Local government performance framework
NI 185 - Percentage CO2 reduction from LA operations
The public sector is in a key position to lead on efforts to reduce CO2 emissions by setting a behavioural and strategic example to the private sector and the communities they serve. The way in which the local authority delivers its functions can achieve CO2 emissions reductions.
The aim of this indicator is to measure the progress of local authorities in reducing CO2 emissions from the relevant buildings and transport used to deliver their functions and to encourage them to demonstrate leadership on tackling climate change.
Measurement against this indicator requires each local authority to calculate its CO2 emissions from analysis of the energy and fuel use in their relevant buildings and transport, including where these services have been outsourced.
There are a number of documents to support local authorities use of NI185:
NB: This guidance was updated on 17 July 2008. The update concerned two elements. First, clarity on the reporting system in two-tier areas. Second, a change in the reporting year from a calendar year to a financial year basis. The first report to Defra is now due on 31 July 2009. Further information will follow on how this is to be provided.
- Defra has developed a spreadsheet tool (Excel 900 KB) to capture information on CO2 emissions from buildings and transport. The output sheet in the tool allows LAs to assess progress against the indicator. This tool must be used to report information to Defra.
- Defra commissioned a research project (PDF 300 KB) to inform the development of its proposals for the LA estate climate change performance indicator. The final report of the original research project (which is also relevant to the methodology for measuring reductions of CO2, and NOx and PM10 for purposes of the Air quality Indicator NI 194 ) from Local Authority operations.
Further Information
- Local authorities with technical questions about the indicator should contact their regional Government Office or the Audit Commission for help and assistance.
- The Carbon Trust currently provides support to LAs to guide them through the process of calculating carbon footprints and to help them develop carbon reduction plans.
- Salix is an independent, publicly funded company that provides interest-free match funding to the public sector to invest in energy efficiency measures and technologies that will reduce carbon emissions.
Page published: 29 July 2008