Sustainable South Tyneside 2020-2025

Published 1st May 2020 An accessible strategy document from southtyneside.gov.uk

Moving towards a carbon neutral future

A bird&srquo;s eye view of the South Shields coastline

Foreword

South Tyneside Council is committed towards a sustainable future, striving towards carbon neutrality across Council buildings and operations by 2030.

We stand at a critical juncture in our actions towards climate change, by the end of the coming decade we will be on one of two paths.

A path in which we have past the point of no return, risking the health and safety of everyone on this planet, or a path of resolve with sustainable solutions that limit global temperatures beyond 1.5°C by the end of the century.

The signs are unmissable with the impacts of global warming being more severe than previously understood:

  • Sea level rises are accelerating
  • Oceans are warming
  • Ecosystems are becoming more vulnerable
  • Ice caps are melting
  • Extreme weather events are increasing

To limit the global temperature rise to the necessary 1.5°C by the end of the century will require a reduction in emissions of 45% from 2010 levels by 2030, and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

According to the latest Emissions Gap Report from the UN Environment Programme, greenhouse gas emissions have risen 1.5% a year over the last decade.

At current trends, we are looking at global warming of between 3.4°C and 3.9°C by the end of the century.

The impact of all life on the planet, including ours will be catastrophic.

However, with rapid global action to cut greenhouse gas emissions, we can still reduce the impact of global temperature rises.

Councillor Iain Malcolm Leader of the Council

South Tyneside Council’s commitment towards climate change is strong and focused; implementing strategies that bring about real change, significantly reducing the amount of carbon being emitted, while increasing our renewable capabilities moving to a cleaner, greener renewable source for our energy supplies.

We have already taken actions to reduce Council emissions through:

  • A significant building rationalisation programme
  • Installation of Solar PV to Council buildings
  • LED lighting upgrades
  • Building modernisation and retrofit improvements

Some of our future plans include:

  • The Viking Energy Network in Jarrow, which will use a cutting-edge river source heat pump to heat Council buildings, while providing electricity from a solar PV farm
  • Renewable electricity generation at the Council’s Middlefields Depot, which includes a wind turbine, solar PV coupled with battery storage.

Climate change is a responsibility that we all must share without full engagement we will be unable to deliver the reductions required.

We must open our eyes to the imminent threat facing us all, there is no time and no reason to delay.

Cllr Joan Atkinson Lead Member, Area Management & Community Safety

Introduction

Climate change is the defining issue of our time.

The state of the climate and the health of our planet are closely linked, with changes in one radically affecting the other.

The planet’s average surface temperature has risen around 1°C above pre-industrial levels.

Global warming occurs through the increased levels of ‘greenhouse gases’ building up in the atmosphere, which prevents heat escaping from the earth. This intensifies the so called ‘greenhouse effect’ causing global temperatures to rise, resulting in climate change and instability.

The world is at risk of crossing a point of no return on climate change. As we move into uncharted territory, we face disastrous consequences. We must take immediate action to address the significance of our climatic changes.

The action required is significant but not insurmountable, but we must act now. The only solution is rapid, ambitious, transformative action by all - Governments, regions, businesses and society must work together towards a common climate goal.

It is not too late to change course, but every day that passes means that the world heats up a little more and the cost of inaction mounts. Achieving a sustainable future is not the job of one person; we are all in this together.

1.5°C versus 2°C

If global temperatures rise beyond 2°C, the impact will be catastrophic. Immediate action must be taken to maintain a 1.5°C rise only.

Effects of a 1.5°C rise

  • Lower risk of species loss
  • 10 million people fewer are expected to be exposed to sea level risk
  • Lower risk of extreme climatic changes
  • 1 in 100 summers in the Arctic likely to be free of sea ice
  • 14% of the world exposed to at least one heat wave every 5 years
  • GDP down 8%

Effects of a 2°C rise

  • 99% of warm water corals expected to disappear
  • 420 million more people frequently exposed to extreme heatwaves
  • Substantially larger increase in drought frequency and magnitude
  • At least 1 in 10 summers in the Arctic likely to be free of sea ice
  • 37% of the world exposed to at least one heatwave every 5 years
  • GDP down 13%

Limiting global warming to 1.5°C will require rapid, far-reaching and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
A flooded housing estate

Understanding climate change

Causes of climate change

Greenhouses gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), trap heat in the atmosphere stopping it escaping into space. These gases exist naturally through volcanic activity, changes in solar activity, or natural sources of CO2. However, scientists have been able to rule out natural events as the cause and speed to which climate change is taking place. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels for energy (coal, oil, and natural gas) and the clearing of forests, is having a direct impact, increasing global temperatures significantly, altering our planet’s climate, resulting in more extreme and unpredictable weather events.

Impacts of climate change

Greenhouse gases act like a blanket, the thicker the blanket, the warmer our planet becomes. At the same time, the Earth’s oceans also absorb some of this extra carbon dioxide, making them more acidic and less hospitable for sea life. Humans, animals and eco-systems face new challenges for survival due to the effects of climate change.

More frequent and intense droughts, storms, heat waves, rising sea levels, melting glaciers and warming oceans will have a direct impact on the places we live, impacting on livelihoods and communities.

As climate change worsens, dangerous weather events are becoming more frequent or severe, with people across cities and towns now facing the consequences.

Adapting to climate change

To avoid the worst effects of climate change, we need to dramatically reduce carbon emissions. We must prepare for the significant and unavoidable consequences of climate change through increasing temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, ocean acidification and the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events.

A new energy efficent nissan car

Policy context

International context

In December 2015 the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) was held in Paris. The conference marked a significant milestone bringing countries together to address the impacts of climate change.

The Paris Agreement was established with a central aim to keep global temperature rises this century well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5°C.

In October 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a special report on the impacts of global warming at 1.5°C.

The report clearly highlighted that limiting global warming to 1.5°C would require “rapid, far reaching and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society”.

National context

The UK Climate Change Act sets a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions against 1990 levels to net zero by 2050.

The UK’s 2050 net zero target is one of the most ambitious in the world and was recommended by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC), the UK’s independent climate advisory body.

The Climate Change Act requires the Government to set legally-binding ‘carbon budgets’ to act as stepping stones towards the 2050 target.

Local context

Meeting challenging reduction targets of net zero by 2050 cannot be achieved by the Government on its own.

As a Local Authority we must commit to playing a leadership role, guiding at a local level pursuing and implementing actions that bring about change, supporting reductions in emissions.

The Regional Low Carbon Strategy (RLCS) commissioned by NECA Economic Directors (Green Economy Working Group) provides advice on low carbon project themes. The Strategy demonstrates a cohesive regional approach and contributes to wider regional economic development.

The RLCS also aligns closely to that of the North East Local Economic Partnership (NELEP) Energy for Growth Strategy.

Government figures show that in South Tyneside during 2005 to 2017, carbon emissions have fallen by 37%, across three sectors, domestic, transport and commercial/industrial. Per capita this represents a fall from 5.6 tonnes in 2005 to 3.5 tonnes in 2017.

The inside of a newly developed building

Development of the Strategy and Action Plan

The UK’s climate is changing. To limit the most damaging impacts, we must all work together. As a community leader we must encourage and facilitate behaviour change not only across Council buildings and services, but across the wider community, adopting a collective approach that supports reductions in emission, while adapting to the inevitable impacts of climate change.

The Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan covers two key aspects:

Climate Change Mitigation: focusing on the actions we need to take to reduce our carbon emissions, helping to mitigate against further global temperature rises; and

Climate Change Adaptation: establishing the necessary steps that we must take to prepare and adapt to future changes in our climate

The Strategy brings a wide range of plans and strategic actions across the Council into one place, through the establishment of a 5 year action plan focused on climate change mitigation and adaptation requirements.

Data analysis and research

Through research, data collection and monitoring we must understand the issues we face and the actions we must take to address the impacts of climate change. The following areas of research were undertaken to help inform the Strategy:

  • Policy and legal drivers for mitigating against and adapting to climate change
  • Working with Council colleagues and key stakeholders, identifying actions already underway, and the impacts being delivered
  • Identifying future delivery opportunities that will support on-going reductions
  • Identifying baseline carbon emission levels
  • Researching measures to support reductions in the Council’s carbon footprint, working towards carbon neutrality by 2030
  • Increasing the knowledge and understanding of the impacts of climate change, looking at past trends and future projections across the Borough
  • Prioritising areas for action, implementing measures to support carbon reductions
A woman talking to a crowd of people

Public consultation and engagement

Awareness-raising and public engagement has been a key aspect in the development of the Council’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan. Through effective engagement we have provided the opportunity for members of the public and key stakeholders to have their say in relation to climate change.

