Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan: Progress and Future Plans
Five years ago, Blackburn with Darwen Council declared a climate emergency and pledged to work towards becoming a carbon-neutral borough by 2030. Since then, the council’s climate change team has been working tirelessly to minimize the borough’s emissions, which include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.
The council has made significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint through various initiatives. One of the key projects has been the installation of 86 energy efficiency measures in homes under the Home Energy Grant. This has included the installation of heat pumps and solar panels, as well as the upgrading of windows from single to double glazed in homes with no gas central heating. The council has also conducted a feasibility assessment of solar farms on council-owned land and has identified three locations that show good potential. Additionally, an appraisal has been carried out to increase solar energy generation on the borough’s commercial roof space, which suggests that there could be sufficient to potentially meet the borough’s entire annual electricity demand.
The council has also taken steps to decarbonize its fleet by commissioning 11 electric vehicles to replace diesel vans. Furthermore, an electric vehicle pilot project has been set up to work with a private charge point operator, who will provide and service 25 electric vehicle charge points at five residential sites around the borough. The council has also invested in the development of the Cycle Centre in Witton Park, which is being transformed into an Active Outdoors Hub. This new multi-use space will provide a platform for organizations to deliver walking and cycling training and workshops on active travel.
In addition, the council has planted almost 1,000 trees – standards, orchards, and micro-woods – in parks and green spaces around the borough. This not only helps to reduce carbon emissions but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the borough’s public spaces. The council has also prepared a peatland restoration plan for Aushaw Moss, which will help to restore this important ecosystem and reduce carbon emissions.
For 2024/25, the council has identified key areas of focus, including heat decarbonisation, carbon capture, transport, and housing. The council recognizes that heat decarbonisation is a critical area of focus, as it accounts for a significant proportion of the borough’s carbon emissions. The council is exploring various options for heat decarbonisation, including the installation of heat pumps and district heating systems.
The council is also committed to carbon capture and is exploring various technologies and strategies to achieve this goal. This includes the capture of carbon dioxide from industrial sources and its utilization in products such as concrete and cement. In terms of transport, the council is committed to promoting sustainable transport options, including public transport, cycling, and walking. The council is investing in the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and is exploring options for the introduction of low-emission buses.
The council is also committed to reducing carbon emissions from housing, which accounts for a significant proportion of the borough’s carbon footprint. The council is exploring various options for reducing carbon emissions from housing, including the installation of insulation, double glazing, and renewable energy systems. The council is working closely with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to develop and implement these initiatives.
In conclusion, Blackburn with Darwen Council has made significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint and is committed to continuing this work in the future. The council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan is a comprehensive and ambitious plan that sets out the council’s vision for a carbon-neutral borough by 2030. The council’s progress to date is a testament to its commitment to tackling climate change and its willingness to take bold action to reduce its carbon footprint. The council’s future plans, including heat decarbonisation, carbon capture, transport, and housing, demonstrate its commitment to continuing this work and making a positive impact on the environment.
Residents can play a crucial role in supporting the council’s efforts by making changes to their daily lives. This can include taking public transport, cycling, or walking instead of driving, recycling and reusing items, and making energy-efficient changes to their homes. By working together, the council and its residents can make a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change.