Agenda Document Pack - Climate Change and Sustainability Committee - 20/08/2025
Perth and Kinross Council · 20 August 2025
Back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee — 20 August 2025 and its agenda
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Ambition | Compassion | Integrity Our vision is for a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality Council Building 2 High Street Perth PH1 5PH 13/08/2025 A hybrid meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee will be held in the Council Chamber on Wednesday, 20 August 2025 at 09:30. If you have any queries please contact Democratic Services on (01738) 475000 or email Committee@pkc.gov.uk. THOMAS GLEN Chief Executive Those attending the meeting are requested to ensure that all notifications are silent on their device and other devices are in silent mode. Please note that the meeting will be broadcast online and recorded. The recording will be publicly available on the Council’s website following the meeting. Members: Councillor Richard Watters (Convener) Councillor Liz Barrett (Vice-Convener) Councillor Hugh Anderson Councillor Dave Cuthbert Councillor Angus Forbes Councillor David Illingworth Councillor Noah Khogali Councillor Grant Laing Depute Provost Andrew Parrott Councillor Grant Stewart Councillor Jack Welch Page 1 of 240
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Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Wednesday, 20 August 2025 Agenda Members are reminded of their obligation to declare any financial or non- financial interest which they may have in any item on this agenda in accordance with the councillors’ code of conduct. 1 WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3 MINUTE OF MEETING OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE OF 30 APRIL 2025 FOR APPROVAL (copy herewith) 5 - 6 4 OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STATEMENT (copy herewith 25/204) 7 - 8 5 ANNUAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS UPDATE Report by Strategic Lead - Environment and Infrastructure (copy herewith 25/205) 9 - 18 6 GREEN LIVING FUND - ROUND 2 Report by Strategic Lead - Environment and Infrastructure (copy herewith 25/206) 19 - 24 7 PERTH AIR QUALITY ACTION PLAN Report by Strategic Lead - Housing and Communities (copy herewith 25/207) 25 - 136 8 WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE AND DRAFT CIRCULAR ECONOMY STRATEGY CONSULTATION DOCUMENT Report by Strategic Lead - Environment and Infrastructure (copy herewith 25/208) 137 - 240 Page 3 of 240
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DRAFT Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Minute of hybrid meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee held in the Council Chambers on 30 April 2025 at 9.30am. Present: Councillors R Watters, L Barrett, H Anderson, D Cuthbert, A Forbes, D Illingworth, N Khogali, G Laing, A Parrott, G Stewart and J Welch. In Attendance: C Mailer, Depute Chief Executive; F Crofts, Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure; A Clegg, A O’Connell, C Bachell, M Morgan (all Housing & Communities) (up to and including Item 4); N Taylor, D Grant, P Leonard, H Wilson (all Environment and Infrastructure); K Rough (Strategic Planning, People and Performance); S Hendry, A Taylor, A Brown and M Pasternak (all Legal and Governance). Councillor R Watters, Convener, Presiding. The Convener led on Items 1-5, with Vice-Convener L Barrett on Item 6. 1. Welcome And Apologies Councillor Watters welcomed everyone to the meeting. There were no apologies for absence. 2. Declarations Of Interest There were no Declarations of Interest made in terms of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct. 3. Minute Of Meeting of Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Of 23 October 2024 The minute of meeting of Climate Change and Sustainability Committee of 23 October 2024 was submitted and approved as correct record. 4. Ash Dieback Strategy There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Housing and Communities (25/95) setting out the proposed strategy for addressing the risks of the widespread Ash Dieback disease, focusing on environmental impacts, public safety, and resource management for both Council managed land and private land near public roads. Resolved: (i) The approach and proposals as set out in Appendix 1 to Report 25/95 to identify and effectively deal with diseased trees on Council managed land, and those affecting the adopted road network, in a prioritised way over a 5- year period, be agreed. (ii) Note that revenue resources have been allocated for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years and that further resources will need to be approved to complete the proposed 5-year programme. 3 Page 5 of 240
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DRAFT 5. Fleet Decarbonisation Strategy There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure (25/96) advising on the progress being made on plans for decarbonisation of the Council’s transport fleet, including transitioning from petrol and diesel vehicles to Low Emission Vehicles (LEVs) in line with Scottish Government guidance and seeking approval for the proposed way forward. Motion by Councillors R Watters and L Barrett To accept the recommendations as set out in the report. (There Followed a Brief Recess and the Meeting Reconvened at 11.15am). Amendment by Councillors D Illingworth and A Forbes In accordance with the Motion, however, to revise Recommendation 2.3 as follows: This Committee is asked to approve the principle of redirecting the funds, estimated at £100k, for the use of HVO across the Council’s entire HGV fleet to enhancing rural bus routes and that the financial decision for this is subject to approval at the Finance and Resources Committee. In terms of Standing Order 21 a roll call was taken. 