Council Continues to Reduce Emissions

Since 2007/08, the council’s organisational emissions have been reduced by 54.6%. 

The Climate, Net Zero and Environment Committee is being asked to note the progress made by the Council in responding to the climate emergency through the ongoing reduction of organisational emissions. 

Over the last year, the council’s total emissions have decreased by approximately 4%, primarily due to reductions in natural gas use and waste-related emissions. 

Further reductions have been achieved in transport, which accounts for around 10% of the Council’s overall emissions and has seen a year-on-year decrease of approximately 1%. 

The council continues to explore and implement pathways to achieve net zero emissions, focusing on strategic investments, operational efficiencies, and collaborative initiatives that support long-term decarbonisation across its estate and services. 

Between 2019 and 2022, the council invested £3 million in renewable technologies and energy efficiency measures, including the installation of solar panels at nine sites, including at Kingspark School and Menzieshill Housing. 

Climate, Net Zero and Environment Convener Heather Anderson said: “Reducing the council’s carbon emissions by over 50% is quite incredible. 

“As a council, we are committed to tackling climate change and reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2045, not just because of there is a target, but because achieving net zero means warmer homes, cheaper energy bills and more jobs in Dundee.  This this report demonstrates the progress we are making towards that goal. 

“This reduction is an encouraging sign, but it also underlines the importance of continued investment in energy efficiency measures and low-carbon technologies to sustain our progress towards net zero.” 

The Climate Change (Duties of Public Bodies:  Reporting Requirements) (Scotland) requires public bodies to report targets on their operational/organisational emissions.   

The Climate, Net Zero and Environment Committee will meet on Monday 17^th November.