The Council understands that it will be able to achieve far more by working in partnership with communities, organisations, businesses and individuals.

Consultation activities have helped to provide a better understanding of stakeholders’ values, interests, issues, and concerns, in relation to climate change, while supporting the generation of new ideas.

The consultation process included:

  • Online public consultation and questionnaire
  • Workshops with Members and Council Officers, identifying past, present and future delivery options and solutions addressing the impacts of Climate Change
  • Awareness raising and presentations to Community Area Forums (CAFs); Cleaner Greener Board; Public Health and Youth Parliament

Respondents provided, feedback, local views and ideas on how the Council and communities can work together to tackle climate change.

Of those that responded to the consultation, 99% said they were concerned about the impacts of climate change.

Key areas of concern included:

  • Environmental destruction
  • Extreme weather events
  • Species extinction
  • Rising Temperatures
  • Flooding

Comments and areas for investigation were received on a wide range of topic areas, including:

  • Development of renewable energy solutions
  • Sourcing renewable energy supplies
  • Investing in LED Street lighting
  • Developing greener, cleaner transport options
  • Protecting the environment and greenspaces, while enhancing biodiversity
  • Waste reduction and increased recycling activities
  • Working with the Business community to develop a thriving Green Economy across South Tyneside

The information obtained has been considered, analysed and used to inform the Strategy and Action Plan.

A new council building

Our commitment

This Strategy and Action Plan is driven by our climate change objective, in which we strive to become carbon neutral, while ensuring we play our part in meeting wider National and International targets.

The 21st Century will see a critical turning point in the relationship between the global economy, society and the natural environment.

To meet climate change challenges now and in the future we must develop and implement new models of low carbon growth and climate resilience.

To be successful we will need to drive investment and innovation, identifying solutions to address the challenges we face.

In 2019, the Government amended the UK’s emission reduction target, to “net zero” greenhouse gases by 2050, demonstrating a strong commitment towards the fight against climate change. South Tyneside Council has made a pledge to take all necessary steps to become “carbon neutral by 2030”.

As we embark on this journey we must acknowledge that this will be challenging, with the need for significant change and investment, which will require a collective approach, with everyone playing their part.

We must call upon the Government to provide the necessary powers and financial support if we are to successfully achieve both National and our own carbon reduction targets, working towards limiting global warming to less than 1.5°C.

It is equally important that we embrace the opportunities available in the low carbon and green industry, supporting our drive and ambition towards:

  • Economic growth
  • Job creation
  • Skills and training
  • Ensuring the health and wellbeing of our residents
  • A safe and sustainable future for all

The transition to a cleaner, greener, low carbon future will require all employees, partners, businesses and residents to support and adopt new lifestyles and operations.

This Strategy marks South Tyneside Council’s commitment towards climate change, providing a platform for collective actions and a shared vision for a successful and vibrant future supported by a prosperous and flourishing natural environment.

(Carbon neutrality, or having a net zero carbon footprint, refers to achieving net zero carbon dioxide emissions by balancing carbon emissions with carbon removal from improvement activities, where this cannot be achieved emissions may then be removed through carbon offsetting)

The outside of South Shields Town Hall, showing flowers in bloom

South Tyneside Council’s “Climate Emergency” pledge

Councils around the world are responding by declaring a “Climate Emergency”. South Tyneside Council recognises its role as part of this global community of Council’s to limit the impact of climate change by being proactive locally and demanding action from Government. To support this delivery we:

  1. Declare a “Climate Emergency”
  2. Take all necessary steps to make South Tyneside Council carbon neutral by 2030.
  3. Lead by example by establishing South Tyneside Council as a champion for a carbon neutral future for the Borough. This will include using the Council’s advocacy role to influence actions across all our communities and across the region that promotes carbon reduction.
  4. Call on the Leader and Chief Executive to write to the Government to pass the necessary legislation and provide the powers and resources necessary to deliver our climate change goals.
  5. Produce a comprehensive Climate Change Strategy that will set clear and unambiguous targets for carbon reduction, including interim targets. This will be the product of consultation with key stakeholders including the voluntary and community sector and will be considered by Council by 31 March 2020. This will include an Action Plan for the next five years.
  6. Prepare a report for Full Council on at least an annual basis setting out performance against agreed targets and recommending any amendments to the published Action Plan.
  7. Convene a “Climate Emergency” summit in 2020 to raise awareness of the impacts of climate change, provide expert support and advice and seek commitments from partners and stakeholders.
  8. Ensure that all Council strategic decisions, policies and strategies are in line with the shift towards carbon neutral by 2030.

South Tyneside Council’s carbon emission position

Reducing the amount of carbon we emit is essential if we are to keep global temperature rises below the IPCCs recommended 1.5°C

South Tyneside Council has actively been involved in delivering solutions that support the reduction in consumption and emissions, through various schemes, including a significant property rationalisation programme; LED upgrades to street lighting, along with various building improvement programmes.

South Tyneside Council has been required to report its carbon emission for a number of years through the Governments Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) mandatory emissions scheme. This scheme no longer operates (final emission reporting year was 2018/19).

Under this scheme we demonstrated significant reductions. In 2014/15 we reported 21,217 tonnes of CO2, in 2018/19 the final reporting year of the scheme we reported 10,793 tonnes of CO2, a 49% reduction.

However, we are unable to use this as the baseline reporting position as it excludes a number of key areas, such as fleet and schools.

Due to the incomplete data, we have established a more accurate data set, establishing 2018/19 as the new baseline year, for all future reporting to be measured against.

Areas of exclusion under the new reporting year includes:

  • Schools that are not managed or operated by South Tyneside Council (i.e. Academies, PFIs, Trusts and Voluntary Aided Schools)
  • Tenanted Factory Units
  • Social Housing Stock
  • Short-term hired vehicles

The Council’s baseline start point for 2018/19 is 19,010 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide (CO2).

This is the figure, in which all future actions and improvements will be measured and reported against.

The Council’s aspirational target of carbon neutrality by 2030 will be extremely challenging. To achieve this target the Council has set interim reduction targets of:

  • 25% reduction within 3 years (March 2023)
  • 50% reduction within 5 years (March 2025)

The Council will undertake a detailed review of emission reductions as part of the monitoring and review process, providing an annual update in terms of delivery against targets.

Reduction targets set are dependent on successful delivery of innovative projects identified, along with capital investment into current and future carbon reduction schemes. Changes in scheme delivery and capital investments will have a direct impact on successful delivery of the figures identified.

Carbon emissions total (tonnes CO2) delivery groups - 2018/19 baseline reporting year
Name Carbon emissions Percent
South Tyneside Council 11,176.46 59%
South Tyneside Homes 4,413.16 23%
Schools 3,420.53 18%

South Tyneside Council emissions

South Tyneside Council activities account for 59% of total carbon emissions reported, 11,176 tonnes CO2.

The main source of South Tyneside Council emissions comes from the Council’s use of electricity.

South Tyneside Council - 2018/19 baseline reporting year breakdown by emission area (tonnes CO2)
Name Carbon emissions Percent
Electricity emissions 5144 46%
Gas emissions 3804 34%
Fleet emissions 2228 20%

South Tyneside Homes emissions

South Tyneside Homes activities account for 23% of total carbon emissions reported, 4,413 tonnes of CO2.

The main source of South Tyneside Homes emissions come from gas usage.

South Tyneside Homes - 2018/19 baseline reporting year breakdown by emission area (tonnes CO2)
Name Carbon emissions Percent
Gas emissions 2262 51%
Fleet emissions 1426 32%
Electricity emissions 726 17%

School emissions

School activities account for 18% of total carbon emissions reported, 3,421 tonnes of CO2.

The main area source of school emissions come from gas usage.

Schools - 2018/19 bBaseline reporting year breakdown by emission area (tonnes CO2)
Name Carbon emissions Percent
Gas emissions 1957 57%
Electricity emissions 1395 41%
Fleet emissions 68 2%

Key delivery themes

South Tyneside Council understands its position well in relation to a clear emission reduction programme.

Our sustainable ambitions must shape the strategic decisions being made, embedding a culture of “climate first” across all Council activities.

The Climate Change Strategy provides a framework for South Tyneside Council, detailing the necessary steps and actions that must be taken to drive and deliver change, reducing emissions from our buildings, operations and those services we provide.

The Strategy commits to a wide-range of actions, including areas that will investigate and implement, where feasible new and sustainable sources of onsite energy generation and supply.

The actions identified have been established through the analysis of consumption and emission data,identifying key areas which contribute most to the Council’s carbon footprint.

In addition, Members and Officers workshops were undertaken to ensure full engagement, providing additional focus on the key areas that will bring about the most change in terms of emission reductions.

