EAST Dunbartonshire Council in Scotland has reduced its carbon footprint by 41% and exceeded its five-year target a year early.
However, that is just the start, with the councillors approving an amended Sustainability and Climate Change Framework as well as a new Action Plan in their 19 December meeting.
Councillor Vaughan Moody, Joint Leader of the Council, commented on the council’s performance: “I am pleased by the progress we have made as a Council and in the communities of East Dunbartonshire.
“While we are punching above our weight and well ahead of target, we can’t afford to rest on any laurels. The new Action Plan contains a number of measures to ensure we continue the excellent work to help respond to this national – and international – emergency.”
The Council’s carbon footprint was cut by 41% in 2018/19 (compared to the baseline year of 2012/13).
This is due to measures including changes to how the Council handles waste, concerted efforts by employees and a significant reduction in carbon emissions from energy use in buildings, partly due to improvements in the corporate estate.
Council teams have also been encouraged to use sustainable transport, pool bicycles and car-share arrangements.
Future plans include a new Single-Use Plastics Policy, with disposable plastic cups being discontinued within the Council, and additional work with schools.
The Council is also continuing to support campaigns such as Upstream Battle (from Keep Scotland Beautiful), which aims to tackle marine litter at source, initially focusing on the River Clyde.
Councillor Andrew Polson, Joint Leader of the Council, added: “We have introduced a range of measures to reduce waste, save energy and improve efficiency. That is good news for the environment and the taxpayer.
“I’m pleased to welcome the latest reports – which reflect the positive steps we are taking as an authority, and our commitment to work with a range of organisations and communities to combat climate change.”
