Taking Steps To Become Carbon Neutral

“AMBITIOUS” plans for how BCP Council will become carbon neutral by 2030 have been outlined in a new action plan.

Wide-ranging recommendations

More than 150 measures are outlined in the draft strategy which will form the basis of public consultation, should it be backed at Tuesday’s meeting of the council.

They include the possibility of introducing a congestion charge, encouraging the use of electric and hydrogen-powered taxis and purchasing land for “large-scale renewable energy installations”.

“We are uncertain of the full extent that the effects of climate change will have on our area but know it will be more severe if we do not act now,” a report published ahead of the meeting says.

“Non-achievement of our declaration commitments will contribute to a further degraded and hostile global environment with local consequences.”

Publication of the plan

Publication of the action plan follows the July decision of the council to declare a climate and ecological emergency and its subsequent pledge to be carbon neutral by 2030.

It also promised to work with organisations and people to help the whole area reach a “net-zero position” ahead of the 2050 target set by the government.

The council is responsible for just under 20,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year – about one per cent of the total for the area.

Most of this comes from its direct burning of fuel, such as petrol in cars, and through its use of electricity.

Including green roofs

We were delighted to see that one of the measures outlined in the extensive plans relates to an increased focus on installing green roofs.

‘Seek to promote the development of green roofs and walls, street trees and urban greening.’

To read the full list of measures, please visit the Bournemouth Echo website via the following link – https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/18093377.bcp-council-unveils-aims-become-carbon-neutral-2030/