The Strategy and supporting five year Action Plan sets-out the Council’s objectives across 11 key delivery themes:

A floor inside the South Sheilds Town Hall showing computer desks

Theme 1 - Reducing emissions from Council buildings

The Council has actively implemented direct improvement measures across its building stock resulting in significant reductions in carbon emissions, while increasing on-site energy generation improving the sustainability of our buildings.

A significant building rationalisation programme has seen old and inefficient buildings replaced with centralised hubs installed with improved LED lighting, building management systems, in addition to renewable and energy efficient technologies.

The installation of renewable technologies has been targeted at sites that we know contributed the most to our emission levels, reducing reliance on carbon intensive grid-supplies.

Progress to date

  • A major buildings rationalisation programme
  • Installation of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) to 21 Council buildings with a total installed capacity of 747kWp
  • A major modernisation and refurbishment programme at South Shields Town Hall
  • Combined Heat and Power (CHP) units installed at Haven Point, Hebburn Central, Boldon C.A and Horsley Hill Children’s Centre
  • Remodelling Temple Park Leisure Centre including new boiler plant, heat pumps, LED lighting and new Building Management System (BMS).
  • Monkton Stadium improvements including LED lighting upgrades and boiler replacement

Future plans

  • Viking Energy Network, Jarrow a cutting-edge renewable energy scheme that will harness lowgrade heat from the River Tyne to heat 11 Council owned buildings. The scheme will combine a river source heat pump, CHP, a 1 MWp solar farm, private wire electrical network and battery storage, resulting in estimated carbon savings of 774 tonnes per year
  • Hebburn Minewater District Network will heat several Council buildings from former coal seams. The scheme will utilise a minewater source heat pump coupled with CHP systems, supported with thermal storage and boilers, providing a sustainable heat source to a number of buildings in Hebburn Town Centre.
  • Middlefields Energy Centre will provide on-site renewable electricity generation to key Council buildings. The scheme includes a 900kWp Wind Turbine, 100kWp PV Installation supported with battery storage
  • Council Building Improvement programme focused on reducing energy demand and emissions through building upgrades and behaviour change programmes

Delivery actions

Reference
C1
Delivery objective
Implement a clear and specific Environmental Policy across South Tyneside Council
What South Tyneside Council will do
Develop and implement a clear Environmental/Energy policy for South Tyneside Council that demonstrates our commitment and focus towards reducing the impacts that we have on the environment, while supporting carbon reductions from our buildings and operations
Estimated CO2 impact
Low/Medium
Owner
Energy Team
Climate Change Team
Reference
C2
Delivery objective
Undertake Energy Audits across Council Buildings, focusing on highest emitting buildings first, identifying opportunities and investment requirements that support the transition towards carbon neutrality
What South Tyneside Council will do
Analyse current carbon emission levels from our buildings and operations to establish highest emitters
Undertake energy audits focusing on highest emitting buildings first to establish areas for improvement
Establish an action plan highlighting required improvements across key delivery areas, establishing investment requirements, reduction impacts and delivery timescales
Implement agreed improvement actions across Council Buildings following the completion of energy audits
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
Asset Management Team
Building Managers
Key Delivery Leads
Reference
C3
Delivery objective
Continue to deliver Asset Management/ Transformation Programme on Council buildings through a programme of building reviews and rationalisation
What South Tyneside Council will do
On-going review of Council Buildings to identify and remove old and inefficient building from the Council Asset portfolio through building rationalisation and relocation programmes
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Reference
C4
Delivery objective
Continue the programme of energy efficiency improvements and incorporation of renewable/low carbon technologies in Council owned buildings - striving towards carbon neutral buildings
What South Tyneside Council will do
Utilise the findings of energy audits to retrofit improvement measures across Council buildings
Where identified as feasible and clearly supporting carbon emission reductions introduce low carbon technologies to existing Council buildings
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Reference
C5
Delivery objective
Implementation of the Viking Energy Network in Jarrow
What South Tyneside Council will do
Successfully implement the Viking Energy Network Scheme in Jarrow to provide a cuttingedge renewable energy source that will harness low-grade heat from the River Tyne to heat Council-owned buildings.
The scheme will combine a river source heat pump, CHP, 1 MWp solar farm, private wire electrical network along with battery storage
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Reference
C6
Delivery objective
Implementation of Hebburn Minewater District Heat Network
What South Tyneside Council will do
Successfully implement the Hebburn Minewater District Network Scheme to heat several Council buildings from former coal seams utilising a minewater source heat pump coupled with CHP systems, supported with thermal storage and boilers, providing a sustainable heat source
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Reference
C7
Delivery objective
Implementation of Middlefields Energy Centre
What South Tyneside Council will do
Successfully implement the Middlefields Energy Centre to provide on-site renewable electricity generation to key Council buildings through the implementation of a 900kWp Wind Turbine, 100kWp PV Installation supported with 1MWp battery storage
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Reference
C8
Delivery objective
Explore future renewable energy generation schemes across South Tyneside
What South Tyneside Council will do
Demonstrate leadership through the investigation of renewable energy schemes across South Tyneside introducing renewable technologies to encourage on-site generation and supply opportunities, including focus on current and future developments
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Regeneration Team
Energy Team
Planning
Reference
C9
Delivery objective
Investigate and identify opportunities for low carbon heat network across South Tyneside
What South Tyneside Council will do
Demonstrate leadership through the investigation and development of a low carbon heat network across South Tyneside- Develop future expansion opportunities to encourage new and future development activities to link into heat delivery networks where feasible
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Regeneration Team
Energy Team
Planning
Reference
C10
Delivery objective
Seek funding opportunities to undertake feasibility studies to ensure identified renewable generation projects are viable
What South Tyneside Council will do
Identify and apply for funding to seek viability of proposed renewable generation schemes across South Tyneside, including wind development sites
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Asset Management Team
Regeneration Team
Energy Team
Reference
C11
Delivery objective
Invest in building management systems to help improve heating controls across Council Buildings
What South Tyneside Council will do
Complete a review of existing Council buildings to identify opportunities for the implementation of BMS to improve heating controls supporting emission reductions
Estimated CO2 impact
Low/Medium
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Reference
C12
Delivery objective
Work with key service delivery leads to set specific annual emission reduction targets for aspects of STC estates and operations, which will be monitored on a quarterly basis
What South Tyneside Council will do
Develop carbon factsheets across key building delivery groups to establish current carbon footprint
Establish robust reduction targets supported by delivery actions that demonstrate how reductions in emissions will take place
Establish quarterly monitoring process to measure target reductions, identifying any risks that may impact upon successful delivery of emission reduction targets
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Energy Team
Fleet Management Team
Strategic Leads (Council Buildings; Schools and STHs)
Reference
C13
Delivery objective
Produce annual carbon emissions report against South Tyneside Council’s emissions position, identifying whether measures and interventions being implemented are meeting agreed reduction targets
What South Tyneside Council will do
Produce an annual carbon emission report, highlighting delivery position against agreed reduction targets
Highlight any areas of under achievement establishing actions that will address any identified gaps
Highlight any key areas of risk, establishing mitigating actions required
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
C14
Delivery objective
Develop training on sustainable property management
What South Tyneside Council will do
Deliver training on sustainable property management to building managers and key delivery leads, providing the skills and knowledge base to ensure effective sustainable property management
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Management Team
Climate Change Team
Street lights lit up along the beach front

Theme 2 - Street lighting

Public street lighting is an essential element of an urban environment. It affects residents’ sense of safety and social inclusion. It provides visibility for motorists, helps to reduce crime, while creating an inviting environment after dark.

Street lighting is undeniably important, but in a time of environmental awareness and budget cuts, we need to look at innovative lighting solutions to help reduce our costs and emissions, while keeping abreast of new street lighting innovations.

Operating street lights across South Tyneside accounts for a significant proportion of the Council’s electricity budget and reported carbon emissions.

