Shropshire Council’s carbon emissions fall by a third since 2019

Shropshire Council is making real progress in cutting carbon emissions, with reductions of more than a third since 2019, a new report shows.

The council’s 2025 Carbon Monitoring Report also shows that for the first time since the pandemic emissions have fallen below 40,000 tonnes of CO₂, down 10,000 tonnes from 2024.

The report – which lists progress, ongoing challenges, and current initiatives for further emission cuts – says that the drop in net emissions is largely thanks to smarter spending and a big reduction in emissions from products and services the council buys in – which are down by 20% compared to last year.

In total, Shropshire Council has cut its net emissions by 35% over the last seven years— which is about 20,000 tonnes of CO2.

David Vasmer, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for the environment, said:

“This latest report shows that Shropshire Council is making real progress in cutting emissions, with reductions of more than a third since 2019. While we’re proud of these achievements, we know the journey to net zero is challenging and requires continued effort from all of us.

“Our innovative projects, like the biochar and carbon capture plant, and improvements across our buildings, fleet, and supply chain, demonstrate our commitment to a greener future. We will keep pushing forward to accelerate progress and deliver on our climate ambitions for the county.”

Initiatives and activities that have helped to make these carbon savings include:

• Flexible working arrangements mean buildings and office space are used more efficiently, helping to save energy and reduce travel.
• Council buildings now have better insulation and double glazing, along with upgraded heating and electrical systems. Solar panels have been installed, so buildings can generate clean, renewable electricity.
•  Traditional streetlights are being replaced with LED lamps, which use less electricity and help save energy every year.
• The council’s transport fleet now includes electric vehicles, with new charging points making it easier to use cleaner transport.
• Since declaring a climate emergency, over 130,000 trees have been planted, bringing huge environmental benefits. Recycling rates have gone up, and new initiatives are helping to reuse workplace equipment.

The report says that at the current rate of progress to date Shropshire Council will most likely get to NET-zero by 2040, though it could achieve this target by 2035 if emissions are reduced by 8% per year.

For more information on the council’s carbon monitoring visit the Shropshire Council website.

For more information on Shropshire Councils response to the Climate Emergency; follow this link or email climate@shropshire.gov.uk.