Local authorities and the drive to net zero

Achieving net zero demands tailored local initiatives, and local authorities are vital in driving this mission forward.

Local authorities are directly responsible for up to 5% of their local area’s emissions, according to the Climate Change Committee*. Yet, despite this relatively small percentage, it is still a critical amount, and local governments possess a wide array of powers, duties, and influence crucial for broader emissions reductions and climate adaptation.

Their roles encompass a variety of functions, including supporting the economic, health and social wellbeing of communities, managing planning and building regulations, ensuring buildings meet energy efficiency and safety standards, and managing climate risks such as flooding. Local authorities also have responsibilities to protect the environment and manage waste on behalf of their residents, all of which are instrumental in addressing climate change at a granular level.

Decarbonising buildings, transportation, and waste management are all tasks that demand local execution. The effectiveness of these measures relies heavily on the local context, and so a customised approach must be taken.

To navigate the complex road to net zero carbon, local authorities can benefit from the expertise of strategic partners like Norse Group, the UK’s largest Local Authority Trading Company (LATCo) and a leader in property consultancy and facilities management. Norse Group’s comprehensive net zero carbon journey provides a structured pathway for local governments, helping them to align their strategies with sustainability goals effectively.

1. Strategic vision
Norse Group helps local authorities refine their asset management strategies and develop a detailed action plan based on energy and building data.

2. Assessment and prioritisation
Norse Group conduct energy and carbon assessments to establish baselines and develop decarbonisation plans, supporting funding applications like the Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund.

3. Feasibility
Norse Group ensures project viability with feasibility studies and building assessments, helping identify renewable energy sources and efficient solutions while preparing Full Business Cases for funding.

4. Design and delivery
Norse Group provides specialist design services, manages procurement, and oversees cost control, ensuring projects meet sustainability standards through ongoing assessments.

5. In operation
Post-delivery, Norse Group continues to support local authorities with performance monitoring, energy management, and annual reporting to keep net zero goals on track.

With Norse Group’s expertise and guidance, local authorities can transform their sustainability ambitions into actionable results, driving meaningful progress towards a net zero future.

To learn more about our impactful projects, view our case studies here.

*Climate Change Committee, Local Authorities and the Sixth Carbon Budget, December 2020