Progress to date

Street lighting is a key priority of the Council with significant improvements already taking place, through the replacement of existing sodium street lights to light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

  • Between 2015-2019 we have upgraded 27% of street lights to LEDs
  • We have removed 1765 tonnes of CO2 through Street light LED upgrades

Future plans

Street lights will continue to play a fundamental role in the on-going development of smart towns and cities. Future actions will include:

  • A phased capital investment programme with continued focus on upgrading old and inefficient street lights to LEDs
  • Investigation of innovative solutions removing reliance on grid electricity supply to street lights replacing with a renewable or carbon neutral source of supply
  • Investigate future street lighting technologies to support a SMART Grid development across South Tyneside

Delivery actions

Reference
SL1
Delivery objective
Replace old and inefficient sodium street lights to LED
What South Tyneside Council will do
Continue investment to upgrade old and inefficient street lights to LED through capital investment programme
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Special Projects Officer
Reference
SL2
Delivery objective
Investigate opportunities in relation to alternative street lighting solutions
What South Tyneside Council will do
Investigate opportunities and feasibility in relation to the introduction of timed street lights/solar street lights, along with other available lighting solutions
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Special Projects Officer
Reference
SL3
Delivery objective
Investigate innovative delivery solutions that will help remove the reliance on grid supply electricity for street lighting
What South Tyneside Council will do
Investigate and review opportunities that will look at the options available to move away from current grid supplied electricity for Council street lighting, looking at renewable supply options or alternative carbon neutral sources of supply
Estimated CO2 impact
High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Special Projects Officer
Reference
SL4
Delivery objective
Keep abreast of SMART/ Intelligent street lighting solutions
What South Tyneside Council will do
Investigate and seek new ways to decrease energy usage from street lights by keeping up-to-date on emerging street lighting technology
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Asset Management Team
Energy Team
Special Projects Officer
An employee traveling via bicycle

Theme 3 - Transportation and Staff Travel

South Tyneside Council understands that radical changes are required to the way we operate and deliver services to support emission reductions.

This change will be brought about in multiple ways; the Council’s Transport and Fleet Services are actively engaged in developing Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) options to support this transition.

In addition, for staff who commute and use their own vehicles for business purposes we have already put in place a pool of electric vehicles for staff useat our main operational building, South Shields Town Hall, while encouraging sustainable modes for everyday travel.

We are aware that much more needs to be undertaken to ensure that this transition is successful. Providing reliable alternatives to the private car for everyday journeys will be one of the simplest ways to reduce emissions. This will be assisted by the emerging Local Plan; Highways Asset Management Plan and Integrated Transport Strategy, which aims to improve the quality and quantity of infrastructure available to all.

The Council will continue to drive improvements by:

  • Reducing the need to travel
  • Promote the use of public transport and active travel
  • On-going installation of EV charge points at council sites
  • Investigating, Implementing and Promoting sustainable transport
  • Decarbonising fleet vehicles
  • Ensuring that businesses that work/contract with the Council have green fleet and carbon neutral ambitions

Progress to date

  • New Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV) meet Euro 6 standards
  • Route optimisation completed for RCVs
  • South Shields Town Hall has been upgraded to include telephone conferencing facilities and WI-FI for virtual meetings
  • Expansion of the EV network to other Council sites.

Future plans

  • Establish a fleet replacement programme increasing the number of Electric/Hybrid vehicles across fleet operations
  • Ongoing review of Council’s vehicle fleet, with options for more fuel efficient vehicles
  • Reduce the number of RCVs in 2020
  • Replacement of three diesel vans with e-NV200 electric vans
  • Continue staff behaviour change programmes focused on increasing the use of innovative technology and removing or replacing unnecessary car travel

Delivery actions

Reference
TS1
Delivery objective
Improve the performance of fleet vehicles, supporting cleaner-fuelled vehicles along with the increased use of ULEV, Electric and Hybrid fleet vehicles across the Council where feasible
What South Tyneside Council will do
Ensure improved performance of the Council’s fleet to reduce emissions, including supporting and identifying opportunities for alternative solutions including Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEV), Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
Fleet Services
South Tyneside Homes
Corporate Procurement
Reference
TS2
Delivery objective
Promote driver awareness and training, to include vehicle advice and fuel economy training
What South Tyneside Council will do
Implement and promote fuelefficient driver training for our fleet drivers
Estimated CO2 impact
Low/Medium
Owner
Fleet Services
South Tyneside Homes
Reference
TS3
Delivery objective
South Tyneside Council will investigate, implement and promote the use of active and sustainable transport options for utilisation by employees allowing the delivery of business activities in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way
What South Tyneside Council will do
Complete feasibility studies to investigate opportunities for the development of sustainable transport hubs across key Council locations
Undertake a staff survey to establish and understand baseline staff travel behaviours
Increase pooled vehicle opportunities
Increase EV charge points across key Council locations and the wider Borough supporting the on-going development of the E.V Infrastructure
Investigate the feasibility towards the implementation of Electric and Standard Bikes for staff use for short business journeys
Increase the number of metro passes for corporate travel extending operating times
Undertake review of current car mileage policy
Estimated CO2 impact
Low/Medium
Owner
Highways and Transport Team
Strategic Transport Team
Transport Strategy Team
Reference
TS4
Delivery objective
Promote active staff travel through campaigns and incentive schemes encouraging employees to look at alternative and sustainable travel options when travelling to work, including the use of public transport, car sharing in addition to healthier lifestyle options including walking and cycling
What South Tyneside Council will do
Increase the proportion of staff travel by active and sustainable means
Deliver staff campaigns to promote active and sustainable transport options
Investigate and develop mechanisms to encourage more people to cycle and walk to work
Promotion of cycle to work scheme
Investigate opportunities in relation to electric bike try before you buy scheme to encourage update of alternative travel to work solutions
Estimated CO2 impact
Low
Owner
Transport Strategy Team
Climate Change Team
People planting in a community garden

Theme 4 - Environment and biodiversity

Healthy ecosystems are fundamental to life on our planet; small changes in average temperatures can have a significant impact upon them.

The climate emergency and biodiversity crisis we see today are inextricably linked. Nationally the impact of climate change has resulted in:

  • Catastrophic collapse of nature’s ecosystems, with more than 40% of insect species declining and a third endangered
  • Total mass of insects have fallen by 2.5% a year for the last 25-30 years

Global warming is likely to be the greatest cause of species extinctions this century. The IPCC says a 1.5°C average rise may put 20-30% of species at risk of extinction. If the planet warms by more than 2°C, most ecosystems will struggle.

The natural environment will have to make its own adjustments in response to climate change. However, sustaining and optimising the benefits we receive from ecosystems will require some forms of human intervention.

The revised National Planning Policy Framework along with the Council’s emerging Local Plan places significant focus on the protection of our natural environment. As the Local Planning Authority we have set out strategic policies on the ‘conservation and enhancement of the natural, built and historic environment, addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Parks, green spaces and allotments will all have a significant role to play in helping to address the Council’s response to the climate change emergency.

Trees will also play a significant role in our fight against climate change at present South Tyneside tree canopy coverage is approximately 10%, with a clear commitment to increase this further.

Progress to date

  • 4400 new tree whips planted in the past 12 months without plastic tree guards and herbicides resulting in positive environmental and emission reduction
  • Wildflower and meadow grass areas developed to improve biodiversity across the Borough
  • Contractors requested to source bedding plants grown without the use of peat
  • Small scale habitat creation projects, including woodland extensions at various sites including Jubilee Wood; conservation grazing introduced as a management tool on Cleadon Hills; created further 0.5ha of rare magnesian limestone grassland at Marsden Old Quarry

Future plans

  • Planting a minimum of 3000 trees per year with an aspirational target of achieving a 12% canopy coverage
  • Restore and create more species rich habitats across South Tyneside
  • Investigate opportunities for better use of existing green spaces, allotments and community gardens resulting in positive environmental benefits and deliver new multi-functional green spaces through the emerging local plan

