51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute continues to lead the way in its approach to tackling the climate emergency.
At a meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee, the council’s Climate Change Board provided an update on some of the recent activity aimed at ensuring 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute meets its Net Zero targets.
A variety of projects and initiatives are underway, all of which are aiding the drive to reduce emissions. These include:
- 281 homes have been insulated across 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute as part of the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficient Scotland Scheme, contributing to a reduction in harmful carbon emissions and reducing fuel costs for householders.
- A joint project between the council and 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp Community Housing Association (ACHA) has delivered a programme of insulation works on properties in Tarbert, Bute, and Cowal, using Scottish Government funded grants of £722,000.
- A new 50kW Solar PV ground array system at the council’s headquarters at Kilmory Castle is now online and generating energy.
- 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust (ACT) is working in partnership with 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute Community Planning Partnership on the recruitment of a new Climate Change Action Project Manager who will be responsible for leading the delivery of a new regional 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute Climate Action Plan.
- ACT is also working with partners to submit a proposal to the Scottish Government to host a new 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp Climate Action Hub.
- The council’s ‘Green Summer’ campaign promoted a range of initiatives including a school uniform recycling scheme, plastic-free picnics, International Plastic Free Bag Day, shop local, reduce fast fashion, active travel maps, National Marine Week and World Conservation Day
As part of the council’s overall climate change strategy, its Decarbonisation Plan sets a three-year framework for the area’s climate journey and route map to Net Zero. The plan highlights the council’s clear commitment to be a Net Zero organisation by 2045 – full details are available on the council website.