7 Members voted for the Motions as follows: Councillors L Barrett, D Cuthbert, G Laing, A Parrott, G Stewart, R Watters and J Welch. 4 Members voted for the Amendment as follows: Councillors H Anderson, A Forbes, D Illingowrth and N Khogali. Resolved: In accordance with the Motion. 6. Nature Restoration Fund 2025-2026 There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure (25/97) (1) outlining the proposed approach for utilising the Council’s allocation of the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration fund for 2025-2026, and (2) seeking approval for delegating authority to the Strategic Lead for Environment and Infrastructure to approve projects recommended by the NRF working group. Resolved: The delegation of authority to the Strategic Lead for Environment and Infrastructure to approve projects recommended by the NRF working group, using set scoring criteria to ensure best-value nature restoration across Perth and Kinross, be approved. Page 6 of 240
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CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STATEMENT (OBS) (25/204) Please note that this statement sets out outstanding decisions of this committee along with an update and estimated completion date. Actions which are overdue are shaded for ease of reference. Where an update reflects that an action is complete then the Committee’s agreement will be sought to its removal from the OBS. No Minute Reference Subject Title Outstanding Action Update Lead Officer /Service Action Due / Complete Action Expected 6. 30 April 2025 Item 5 Fleet Decarbonisation Strategy Arrange a follow-up all Elected Member briefing session/presentation/Q& A on the approach being taken to decarbonising the Council’s fleet based on the (now approved) recommendations in the report and also an update on the wider EV charging infrastructure landscape for both Council vehicles and the public more generally. EM Briefing Session arranged for Monday 29 September 2025 at 9.30am. Pat Taggart / Nigel Taylor DUE 20 August 2025 4 Page 7 of 240
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Climate Change and Sustainability Date of Meeting: 20 August 2025 Report Title: Annual Sustainable Development Progress Update Report Number: 25/205 Report Author: Angela Harris, Sustainable Development Officer Organisational Lead: Fraser Crofts, Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this Report is to provide members with an update on Perth and Kinross Council’s (PKC) progress towards delivering Sustainable Development to fulfil its reporting duties, in line with Best Value requirements. It reviews overall performance and progress in relation to the areas for improvement 2024/25, as detailed in the Sustainable Development Performance Report previously approved by the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2023 (Report No. 23/45 refers). 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendation(s) 3. Background/Context 4. Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact Value Assessment 8. Appendices 2. Recommendation It is recommended that the Committee: - 2.1 Notes the updated performance position for the Council’s compliance with the Best Value Sustainable Development duty and the continued contribution Perth and Kinross is making towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals through the Quality of Life Indicators Dashboard. 5 Page 9 of 240
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3. Background/Context 3.1 The Local Government in Scotland Act 2003 introduced a statutory framework for Best Value. It places a duty on all local authorities in Scotland to secure Best Value while discharging their duties in a way which contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development. 3.2 In February 2023, the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee approved the Sustainable Development Performance Report (Report No. 23/45 refers), which highlighted the Council’s existing performance and progress in accordance with revised statutory guidance. The report also included a number of proposals for main areas of focus for sustainable development in 2023/24. 3.3 A further report on Sustainable Development Performance covering the period 2023/24 was approved by the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2024, detailing progress made towards the areas of focus proposed previously. 3.4 An update on the performance and progress of outstanding actions from the areas of focus is included in Appendix 1. 4. Main Issues 4.1 This report covers the progress made towards the Best Value Sustainable Development duty from February 2024 onwards. The key points are summarised below. 4.2 Perth and Kinross Council continues to make steady progress in delivering sustainable development in compliance with the Best Value statutory guidance. There is a clear commitment to sustainable development as reflected in strategic priorities and objectives. This commitment is also represented by elected members and senior management adopting an integrated approach towards the impacts of decision-making on the delivery of sustainable development. Effective partnership working and engagement with stakeholders is helping to promote sustainable development within the community to raise awareness and encourage a shift towards more sustainable behaviours. Processes have been established and implemented to ensure sustainable development principles are integrated into all Council corporate and service level plans, as well as to increase awareness of sustainable development through operational practices. 4.3 The Impact and Value Assessment (IVA) was launched in May 2023 to screen the development of proposals (such as projects, strategies, policies and frameworks) against statutory and non-statutory environmental, social and economic requirements. In the 2023/24 Sustainable Development Performance Report (Report No. 24/55 refers) there was recognition that further work needed to be done to mainstream the IVA as a key stage of proposal development across the Council. Page 10 of 240