Delivery actions

Reference
EB1
Delivery objective
South Tyneside will have a natural, healthy, thriving and resilient environment that makes a positive contribution to carbon capture and storage, offsetting harmful carbon emissions
What South Tyneside Council will do
Continue to increase the tree coverage across South Tyneside, by planting at least 3,000 trees per year
Investigate and implement proposals that will encourage residents to become actively involved in tree planting activities. Establish awareness raising schemes and campaigns (i.e. Plant a tree 2023)
Investigate opportunities to introduce sensor lighting across parks and green spaces, supporting carbon reductions, while limiting disruption to wildlife at night
Enhance planting and hedgerow planting across South Tyneside to offset carbon emissions and traffic pollution in urban areas
Investigate habitats that sequester carbon such as wetlands, establishing ways to manage land differently to reduce emission and/or increase carbon capture and storage
Investigate opportunities for the integration of green walls and roofs across South Tyneside
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
Asset Management Team
Greenspace Team
Planning Team
Climate Change Team
Reference
EB2
Delivery objective
Manage appropriate areas of South Tyneside Council’s land to maximise biodiversity and bioabundance, creating a wildlife rich Borough where species can more readily adapt to climate change pressures
What South Tyneside Council will do
Work with the Council’s agricultural tenants to seek opportunities to enhance existing hedgerows and plant new ones
Investigate opportunities to improve wildlife value of existing green spaces, allotments, community and public gardens
Review and implement actions to ensure natural habitats are in prime condition for carbon sequestration and storage
Undertake a mapping exercise to identify existing wildlife corridors which will in turn help to identify gaps where habitats could be created or improved to increase connectivity
Investigate opportunities that help improve and encourage biodiversity and wildlife, enhancing natural habitats in and around South Tyneside, including trees, riverside habitats and grasslands for biodiversity/pollinators
Estimated CO2 impact
Low/Medium
Owner
Asset Management Team
Greenspace Team
Planning Team
Climate Change Team
Reference
EB3
Delivery objective
Work programmes across South Tyneside Council will deliver a modern, flexible working environment, removing unnecessary waste, while implementing alternative solutions that support activities in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way
What South Tyneside Council will do
Introduce electronic payslips replacing paper copies
Develop digital and IT services to replace internal printed forms and manual processes across Council delivery areas
Introduce new digital tool offerings to help employees work collaboratively across different locations in an environmentally friendly and efficient way
Engage employees in the Councils Smarter Work Programme to help identify processes and forms that need to be changed helping to deliver alternative and efficient solutions
Estimated CO2 impact
Low
Owner
Business Development and Strategy
Climate Change Team
Communication Team
Digital and ICT Services
Reference
EB4
Delivery objective
Development of practical solutions that support the reduction and removal of single use plastic, whist promoting and increasing recycling facilities across Council buildings
What South Tyneside Council will do
Investigate and implement actions that reduce single use plastics across the Council
Undertake a review of all current recycling facilities across Council Buildings to help increase and maximise recycling opportunities
Introduce glass recycling facilities across Council Buildings
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Business Change and Delivery Team
Climate Change Team
Reference
EB5
Delivery objective
Investigate opportunities that provide access to healthy, locally grown food, while increasing the offering of vegetarian and plant based menus within Council canteens and cafes
What South Tyneside Council will do
Investigate opportunities to develop and maximise the use of locally produced food sources across the Council
Work with Council café/ canteens to increase the offering of vegetarian and plant based foods within menus
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Cafes/Canteens
Children playing with an interactive floor game

Theme 5 - Schools

There may be no greater threat facing our younger generation than climate change. This mounting global crisis will bear the greatest burden on the young of today and the future. As temperatures increase, and extreme weather events expand our children’s lives and futures will be the most disrupted.

We have the opportunity to tackle this crisis before it is too late. Decisive and immediate action must be taken to cut emissions. We must educate children to adapt to the immediate challenges faced in relation to climate change - effectively educating today’s children so they fully understand their role in the future.

We must listen to the voices of children and young people, who will inherit the significant challenges faced in relation to a changing climate.

Schools lie at the heart of our community providing a fundamental gateway in the education of our children.

Our children’s role, now and in the future cannot be underestimated, we must embrace their learning environment, educating them effectively so they will have the skills and knowledge base to adapt and drive on-going improvements, towards a low-carbon and sustainable future.

There are 64 schools in South Tyneside, of which 37 are Council maintained. The remaining 27 schools are managed under Academy Trusts, Private Finance Initiatives (PFIs), Voluntary Aided or Trust Status and are excluded from figures being reported.

The main sources of emissions from schools include:

  • Energy use in buildings
  • Pupil, staff and school transport
  • Management, disposal and recycling of waste

Progress to date

  • Annual boiler replacement programme across schools
  • Internal and external LED light replacement schemes
  • Building Management System (BMS) upgrade to all Council maintained schools
  • Promoting the use of active travel, supporting emission reductions and improved air quality around schools

Future plans

  • Work with school leaders and pupils to develop and implement emission reduction plans
  • Investigate low carbon technology solutions to reduce reliance on grid supply of energy
  • Develop and implement a climate change awareness programme across schools

Delivery actions

Reference
S1
Delivery objective
Support and promote the identification of delivery objectives clearly focused on environmental sustainability improvements and carbon reduction activities across South Tyneside Schools
What South Tyneside Council will do
Support the development and implementation of an Environmental Policy within schools (where not already in place) establishing clear environmental objectives and carbon reduction targets
Develop a Climate Change Toolkit to support schools in implementing actions that support the delivery of energy reductions, environmental improvements and carbon reductions
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Schools
Reference
S2
Delivery objective
Undertake Energy Audits across Council maintained School Buildings identifying opportunities and investment requirements that support the transition towards carbon neutrality
What South Tyneside Council will do
Analyse and establish current carbon emission levels from Council maintained school buildings
Undertake energy audits to identify areas for improvement that will support emission reductions across Council maintained schools
Identify improvements that support the delivery of carbon reductions
Work with schools to look at ways to support the implementation of identified actions following the completion of energy audits
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Asset Management - Schools Team
Energy Team
Reference
S3
Delivery objective
Investigate opportunities in relation to low carbon/ renewable energy generation solutions across Council maintained Schools supporting the delivery of energy efficiency improvements, while supporting the drive towards carbon neutrality
What South Tyneside Council will do
Where identified as feasible investigate opportunities in relation to the implementation of low carbon/renewable technologies across maintained schools
Investigate opportunities for Council maintained schools to look at financial options available through Salix Loan Scheme for School to support installation of low carbon/ renewable energy solutions
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Asset Management - Schools Team
Energy Team
Schools
Reference
S4
Delivery objective
Work with Council maintained schools to establish specific annual emission reduction targets
What South Tyneside Council will do
Develop carbon factsheets across maintained schools to establish current carbon footprint
Support maintained schools in the development of reduction targets supported by delivery actions that demonstrate how reductions in emissions will take place
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
S5
Delivery objective
Produce annual carbon emissions report against South Tyneside Council’s emissions position, identifying whether measures and interventions being implemented are meeting agreed reduction targets
What South Tyneside Council will do
Produce an annual carbon emission report, highlighting delivery position against agreed reduction targets
Highlight any areas of under achievement establishing actions that will address any identified gaps
Highlight any key areas of risk, establishing mitigating actions required
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
S6
Delivery objective
Schools will provide a sustainable learning environment, where children’s voices will be heard. Our children will develop the skills and knowledge to support the drive toward a brighter, sustainable, low carbon future, delivering positive results towards the fight against climate change
What South Tyneside Council will do
Work with schools across South Tyneside to help identify and support teachers in the completion of the accredited United Nations climate change training course, establishing climate change leads across schools
Establish a delivery network of climate change leads across schools to support actions that raise awareness and implement actions that help address the impacts of climate change
Support and encourage schools in the development of a schools climate change committee, providing a forum for pupils to share and discuss ideas on ways to help reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions
Encourage schools (where not already engaged) to use Eco-Schools Programme to help address environmental and sustainability issues across schools
Keep schools up to date and informed of resources and organisations that can help deliver key messages and solutions to support emission reductions
Support schools in the provision of climate change information and educational tools, to support the development of their own learning resources for implementation across schools
Estimated CO2 impact
Low
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
S7
Delivery objective
Encourage schools to actively promote sustainability and become models of good practice to pupils, staff, families along with the wider community
What South Tyneside Council will do
Help influence behavioural change as part of the school run, establishing targeted schemes that encourage sustainable and alternative travel options to schools to support emission reductions and improved air quality
Work with schools to improve sustainability and recycling including the reduction/ removal of single-use plastics
Estimated CO2 impact
Low
Owner
Climate Change Team
Schools
Two workers installing solar panels on a home

Theme 6 - South Tyneside Homes operations

South Tyneside Homes (STH) is an arms-length management organisation (ALMO) created by South Tyneside Council in April 2006 to manage, maintain and improve its 18,000 Council homes and estates. Extensive improvement programmes have been delivered during this time resulting in sustainable homes that meet increasing levels of need, while reducing inequalities and tackling fuel poverty, improving wellbeing across all stages of people’s lives.

In addition to the significant improvements to social housing, considerable efforts have been made to improve the energy efficiency of buildings directly controlled by STH, including Operational Buildings, Housing Plus Schemes, High Rises and Common Rooms.

Low carbon and renewable solutions have been installed across a number of STH’s buildings, including the installation of solar PV along with LED lighting upgrades.

The implementation of a diverse range of energy efficiency measures and improvement works has resulted in significant and recognisable benefits, clearly supporting reductions in energy usage and cost, while supporting on-going reductions in carbon emissions.

(Emissions from Social Housing are not included within this strategy and action plan. Energy usage that contributes to carbon emissions from Social Housing are outside the control of the Council and are therefore excluded from monitoring and reporting activities. However, we will lead by example, providing an advocacy role to support and influence actions that promote carbon reductions across our communities).

