We publish a climate change and biodiversity report annually, which details the actions we have taken (or will take).
You can also read our:
What we're doing to combat climate change
Following the declaration of a climate emergency in 2019, we set up a joint Environment and Climate Change Task Force, to look at the climate challenge we face.
Following engagement with environmental experts, the task force presented their recommendations to both Councils in July 2020.
The proposals were unanimously approved and - following this - our Carbon Reduction Management Plan was formed:
Read our Carbon Reduction Management Plan
You can also read the Plan's appendix, which provides further detail on the actions we will carry out.
A subcommittee of the task force then looked at biodiversity in the districts, and presented their recommendations to both Councils in November 2020.
Following this, our Biodiversity Action Plan was formed. This Plan details how we aim to protect and strengthen plant life and local wildlife within the districts.
Read our Biodiversity Action Plan
You can also read more about what we're doing to promote wildlife and biodiversity in the districts.
The Suffolk Climate Change Partnership (SCCP) consists of:
- Suffolk County Council
- West Suffolk
- East Suffolk
- Ipswich Borough Council
- Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
- the Environment Agency
Partners work with other local organisations, too - such as Groundwork Suffolk and the University of Suffolk.
The partners have a shared interest in supporting Suffolk’s communities, businesses and residents to reduce carbon emissions.
In 2019, the SCCP's local authority members declared a ‘climate emergency’. We are committed to working together, and we aim to make Suffolk carbon neutral by 2030.
We already support several schemes, which confront this global issue at a local level.
Connected for Warmth
Connected for Warmth is an award-winning grant scheme offering FREE energy-saving measures to homes across Britain, that can help you reduce your energy use and stay warm and well.
Warm Homes Fund
National Grid and Affordable Warmth Solutions launched a £150m Warm Homes Fund to support local authorities in helping fuel poor households.
Councils in Suffolk were awarded funding to install central heating systems in fuel poor households.
You can visit our Warm Homes Suffolk page for more information.
Fuel poverty
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) requires large energy companies to improve the energy efficiency of domestic homes, by discounting the cost of improvement works. This applies to some households who are struggling to pay their energy bills and are in fuel poverty.
Councils in Suffolk have jointly published criteria in a Statement of Intent, which enables us to identify households that would benefit from this discount. Improvements are often fully funded when the household meets certain criteria, and are at risk of fuel poverty.
Suffolk Carbon Charter
The Carbon Charter is an award, local to Suffolk, which recognises carbon reduction measures taken by small and medium businesses in the county.
Recycling and improved refuse collections
Visit the Suffolk Recycles website to learn about reducing, reusing and recycling in Suffolk.
No waste in the county goes to landfill. Anything that can't be recycled goes to Suffolk's energy-from-waste facility, which powers 30,000 homes.
In 2019, we rerouted our waste collection rounds. This was to ensure that our collection service is more fuel efficient.
Greenways Countryside Project
Greenways Countryside Project volunteers help to protect and enhance our countryside. They work from an area of about 100 square kilometres in and around Ipswich.
Paperless billing on bills
We offer residents and businesses the ability to go paperless with their Council Tax and Business Rates bills.
Planning pre-application advice/guidance
As the ‘go to’ department for information regarding sustainability, carbon and energy reduction we can offer pre-application advice to enable applications to be right first time as well as achieving the best possible outcome for the applicant and the Council in terms of climate change mitigation and energy efficiency. Please visit the pre-application pages, if you are looking to submit a planning application.
Business and householder advice, funding and support
The Climate change partnership has advice and information regarding available grants
Households can find additional information at the Energy Saving Trust website or from the Suffolk Climate and Energy Helpline - Tel 0800 02 88 938.
Communities can find information about making local energy work
Making small, simple changes to the food you eat, how much waste your household produces, and the way you travel can all reduce your carbon footprint.
The resources listed below may help you
- Get involved with FoodSavvy Suffolk
- Use Suffolk's Carbon Footprint calculator
- Plan your journeys
- Help Suffolk's Wildlife
- Find your nearest reusable water bottle refill station
- Discover volunteering opportunities in your area
- Find out more about green communities already in Suffolk
How can I share my ideas - or get support for my community - to combat climate change?
We are always keen to hear your ideas, suggestions and offers of help.