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In particular, work needed to be undertaken with Democratic Services to replace the existing Committee Report Annex template with a hyperlinked IVA summary report. 4.4 In January 2025, the IVA was included as a mandatory section of the updated Committee Report template. In the previously used annex, a report writer had to complete a number of different sections relating to impact assessments. Now by completing a single IVA form, an assessment report is automatically generated by pulling answered information directly from the form. At the same time, designated subject lead officers are alerted if an impact relating to their subject has been identified, allowing for further scrutiny, feedback, mitigation and improvement. 4.5 Another benefit to this approach allows for the report writer to be directed to the correct level of statutory assessment for both Equality and Fairness Assessment (EFIA) and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). An Impact and Value Assessment page has been set up on the Council’s website to upload and view these reports. 4.6 The IVA process captures data in relation to the different impact assessments being screened for. From the implementation period January to June 2025, a total of 95 IVA reports were submitted through the committee process, with 28 reports representing a new policy or a change to an existing policy document. 4.7 Between January to June 2025, the IVA process identified a total of 183 climate change impacts. Impact identified Climate Change theme Positive Mixed Negative Business, Industry and Supply Chains 36 3 0 Energy, Buildings and Infrastructure 25 3 0 Land Use and Land-Use Change 18 1 0 Transport and Connectivity 46 2 0 Waste and the Circular Economy 15 1 0 Climate Resilience and Engagement 30 0 1 TOTAL 170 12 1 4.8 Some examples of likely positive climate change impacts recorded include: Supporting businesses through grant funding to minimise environmental impacts and promote energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies, and promoting sustainable construction skills to support skills and green jobs Encouraging sustainable and eco-tourism where activities seek to have a minimal impact on the environment and climate change – for example, tourism businesses seeking to reduce transport and encourage active travel, use renewable energy, conserve water and reduce waste Page 11 of 240
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Supporting nature-based businesses as part of the sustainable tourism economy – for example, fisheries by installing and repairing structures such as fish ladders to help with spawning, together with restocking of fish. Supporting the funding of riparian restoration and invasive species control projects to improve water quality by reducing pollutants and sedimentation, benefitting aquaculture and fisheries by providing healthier habitats for fish and other aquatic organisms Enhancing carbon sequestration through tree planting and woodland creation projects, while supporting local forestry-based businesses in providing timber and non-timber forest products Improving climate resilience in buildings through carbon assessment, building to energy reduction standards and installing energy efficiency measures – for example, the redevelopment and refurbishment of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre Implementing regulations to support the work of current allotment sites to cultivate otherwise disused areas of Greenspace and provide a habitat for increased biodiversity as well as diversifying soil organisms to create healthier and more resilient soils, while raising community awareness around sustainable crop production and food growing Reducing overall CO2 for the Council by using green fuels or electric vehicles and investigating new technologies for fleet utilisation Planning for the construction of new active travel infrastructure to allow people to use cycling, walking and wheel for everyday journeys - reducing the overall business carbon footprint by allowing businesses to use alternative modes of transport to delivery or receive goods, for example cargo bikes School exclusion zones encouraging and making it safer for active travel to and from schools and businesses will have a positive impact on low carbon economy Funding to support projects contributing to the circular economy – such as community fridge and allotments projects to help reduce food waste and encourage tool repair, encouraging reuse of school uniforms and renovating bicycles to promote active travel Supporting nature restoration projects with volunteer engagement that educates and empowers communities about biodiversity, conservation, and climate resilience. 4.9 Under the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Council is required to carry out an assessment of the effects of a proposed plan, programme or strategy (PPS) on the environment (SEA). Page 12 of 240