Progress to date

  • Installation of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) to 13 Housing Plus Schemes with a total installed capacity of 129kWp
  • A major modernisation and refurbishment of Unit 3, STHs main operational building, including new condensing boiler plant, Insulation to fabric and low energy LED lighting installed.

Future plans

  • Investigate the opportunity and feasibility of effective joint working projects, including the proposed Viking Energy Network and Middlefields Energy Centre
  • On-going building Improvement programme, including LED upgrades
  • Staff awareness programme on Climate Change

Delivery actions

Reference
ST1
Delivery objective
Maintain and enhance South Tyneside Homes current fuel poverty plan to ensure it remains current and that identified objectives are achievable
What South Tyneside Council will do
Review the fuel poverty and asset management plan annually, ensuring the action plan is up to date, relevant and aligns with South Tyneside Councils strategy.
Communicate the plan to both staff and customers.
Consult with STC on any changes to the plan annually.
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
STH - Asset Management
Reference
ST2
Delivery objective
Develop STH building condition information exploring options for additional building fabric improvement measures.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Surveys will be undertaken to identify opportunities for investment to reduce energy consumption and improve building efficiencies. This includes insulation, windows, electrical installations and heating installations.
Review survey information and determine options regarding feasibility, finance, efficiencies and estimated timescales to prioritise initiatives.
Develop specifications and programmes of work to implement agreed schemes.
Ensure that all residents and STC Members are effectively communicated with prior to the implementation of any programmes.
Establishing positive impacts resulting from the work, highlighting financial, consumption and carbon reduction benefits.
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
STH - Asset Management Team
Reference
ST3
Delivery objective
Continue to research and identify potential funding streams, looking at low carbon opportunities to enhance STH Managed Buildings
What South Tyneside Council will do
Continue to work with current partners in a bid to identify funding opportunities, i.e. NEA, Osborne Energy, Dyson.
Estimated CO2 impact
Low
Owner
STH - Asset Management Team
Reference
ST4
Delivery objective
Work closer with South Tyneside Council’s Asset Management Team to ensure effective joint working on delivery projects, i.e. Energy Network in Jarrow and Minewater project in Hebburn
What South Tyneside Council will do
STC and STH to establish effective mechanisms to communicate with each other on energy investment and improvement programmes, providing a joined-up and cohesive approach to deliver carbon reductions and improved sustainability across Council/STH buildings and operations.
Ensure that investment is focused, where possible at collaborative/joint working activities, driving environmental improvements while ensuring the delivery of value for money.
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium to High
Owner
STC Asset Management Team
Energy Team
STH Asset Management Team
Reference
ST5
Delivery objective
Promote the importance of Energy efficiency with staff and tenants.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Utilise social media and the internet to ensure that energy efficiency and climate change are communicated effectively.
Promote all improvement works undertaken by STH, which contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions and energy reductions.
Ensure that staff and residents (where possible) have the opportunity to be involved in training and awareness activities in relation to climate change and carbon reduction.
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
STC Asset Management Team
Reference
ST6
Delivery objective
Replacement of South Tyneside Homes existing Fleet with a more efficient and sustainable transport
What South Tyneside Council will do
Work alongside Fleet Management to review and highlight worst performing vehicles for initial replacement
Work alongside STC Finance team to identify available budget to facilitate vehicle renewal.
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium to High
Owner
South Tyneside Council Fleet Management
Reference
ST7
Delivery objective
Continue to work with South Tyneside Council to review current infrastructure required to introduce Electric Vehicles.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Undertake trials on electric vehicles to identify possible best use within STH existing fleet
Review current infrastructure and implement improvements in line with trial recommendations
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium to High
Owner
South Tyneside Homes
South Tyneside Council Fleet Management
Reference
ST8
Delivery objective
Continually assess our fleet to identify opportunities for the introduction of electrical vehicles.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Undertake trials on electric vehicles to identify opportunities for use within STH existing fleet
Constantly review fuel usage to identify possible areas in which electric vehicles would make the best impact
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium to High
Owner
South Tyneside Homes
South Tyneside Council Fleet Management
Reference
ST9
Delivery objective
Review all grey fleet mileage to identify car sharing opportunities and potential electric fleet requirements.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Undertake trials on electric vehicles to identify opportunities for use within STH existing fleet
Constantly review mileage claims to identify possible areas in which electric vehicles / car sharing would make the best impact
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium to High
Owner
South Tyneside Homes
South Tyneside Council Fleet Management
Reference
ST10
Delivery objective
Introduce a Mobile Working Solution within Handy Estates to allow route optimisation, reducing overall fuel usage across the section.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Formulate a project group to facilitate the review and implementation
Develop an action plan highlighting key milestones/ objectives/ timeframes
Agree specification/ requirements of the service area
Agree options to link in with existing new technologies
Ensure the systems introduced will bring fuel and resource efficiencies
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
STH - ICT
STH Handy Estates
Reference
ST11
Delivery objective
Introduction of vehicle tracking systems across South Tyneside Homes Fleet.
What South Tyneside Council will do
Service requirements and specifications agreed and forwarded to STC Fleet
Agree and finalise preferred procurement route including undertaking procurement
Finalise and award tender on most compliant bidder
Install tracking system and monitor to ensure efficiencies are undertaken
Estimated CO2 impact
Low
Owner
South Tyneside Homes
South Tyneside Council Fleet Management
Employees looking at data on a laptop

Theme 7 - Procurement

Tackling and adapting to the impact of climate change has gained significant traction over the last year, with many Local Authorities declaring climate change emergencies.

The Council procures a significant amount of goods and services every year, it is therefore imperative that we utilise the procurement process effectively to help address the impacts of climate change.

In our role as community leader we have direct connections with businesses and service providers, community groups and households by virtue of the services we provide.

We must embrace this opportunity effectively integrating the consideration of carbon emission reductions across procurement activities.

Developing robust and practical approaches in procurement specifications and evaluation processes can help address this, increasing the degree in which we can effectively influence emission reductions, while increasing sustainable processes across our buildings and services.

The Council is committed to minimising the environmental impacts of goods, services and work that it procures, ensuring that procurement activities are completed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way.

The Council has already implemented a number of improvement measures across procurement activities by:

  • Ensuring the Council’s Corporate Procurement Strategy guidelines refers all procurement proposals to the Climate Change Lead to review and ensure consideration is given to the integration of environmental approaches, supporting sustainability and carbon emission reductions in the procurement of goods and services
  • Including a specific section within the procurement contracting template focused specifically on sustainability and community benefit considerations

The Council will continue to implement innovative approaches that support the reduction off carbon emissions by:

  • Improving procurement specifications to increase sustainability across the supply chain, encouraging suppliers and contractors to offer and provide sustainable products and services to help improve environmental performance
  • Taking all necessary steps to ensure that goods and services are procured from sustainable sources minimising environmental impacts from the products and services procured
  • Implementing principles of waste minimisation, recycling and re-use
  • Maximising social benefits, through community benefit clauses in contracts where appropriate to improve the local environment

Delivery actions

Reference
PR1
Delivery objective
South Tyneside Council will work with colleagues and partners to encourage and embed sustainable procurement policies and procedures, ensuring the delivery of sustainable procurement practices that support carbon emission reduction activities, while driving environmental improvements across the Council
What South Tyneside Council will do
A review of current procurement policies and procedures will be completed, identifying opportunities for the delivery of improvements, to ensure best practice delivery in relation to sustainability and carbon reduction activities
Ensure tender specifications have a clear focus on the delivery of sustainable products and services supporting the Council climate change objective towards carbon neutrality
Establish and embed a review and evaluation process with the Council’s Climate Change Team to maximise the delivery of sustainability and carbon emission reductions proposed in tenders
The Council will use its role to share best practice approaches with partners to support the delivery of improved sustainability and carbon reductions through procurement activities
Identify and procure low carbon/renewable solutions (where appropriate) to minimise environmental impacts
Ensure procurement activities support the reduction of single-use plastic and waste minimisation, while increasing recycling and re-use from the goods and services procured
Ensure (where possible) that goods are procured from sustainable locally sourced suppliers
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Corporate Procurement Service
Climate Change Team
Reference
PR2
Delivery objective
Effectively use the National Themes, Outcomes and Measurement Framework (TOMs), embedding social values into procurement and management processes
What South Tyneside Council will do
The Council will utilise the National TOMs Framework (where appropriate) to integrate social values as part of day to day business, developing initiatives to improve the environment, reduce environmental impacts, including emission reductions, while promoting a culture of reduce, reuse and recycle
The Council will utilise the use of social benefit clauses (where appropriate and in line with Public Sector Procurement Regulations) to support the delivery of environmental improvements, sustainability, emission reduction and carbon offsetting
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Corporate Procurement Service
Employees having a meeting around policy

Theme 8 - Policy

Radical changes are needed to address climate change. We are facing two unprecedented challenges:

  • We must dramatically reduce our carbon emissions
  • We need to prepare for unavoidable environmental impacts by building climate resilience into our systems and services

Local Authorities directly emit only a small percentage of UK’s carbon emissions. However, the power to influence uniquely places the Council at the heart of place-shaping work.

