A report to the forthcoming meeting of Falkirk Council's Executive (10 October) highlights the progress made in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions, achieving a 33% reduction in its carbon footprint for the financial year 2023/24. This is the largest annual decrease in emissions since reporting began in 2013/14.
The latest update to the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan (CEAP), highlights the actions that have contributed to the reduction in emissions with total emissions dropping from 36,963 tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2022-23 to 24,647 tonnes in 2023-24.
One of the primary contributors to this reduction has been the council’s Waste to Energy contract. This contract has replaced landfill with safe incineration to convert residual waste into energy, reducing emissions by approximately 95%.
Paul Kettrick, Head of Investment, Assets, and Climate at Falkirk Council said:
"The Waste to Energy project has delivered a significant reduction in emissions, helping us to make steady progress towards our long-term climate goals. The report goes into detail of the many other actions we are taking and we are optimistic that elected members will welcome this progress during their discussions."
Falkirk Council is currently working towards a 75% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, in line with Scottish Government targets. According to the latest figures, the council is 92% of the way towards achieving this target, with several ongoing projects expected to help close the remaining gap.
The report also notes that, in addition to the Waste to Energy contract, the closure or transfer of council buildings under the Strategic Property Review and changes in energy use behaviours have also contributed to the reduction in emissions.
Greening the fleet and public buildings
Falkirk Council has also invested in greening its fleet and improving energy efficiency in public buildings. In 2024/25, the council has allocated £3.2 million to purchase around 80 electric vehicles. This will reduce emissions from council operations and support the transition to a lower-carbon transport system.
Energy efficiency improvements are ongoing across the Council’s estate, including upgrades to heating systems and the installation of renewable energy technologies. These efforts are in line with Scottish Government goals to decarbonise public buildings by 2038.
The report also seeks approval for £45,000 in funding over the next three years to support the Forth Climate Forest (FCF). This initiative, launched in 2023, aims to plant 16 million trees across the Forth Valley area, offsetting carbon emissions and mitigating flood risks.