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4.10 Through branched questioning, the IVA determines the level of assessment likely to be required. If significant positive or negative environmental effects are likely, a full SEA is required. If the IVA determines that the proposal is either exempt (civil emergency plans, financial or budgetary plans, or plans relating to an individual school) or does not qualify for the screening process, the proposal must still consider any likely impact to the natural environment (air and water quality; land, landscape and soil quality; and biodiversity, habitats, flora and fauna). 4.11 Between January to June 2025, the IVA process identified 4 pre-screening assessments had been undertaken with no likely environmental effects identified, 1 screening assessment with no significant environmental effects identified, and 1 full SEA to be undertaken for the Fleet Decarbonisation Strategy. 4.12 Of those proposals that were exempt or didn’t qualify for SEA, 5 identified likely positive effects towards the natural environment, including enhanced biodiversity and ecosystem health, contributing to species conservation and ecosystem resilience, encouraging sustainable land management practices, and commitment to maintaining wholesome water supplies, improving air quality and remediating contaminated land. No negative impacts were identified. 4.13 Under the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014, the Council has a duty to consider sustainable procurement as part of the procurement process. The Council is required to consider how in conducting the procurement process it can ‘improve the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of the authority's area’. 4.14 Between January to June 2025, the IVA process identified a total of 18 positive impacts, with 4 promoting social wellbeing, 9 environmental wellbeing and 5 economic wellbeing. Examples include implementing regulations that support biodiversity through the procurement and use of peat free compost (as well as composting organic waste materials on site) to reduce the extraction of peat as well as reducing the practice of removing topsoil from other areas of land and prioritising the procurement of goods and materials from sustainable sources that do not harm vulnerable ecosystems – for example, only purchasing biodegradable tree tubes. No negative impacts were identified. 5. Proposals 5.1 The main area of focus for 2025/26 will be to maximise the efficiency of the IVA process by improving the internal consultation and feedback system triggered when an impact is identified. Page 13 of 240
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5.2 Action 1.2.2 of Appendix 1 - ‘training for members and senior management on how to use the IVA for more effective scrutiny of sustainable development’, has been unable to progress while waiting for the Committee report template to be updated to include IVA. Now this is in place, training is planned towards the end of 2025. 5.3 Work will also be taken to progress all outstanding actions listed in Appendix 1. A new action plan will be developed for 2026/27. 6. Conclusion 6.1 Perth & Kinross Council continues to make steady progress in mainstreaming sustainable development throughout the Council’s processes and practices, in-line with the statutory requirements of Best Value. Good progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals continues to be monitored across Perth and Kinross using the Quality of Life Indicator Dashboard. 7. Impact Value Assessment 7.1 This report has been classified as being an operational report and as such does not require a full Impact and Value Assessment. 8. Appendices 8.1 Appendix 1 - Progress on actions detailed in the Perth & Kinross Council Best Value & Sustainable Development Progress Report 2024/25 Page 14 of 240
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APPENDIX 1 Progress on actions detailed in the Perth & Kinross Council Best Value & Sustainable Development Progress Report 2024/25 Best Value Commitment 1 Corporate commitment towards sustainable development is reflected in the Council’s vision and strategic priorities Action number Action RAG Status Feb 2023 Responsibility Timescale RAG Progress Dec 2023 1.2.2 Training for members and senior management on how to use the IVA for more effective scrutiny of sustainable development. A Training to be organised for Members and SMTs once new committee reporting template has been finalised with Committee Services. Climate Change & Sustainable Development Team End of 2025 A Now IVA is included within the Committee Report template, training can be rolled out. Expected late 2025. Best Value Commitment 2 Sustainable development considerations are embedded in the Council’s governance arrangements Action number Action RAG Status Feb 2023 Responsibility Timescale RAG Progress Dec 2023 5 Page 15 of 240
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APPENDIX 1 Progress on actions detailed in the Perth & Kinross Council Best Value & Sustainable Development Progress Report 2024/25 2.1.1 Work with the corporate improvement team to explore options for incorporating IVA and Sustainable Development guidance into the existing corporate management framework. A Climate Change & Sustainable Development Team/ Corporate Performance Team Update in 2026 A Started and ongoing. Discussions have taken place regarding the new corporate management framework. Climate Change KPIs are being uploaded and the case for sustainable development indicators to be included will be reviewed at a later date once the system is well established. Sustainable development performance indicators continue to be updated and available via the PKC Quality of Life Indicators dashboard. Best Value Commitment 3 Systematic approach to the management of resources, which are planned and used in a way that contributes to sustainable development Action number Action RAG Status February 2023 Responsibility Timescale Rag Progress December 2023 3.2.1 Provide an update on Climate Change action within Procurement Strategy. Presented as part of the Sustainable A Climate Change & Sustainable Development Team / Corporate Completed G New five-year Sustainable Procurement Strategy approved at Full Council in June 2024. Annual Procurement Report on Page 16 of 240