We can effectively use our position to bring together leadership and direction, developing a framework with clear ambition supporting the drive towards carbon neutrality across future developments.

The decisions that we make now and in the future will play a vital role in protecting local populations, local authority services, infrastructure and finances, while securing new local economic opportunities. To make a real difference we will need planning powers and easier access to Government funding, to truly mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Tackling the causes of climate change, and preparing for its impacts, touches on all aspects of society, for these reasons we need strong and effective policies sitting at the heart of our decision making processes. It is essential that policies are clear and robust, focused on drastically reducing carbon emissions across the Council’s buildings and operations, while ensuring we effectively build climate resilience into our systems and services.

The decisions we make must:

  • Promote activity on climate change, demonstrating leadership at local and national levels
  • Promote low carbon design approaches to reduce energy consumption in new and existing buildings, ensuring future developments are designed to avoid risks through suitable and sustainable adaptation measures providing sufficient resilience
  • Raise the profile and implementation of carbon reduction and adaptations across Council buildings
  • Vigorously promote small and large scale renewable energy projects
  • Develop and embed good practice, undertaking initiatives that support joint working opportunities, while sharing experience, skills and ideas to support the reduction in emissions

Delivery actions

Reference
PO1
Delivery objective
The Council will work to understand the impacts of its current policies on the environment and carbon emissions
What South Tyneside Council will do
A review of current Council policies and procedures will be completed to establish current impacts on carbon reduction and sustainability
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
PO2
Delivery objective
Ensure carbon management and sustainability is built into Council policies and delivery practices
What South Tyneside Council will do
Realign relevant policies, procedures and report structures to strengthen and support the delivery of carbon reductions and improved sustainability across the Council
Establish an internal appraisal process of any new proposed activity/delivery function to ensure a consistent and clear measurement process is established across the Council, understanding carbon emission/environmental impacts
Estimated CO2 impact
Low/Medium
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
PO3
Delivery objective
Encourage the adoption of polices that reflect the environment and climate emergency in the Council’s emerging Local Plan
What South Tyneside Council will do
Promote low carbon design approaches to support energy and emission reductions in new and future developments, while ensuring sustainable adaptations, wherever possible to provide sufficient resilience
Provide opportunities for renewable and low carbon technologies
Provide opportunities for new developments to connect to proposed decentralised energy and heating networks
Direct future developments towards sustainable locations reducing the need to travel, maximising the use of alternative and more sustainable modes of travel
Protect and enhance the natural environment by protecting wildlife corridors wherever possible enhancing biodiversity, while increasing the resilience of wildlife to climate change
Avoid wherever possible developments in areas currently or at future risk of flooding, prioritising the use of multi-functional sustainable drainage systems
Ensure new developments provide the opportunity for the charging of vehicles at home and at work
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium/High
Owner
Planning Team
New street lighting in South Tyneside

Theme 9 - Adaptation

The world’s climate is changing, even if all emissions ceased today, the climate would still continue to change as a result of historic emissions.

UK Climate Projection Met Office 2018 headline results set out a range of possible outcomes over the next century based on different rates of GHG emissions into the atmosphere. The high emission scenario (closely matches to the current global emissions trajectory) shows:

  • Summer temperatures could be up to 5.4°C hotter by 2070
  • Winters could be up to 4.2°C warmer
  • The chance of a summer as hot as 2018 is around 50% by 2050
  • Average summer rainfall could decrease by up to 47% by 2070, while there could be up to 35% more precipitation in winter
  • Sea levels are projected to rise over the 21st century under all emission scenarios

England’s legislative adaptation, and mitigation, framework is primarily set out in the Climate Change Act 2008. The Act places legal requirements on the UK Government to assess and report climate change risks; along with implementing a national programme of adaptations.

Local authorities have a significant role to play. Climate change adaptation plays a major part in the Council’s existing and emerging local plan. Effective measures such as the implementation of sustainable drainage systems play a key role in adapting to a changing climate, by helping to minimise the impacts of flash flooding events, while coupling as an ecological network supporting biodiversity and the on-going development of the natural environment.

It is important that the Council implements adaptation actions across a range of key areas, including:

  • Buildings and services
  • Corporate plans, policies and performance
  • Natural capital assets (e.g. soil, air, water)
  • Infrastructure
  • Land use, planning and the built environment
  • Public health, social care and community resilience
  • Local leadership role on climate adaptation Progress to date

Progress to date

  • Installation of Littlehaven Sea Wall and Promenade, providing an effective sea defence, that offers long-term protection
  • Innovative flood risk alleviation schemes at Fellgate and Monkton addressing flood risk issues, utilising sustainable drainage techniques

Future plans

  • Integrate adaptation measures into Council plans, policies and strategies
  • Undertake climate change risk assessment, gathering data on past weather events to identify key areas of risk
  • Work with the Environment Agency to update shoreline management plans, to help understand future requirements in relation to flood defences

Delivery actions

Reference
AD1
Delivery objective
Ensure the resilience and adaptation of Council Buildings and Infrastructure
What South Tyneside Council will do
Ensure (wherever possible) that buildings and infrastructure adapt to future climatic challenges
Identify areas for implementation of climate adaptation measures across Council plans, policies and strategies
Investigate and implement effective water management systems through the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems, providing a multi-functional benefit for storing/reusing surface water, reducing the risk of surface water flooding, while enhancing where possible the development of the natural environment and increased biodiversity
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Asset Management Team
Planning Team
Highways Team
Regeneration Team
Climate Change Team
Environmental Protection Team
Reference
AD2
Delivery objective
Work with key Stakeholders on Coastal and River Protection measures to help identify and adapt areas at risk through climatic changes
What South Tyneside Council will do
Work with the Environment Agency to update Shoreline Management Plan to establish and understand future risks and requirements in relation to flood risk areas and flood defence requirements
Identify and implement additional measures (where feasible) that supports the utilisation of natural coastline and river protection measures to help alleviate storm surges and flooding events, while enhancing and developing the natural environment
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Environmental Protection Team
Reference
AD3
Delivery objective
Ensure wherever possible that the natural environment plays a key role in climate change adaptation requirements
What South Tyneside Council will do
Promote and facilitate the adaptation of the natural environment to ensure resilience to future climate change events
Enhance the natural environment by increased tree planting, to provide a critical source in absorbing and retaining rainfall to help alleviate flood risks
Ensure future landscaping and planting takes into consideration, the future impacts of a changing climate, implementing sustainable adaptation measures
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Planning Team
Environmental
Protection Team
Countryside Team
Reference
AD4
Delivery objective
Delivery of a Climate Adaptation Education and Awareness Programme
What South Tyneside Council will do
Encourage and support (where possible) businesses, residents, partners and other organisations through increased awareness on the future challenges that maybe presented by climate change, highlighting actions that can be taken to prepare and adapt to a changing climate
Investigate and implement activities that will help promote awareness to help ensure a resilient Borough
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Environmental Protection Team
Climate Change Team
A group having a stand up disscussion around a flip chart board

Theme 10 - Cultural change and awareness

Education and awareness is an essential element in our response towards climate change. It helps us understand and address the impact of global warming, while encouraging changes in attitudes and behaviours across the Council.

Raising awareness on climate change will help inform decision-making, while supporting the essential development of robust processes, policies and procedures focused clearly on mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Building a wider understanding on the impacts of climate change is widely seen as a critical foundation for change and one, which we must all embrace.

It is the role of everyone across the Council to play their part, supporting the Council in achieving their climate change goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.

