduce borough-wide emissions is crucial.
The council's work with communities will focus on Net Zero Avoidable Waste and the introduction, support, and expansion of the Circular Economy.
Environmental education
As part of its commitment to tackling the Climate Emergency, the council has a range of education support and initiatives available for schools, community groups, and businesses.
The council's Environmental Education Officer can provide free training and workshops covering the following areas:
- Environmental education and citizenship
- Eco-Schools
- Green Tree Schools award
- Behaviour change programmes
- Waste minimisation programmes