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APPENDIX 1 Progress on actions detailed in the Perth & Kinross Council Best Value & Sustainable Development Progress Report 2024/25 Development Progress Report 2023/24. Procurement Team progress will go to F&R Committee 1st October 2025. 3.2.2 Provide update on Procurement & Commercial Improvement Programme (PCIP) progress in relation to set climate change questions. Presented as part of the Sustainable Development Progress Report 2023/24. A Climate Change & Sustainable Development Team / Corporate Procurement Team Completed G No indication of when next round of PCIPs will take place, however actions from new strategy align with PCIP criteria. 3.2.3 Provide update on sustainable development and climate change implications in relation to the seven Public Procurement Priorities. Presented as part of the Sustainable Development Progress Report 2023/24. A Climate Change & Sustainable Development Team / Corporate Procurement Team Completed G The Public Procurement Priorities were decommissioned in April 2023 upon the publication of the Public Procurement Strategy for Scotland (PPSS). The strategy builds on the foundations established by the Public Procurement Priorities in its establishment of clear strategic objectives which all public bodies can align to and deliver against. This Council’s own Procurement Strategy follows the approach and aims of the PPSS. Page 17 of 240
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Climate Change and Sustainability Date of Meeting: 20 August 2025 Report Title: Green Living Fund – Round 2 Report Number: 25/206 Report Author: Divindy Grant, Team Leader – Climate Change and Sustainable Development Organisational Lead: Fraser Crofts, Strategic Lead - Environment and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this Report is to provide members of the CC&S Committee with the proposed approach for delivery of Round 2 of the Green Living Fund (GLF) for review and approval. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendations 3. Background/Context 4. Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact Value Assessment 8. Appendices 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Note the lessons presented from Round 1 of the Green Living Fund 2.2 Approve the approach to Round 2 of the Green Living Fund as outlined in Section 5. 6 Page 19 of 240
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3. Background/Context 3.1 The Green Living Fund (GLF) has been designed to provide support to community groups with projects that help address both the cost of living and climate crises. It uses a participatory budgeting approach to build community buy-in and deliver local priorities. The Council provided funding for Round 1, which opened for applications in October 2023, with £215,386 in funds awarded to 38 groups as voted on by their communities in March 2024. These 38 projects were selected by over 2,000 voters. 3.2 A community showcase at the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee meeting of 19 February 2025 gave members a flavour of 10 of the 38 awardees. In general, the main outcomes include to biodiversity protection, carbon emissions reduction, reduced fuel and food bills, reduced waste to landfill, increased recycling and improved physical and mental health linked to volunteering and community group involvement. 3.3 Examples of the positive outcomes from Round 1 for Perth and Kinross include many benefits to both the environment and our communities. Biodiversity enhancements and other land use related issues such as seed planting, food growing and soil management (From Soil to Seed: Strathtay) as well as energy capacity increase such as solar panel and battery storage installations at the Madoch Centre, are some of the outcomes resulting from Round 1 projects. Furthermore, bike maintenance workshops, training and bike donations benefited all age groups in Aberfeldy (Draft and Flow Community Cycle Workshop) while over 100 people were taught to upcycle across 20 upcycling workshops ran by the Tayside Upcycling and Craft Centre. In the all-electric hall at Glenfarg Community Centre, 62% of electricity used was generated by the solar panels installed using the GLF award and using this award to leverage other funding streams. 3.4 Green Living Fund projects align with the following themes and must also demonstrate how it will help local residents with the cost of living: Energy - reducing consumption, promoting efficiency, generating renewable Transport - encouraging active travel, decarbonising transport Waste - reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle Resilience – adapting to changing conditions – including flooding, drought and heat Nature - improving greenspace, increasing biodiversity, local food growing Engagement - increasing public awareness and engaging communities 3.5 Climate Change and Sustainability Committee engagement led to Members allocating £200k of Perth and Kinross Council funding for GLF- Round 2 as part of the budget setting process for 2025/26 (Report 25/36 refers). Page 20 of 240