Progress to Date

  • Delivered a Climate Change Workshop to Officers across key delivery areas
  • Delivered Climate Change Presentation to Members
  • Implemented Energy Management Toolkit providing advice to employees on how to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions

Future plans

  • Identify key Climate Change Leads across key delivery groups within the Council
  • Embed climate change in the Council’s Induction Process
  • Develop climate change information section on the Council’s Intranet Site
  • Develop a concise communication plan on climate change, informing employees of their roles and responsibilities in supporting emissions reductions
  • Develop on-line training platform on Climate Change for employees to complete
  • Embed climate change targets across service delivery areas
  • Provide regular updates on climate change activities and the impacts being delivered
  • Hold annual climate change week across the Council
  • Develop an on-line Carbon Counter tracking progress towards 2030

Delivery actions

Reference
CA1
Delivery objective
Employees will be educated and fully informed about their role in effectively supporting the Council in delivering and implementing actions that bring about change, striving towards carbon neutrality by 2030 across Council buildings and operations
What South Tyneside Council will do
Implement the Council’s climate change emergency objectives within the induction programme, informing new employees of their role in supporting the delivery of carbon neutrality
Implement climate change as a key delivery objective within the Council’s annual appraisal process
Embed climate change as a standard agenda item on team meetings to share ideas, highlight potential impacts in relation to emission increases/ reductions, while establishing a gateway back to the climate change team for follow-up action as and when required
Establish a climate change inbox within the Council allowing employees to highlight opportunities or areas for further investigation on climate related issues
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Human Resources
Service Managers
Reference
CA2
Delivery objective
Everyone in the Council has access to climate change information to support knowledge and understanding of the challenges being faced in relation to climate change and the actions that must be taken to deliver improvements
What South Tyneside Council will do
Provide a programme of education and training activities across the Council to inform employees on the challenges being faced on climate change and their role in supporting the delivery of carbon reduction improvements
Establish a range of delivery methods to successfully engage all employees, establishing communication/ engagement tools to support employees learning on climate change
Produce a climate change toolkit providing tips and guidance on actions that support energy/carbon reductions
Further develop the Council’s climate change intranet page, providing regular updates on activities taking place that are driving and delivering reductions in carbon emissions
Provide updates to employees in relation to the Council emission position, keeping employees fully informed of how the Council is performing in relation to challenging reduction targets
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Communication Team
Digital and ICT Services
Reference
CA3
Delivery objective
Climate change awareness and engagement campaigns will take place across the Council to effectively engage employees in the delivery of improvement programmes
What South Tyneside Council will do
Identify and establish climate change champions across the Council to act as a facilitator and key lead across service areas to share ideas and provide regular updates on the Council’s position in relation to the climate change agenda
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Climate Change Champions
Reference
CA4
Delivery objective
A clear and concise climate change communication strategy will be produced providing a consistent and structured approach supporting the delivery of carbon reduction and improvements
What South Tyneside Council will do
A concise communication strategy will be produced establishing a clear delivery framework focused on raising awareness and communicating actions that bring about change embedding a clear message in relation to the drive towards carbon neutrality
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Communication Team
Digital and ICT Services
People gathered on a grassy hill, watching a performance on a band stand

Theme 11 - Championing a carbon neutral future

Millions of people throughout the world, especially young people are calling on leaders to do more to address the climate emergency we face.

Choosing the path towards change is not the job of one person, one Council, one Government, we are all in this together. If we want to change, we must be that change.

As a local leader we have an important role to play, when addressing the impacts of climate change. We must demonstrate strong local leadership, forging partnerships, while mobilising communities, businesses and society to help address the impacts of climate change.

We must call upon the Government to increase the powers of Local Authorities through clear national policies on climate change, providing the necessary resources to be able to deliver them effectively. We must ensure public participation, consulting local people on proposed projects that support reductions in our emissions. By working together we can turn good ideas into tangible results, tackling the impacts of climate change in a joined up and strategic way.

We understand that South Tyneside Council has an important leadership role in creating a low carbon, climate resilient future.

We will strive towards achieving this by:

  • Ensuring transparency and accountability towards the Council’s goals and actions, providing progress against our set targets
  • Representing and advocating for change at National, Regional and Local levels
  • Representing local concern and viewpoints in relation to climate change
  • Communicating, engaging and listening to our community
  • Work across different sectors to facilitate and encourage co-ordinated action
  • Providing vision and direction to local groups, building support for that vision
  • Identify and advocate opportunities that support wider community activities in relation to addressing the impacts of climate change and emission reductions
  • Encouraging and empowering residents and businesses to participate and act in the fight towards climate change

We must think local and act global, the fight against climate change must be fought by everyone or it cannot be fought at all.

Delivery actions

Reference
CF1
Delivery objective
The Council will play a key role championing a carbon neutral future by working with local communities, businesses, organisations and individuals to support reductions in carbon emissions and waste
What South Tyneside Council will do
Promote and raise awareness on the impacts of climate change through various communication channels, adopting low carbon lifestyles
Deliver Climate Change Convention in 2020
Provide on-line resources, tips and support tools on the South Tyneside Council’s website highlighting the actions that can be taken to support reductions in carbon emissions and energy use, while supporting the development of a natural and thriving environment
Raise awareness in ways to improve energy efficiency across homes and businesses, reducing consumption through improved energy behaviours, reducing cost, consumption and emissions
Promote and encourage sustainable travel, supporting an increase in the number of people that utilise public transport, cycling and walking as a means of getting around, reducing emissions, whilst improving air quality
The Council will raise awareness in relation to the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling waste effectively, reducing waste going to landfill
Estimated CO2 impact
Medium
Owner
Climate Change Team
Strategic Transport Team
Communication Team
Waste Team
Digital and ICT Services
Reference
CF2
Delivery objective
The Council will help encourage local partnership initiatives supporting the delivery of environmental improvements, striving towards a sustainable, lowcarbon future
What South Tyneside Council will do
The Council will (where possible) work with local community groups to help develop local initiatives focused on carbon reduction, sustainability, bio-diversity, supporting a thriving and low carbon environment across South Tyneside
Support the development of identified funding applications to help secure financial support (where possible) against community initiatives identified that align to the Council’s climate change initiatives
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Reference
CF3
Delivery objective
The Council will support and work with local businesses and training providers to raise awareness on the issues surrounding climate change, establishing actions that help drive and deliver improvements and carbon reductions
What South Tyneside Council will do
Develop webpage to provide information and support on driving carbon reductions across businesses
Deliver workshops to local businesses on actions that support emission reductions and environmental improvements
Estimated CO2 impact
Indirect
Owner
Climate Change Team
Business and Skills Team
Communication Team
Digital and ICT Services

Governance

The scale of the climate change challenge we face is unprecedented. This is a challenge like no other, one in which the totality of the solutions needed may prove to be impossible.

To meet the ambitious targets of the Council’s climate change emergency motion will require focus, ambition and a willingness to change at every level.

This Strategy and Action Plan brings together the strategic activities required to reduce carbon emissions across the Council.

The delivery objectives have been structured based on key themed areas. Each theme has a summary of actions established, which are found within the action plan.

The Climate Change Action Plan provides a detailed breakdown of the actions proposed that will help meet the delivery objectives within the key themed areas.

To assess the overall impact of activities undertaken, it is essential that a robust governance structure is established to help monitor the effectiveness of the actions identified and being delivered, ensuring they are being effectively met.

Governance structure

  1. Council
  2. Cabinet
  3. Place Select Committee
  4. Strategy and Action Plan
    1. Member Working Group
    2. Working Group Officer Working Group

Themed Delivery Objectives

The Strategy is organised around 11 key delivery themes, each with identified teams/stakeholders responsible for the delivery of the actions.

Officers Working Group

The Officers Working Group will provide a coordinated approach across the themed areas and the Council, monitoring and reporting on progress, while identifying any risks for further investigation.

Members Working Group

The Members Working Group will receive regular detailed updates on the key themed areas within the strategy, significant project development and awareness of best practice. This group will act as champions and help support and influence behavioural change across the Borough.

Place Select Committee

Progress against the strategy and action plan will be scrutinised by the Place Select Committee mid-year. The Committee will provide any relevant advice and recommendations to Cabinet in relation to the Strategy.

Cabinet

The Officers Working Group will provide six monthly updates to the Place Select Committee detailing progress against the strategy and action plan. A combined annual report will be provided to Cabinet for endorsement and recommendation to full Council with key recommendations requiring changes to the strategy or action plan.

Council

Council will receive the annual report, consider any implications and be asked to approve any required changes to the strategy and action plan.

A teacher showing climate statistics on a computer to a student

Monitoring and reporting

The Council has made a pledge to take all necessary steps to make South Tyneside Council carbon neutral by 2030.

The Climate Change Strategy and supporting 5 year Action Plan, identifies key delivery themes, supported by tasks that will help deliver our ambitious target towards carbon neutrality.

Our reduction targets will be measured against our carbon emissions in the baseline year of 2018/19. A monitoring and reporting framework will help the Council effectively monitor and report on progress being made, establishing a quarterly monitoring and reporting cycle, across each of the key delivery themes.

The monitoring cycle will help capture our overall position on a regular basis, while identifying any potential risks early on so action can be taken.

A detailed update report to full Council will be completed on an annual basis, setting out performance against agreed actions, while providing information on any changes required to ensure we are on target towards meeting our delivery objectives.

An annual update will also be provided on the Council’s website.