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4. Main Issues 4.1 An evaluation of the Round 1 process, was circulated to elected members as a briefing note in May 2024 (EMBN Number: 051-24). It highlighted that there was overall positive feedback and increased community engagement and awareness about what was delivered. It did raise challenges around: age restrictions for young voters – the platform had a minimum sign-up age of 16 effective methods for in-person engagement – standalone in-person events and library drop-ins had limited engagement, with more effective engagement happening as part of joining at other community events. Systems and process – a number of small operational challenges were identified including the length of project summaries and the registration and the application process within the Consul system. 4.2 It should be noted that participatory budgeting has not been popular with all community groups. A few groups have raised concerns about it leading to a popularity contest and generating a spirit of competition rather than collaboration between groups. The level of officer effort to deliver the participatory budgeting approach has also been challenging. 4.3 There is a second community participatory budgeting project planned to be run by the Council this autumn. Fairer Communities for All (FCFA) will combine the process for community consultation and decision making for the Community Investment Fund and Participatory Budgeting funds (Report 25/160 refers). The approach to this fund is to consult communities about their priorities for addressing cost of living issues and to work with community groups to develop collaborative projects which will then be put forward for a public vote. It is the view of officers that there are many groups already trying to engage communities on climate action which we are already aware of. Taking a similar consultation approach to the FCFA would increase the likelihood of consultation fatigue of residents. 4.4 With the Council’s approaches to participatory budgeting, the funds have been distributed based proportionally on population of each area. This is equitable but provides challenges for community groups working across multiple areas or across all of Perth & Kinross to access the funds. Page 21 of 240
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4.5 Table 1 below summarises the advantages versus disadvantages of participatory budgeting and traditional grant approaches. Table 1 Participatory Budgeting Approach Traditional Grant Approach Advantages Increased community engagement and decision making Community ownership over allocation Equitable distribution of funds Ability to prioritise based on greatest impact Flexibility over local distribution of funds Lower officer resources Disadvantages Increased officer resource (though reduced if run together with the FCFA) Competition rather than collaboration Reduced community engagement and empowerment Officers make decisions on grant funding rather than local people 5. Proposals 5.1 Given the FCFA will be running in parallel with the GLF and community engagement and outreach will already be taking place, it proposed to continue to run the GLF following a participatory budgeting approach. 5.2 It is proposed to run the GLF and FCFA separately, but in parallel to make it easier for residents, there will be a unified public voting process. This will include all engagement events to raise awareness and voting assistance provision cover both funds. When voting, there will be a single link to accessing the voting system, with voters then able to cast their votes for their choice of projects within the two funds separately. There would be no obligation to vote for projects in both categories if the resident was only interested in GLF or FCFA projects. Additional benefits of this aligned approach include engagement of a wider audience of potential community voices and reduced officer engagement time. 5.3 The following modifications are proposed for Round 2 funding: Weighted scoring: It is proposed to evaluate the GLF proposals 50% on technical evaluation by the PKC officers and 50% on community voting. This PKC officer scoring will be based on the following criteria: o Expected climate change impact – 30% o Expected cost of living impact – 30% o Wider community benefits - 20% o Value for Money - 20% Page 22 of 240
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Allocation of funding by ward: Aligning with the FCFA approach, it is proposed that 50% of the funding will be allocated equally to each ward and 50% of the funding will be allocated based on the population of the ward. The proposed allocation is shown in Table 1. Young people: MS Forms will be used instead of the CONSUL platform. This removes a minimum age requirement for access. Established engagement channels in schools will be used to gather voting. Non-digital: PKC libraries will provide supported access, as well as officers setting up pop-up voting events as part of other community events and in warm spaces. Table 1 5.4 When scoring the expected impact of projects, PKC officers will score these impacts as High, Medium and Low for each project, based on quantified numbers when available. Projects can have either a direct impact (e.g. energy savings from installing solar panels) or an enabling impact (e.g. providing a community EV charging point, which makes it more likely for community members to shift). As part of the application process, groups will be asked to give an indication of their expected impact. The Climate Change and Sustainable Development Team will provide support to applicants to facilitate this process. 5.5 The shift from the CONSUL platform to MS Forms has many advantages around accessibility for young people, no need to register and ease of use. A downside is though, that it is harder to regulate the number of times people vote. To minimise the risk and impact of people voting multiple times, there will be a minimum number of projects that one has to vote for. This means that if someone votes to boost one project, they will be boosting other projects too and it should negate the impact. The minimum number of project votes will be set by officers, following submission of applications using judgement based on the number of applications and value of these application per ward. It is envisioned to be 3-5 required project votes for each fund. Ward Population (Census 22) Equal Split Per Capita allocation Total Funding 1 – Carse of Gowrie 9916 £8333.33 £6568.85 £14,902.18 2 - Strathmore 15,458 £8333.33 £10,240.14 £18,573.47 3 – Blairgowrie & Glens 11,248 £8333.33 £7451.23 £15,784.56 4 - Highland 8927 £8333.33 £5913.68 £14,247.01 5 - Strathtay 12,302 £8333.33 £8149.45 £16,482.78 6 - Strathearn 10,419 £8333.33 £6902.05 £15,235.38 7 - Strathallan 11,727 £8333.33 £7768.54 £16,101.87 8 – Kinross-shire 14,119 £8333.33 £9353.12 £17,686.45 9 – Almond & Earn 10,162 £8333.33 £6731.80 £15,065.13 10 – Perth City South 16,641 £8333.33 £11,023.82 £19,357.15 11 – Perth City North 12,379 £8333.33 £8200.46 £16,533.79 12 – Perth City Centre 17,657 £8333.33 £11,696.86 £20,030.19 Totals 150,953 £99,999.96 £100,000 £199,999.96 Page 23 of 240
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5.6 Monitoring and evaluation - For projects with direct impact, officers will calculate the real impact on carbon emissions in relation to each project by looking at year-on-year consumption data can provide an estimated quantification of impact. This can be achieved by looking at the emissions sources such as energy consumption, transport modes and/or waste management relevant to the project. Estimating the impact on emissions reduction will depend on data availability and accuracy. Annual energy consumption figures from electricity and gas bills for example, can be used to provide an accurate estimate of the impact the funding has on carbon emissions. For projects with an Enabling Impact, we will look for wider data proxies to use. 5.7 The proposed timeline for the GLF Application Process is: 22 August 2025 – GLF call for applications opens 15 September 2025 – FCFA call for applications opens 03 October 2025 – Submission for applications closes 03 October – 27 October 2025 – Screening of applications by Council 27 October –14 November 2025 - Voting open 17 - 21 November 2025 - Final screening 24 - 29 November 2025 - Results evenings 8-12 December 2025 – Target date for disbursing funds to successful applicants. 6. Conclusion 6.1 The Green Living Fund Round 1 was an impactful approach that helped 38 community organisations shape and deliver impactful changes locally. Lessons were learnt from Round 1 and other participatory budgeting approaches that have been incorporated into the proposed approach for Round 2. These should help to further increase the accessibility, engagement and impact of this funding. 7. Impact Value Assessment https://www.pkc.gov.uk/media/54180/Green-Living-Fund-Round- 2/pdf/Green_Living_Fund_-_Round_2.pdf?m=1752479270847 8. Appendices 8.1 None. Page 24 of 240
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 20 August 2025 Report Title: Perth Air Quality Action Plan Report Number: 25/207 Report Author: Oliver Law, Air Quality Officer, Environmental Health Organisational Lead: Elaine Ritchie, Strategic Lead – Housing & Communities ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this Report is to seek agreement on the adoption and implementation of the updated Perth Air Quality Action Plan, see Appendix 1. 1.2 This plan details the current air quality within the Perth Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) (Appendix 2) and outlines the improvement measures Perth & Kinross Council (PKC) will deliver between 2025 – 2030 in order to reduce concentrations of air pollutants within Perth City. This Action Plan is an update to the previous Perth Air Quality Action Plan published in 2009. 2. Recommendation It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Agrees the adoption and implementation of the updated Perth Air Quality Action Plan and its associated improvement measures. 3. Background/Context 3.1 Following prior exceedances of the National Air Quality Objectives, Perth City was designated an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in 2006. In accordance with Local Air Quality Management Guidance, PKC published the first Perth Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) in 2009 which included a variety of improvement measures aimed at reducing air pollutants within the AQMA below the National Objective Levels. 7 Page 25 of 240
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3.2 PKC ensures compliance with the National Objectives and assesses the effectiveness of the Action Plan’s improvement measures by continuously monitoring air quality across the region through a combination of real time monitoring stations (RTMs) and a widespread diffusion tube network. This network can be altered and redeployed where necessary to monitor potential changes to air quality, for example in advance of a new development or change in the road network. 3.3 Over the course of the last 16 years the measures within the original Perth AQAP have been carried out, with the majority now complete or ongoing. The largest and most impactful of these measures being the creation of the Cross Tay Link Road, which was a primary measure within the original AQAP. Further completed measures include air quality consideration being integrated with various Council operations such as Planning, Transport Strategy, Fleet etc., the improvement of Perth traffic congestion with the introduction of smart traffic management systems, and the carrying out of various educational activities such as Clean Air Day and the iBike and Bikeability projects. 3.4 However Perth City has undergone many changes since the publication of the original Action Plan in 2009 and is expected to go through further change during the operational period of the updated plan. The newly completed Destiny Bridge and New Kingsway is expected to have a notable impact on air quality within the City Centre, and large developments at Bertha Park, Scone and Perth West will further change both road traffic and by extension air quality within Perth, changes which will need to be closely monitored to assess their full impact. 3.5 PKC must therefore ensure that the Perth AQAP is up to date with adequate measures to address the current and future changes to Perth City and maintain the downward trend in air pollutants for the health benefit of all its citizens. The new plan must also be aligned with the Council’s other related strategies to enhance all possible co-benefits. 3.6 The updated plan was created by Environmental Health with the support and agreement of a steering group made up of PKC officers from a wide range of services (Traffic & Network, Development Management, Fleet, Public Transport etc.), including external stakeholders from NHS Tayside and Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership (TACTRAN). Air quality consultants also assisted in updating the plan through creation of updated air quality models for Perth, giving a clear view of air quality city wide and allowing us to better target improvement measures at key sources of pollutants. 3.7 Following the creation of the new draft action plan, a public consultation exercise was carried out for a period of 6 weeks between 4/11/24 and 31/12/24. Responses were received from members of the public, community councils, business owners etc as well as from stakeholders such as Transport Scotland and neighbouring local authorities. Page 26 of 240
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The feedback received was collated, reviewed and the draft action plan updated accordingly, for example the addition of a measure focused on domestic burning emissions from stoves and more detail on works to improve traffic signalling within Perth City centre. Further details on the consultation, feedback received, and the resultant changes made to the plan can be found on pg. 82-83 of Appendix 1. 3.8 To ensure the Perth Air Quality Action Plan is accessible to all and in response to feedback received during the document’s public consultation, a summary action plan will also be prepared. This document will be a briefer and more focused version of the main plan, aimed to be understandable by anyone regardless of their prior knowledge of air quality. 4. Main Issues 4.1 Air pollution remains the single largest environmental health risk in the United Kingdom, contributing to premature death and disease. Poor air quality, due to gaseous and particulate pollution, is associated with both short- and long- term adverse effects on human health. Long term exposure to air pollution can affect everyone’s health, however, some people are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution because of their age (children and older people are at increased risk) and existing medical conditions. PKC therefore has a duty to reduce air pollution at a minimum to below the national objective levels to protect public health and well-being. 4.2 Since 2009 there has been a generally consistent downward trend in both nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) within the Perth AQMA, due to both the delivery of the AQAP’s improvement measures and continued improvements in vehicle efficiency and local fleet composition. 4.3 However, the most recent air quality modelling of Perth still identifies pollutant hotspots with borderline objective compliance. For example, while there has not been an exceedance of the NO2 objective in Perth since 2018, levels are still high in hotspots with Atholl Street recording the second highest NO2 levels in Scotland in 2023. 4.4 A further challenge facing PKC in the near future is Scottish Government considering the implementation of stricter air quality objectives in line with either the EU or World Health Organisation, which would likely result in Perth once again having objective exceedances. 4.5 In light of the continued borderline pollutant levels within Perth City, the various changes to road traffic behaviours resulting from the Cross Tay Link Road and other future developments and their possible impact on air quality, and the potential tightening of air quality objectives by Scottish Government in the future, an up to date and thorough Perth Air Quality Action Plan is essential to ensure air quality continues to improve within Perth. Page 27 of 240
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5. Proposals 5.1 The proposed action plan will run from 2025 to 2030 and will undergo regular reviews each year as part of the Local Air Quality Management annual progress reporting procedure. 5.2 Following committee approval, the improvement measures set out within the Action Plan (pg. 26 – 46, Appendix 1) will be progressed by the relevant teams. Some of these measures are already underway, while others will require planning, consultation and/or sourcing of funding to begin implementation. 5.3 Environmental Health will lead on the coordination of the overall delivery of the action plan, however due to the varied nature of the improvement measures within the plan cross-service collaboration is essential to complete individual measures. 5.4 Progress on delivery of the action plan, its associated measures and the impact on Perth’s air quality will be reported each year as part of the annual progress reporting procedure. The annual progress report is submitted in June each year, and is assessed by Scottish Government, SEPA and a third party. Once approved, each report is then made publicly available on the Council and Scottish Air Quality websites. The report will also be issued to Elected Members to keep them informed of the Council’s progress in improving air quality. 6. Conclusion 6.1 PKC has a duty to protect public health by reducing air pollution within the local authority area to safe levels. While recent pollutant levels have remained below the national objectives, changes to Perth’s traffic movements following future developments remain a potential risk to air quality and as such we cannot be complacent in our work to improve air quality. 6.2 This action plan and its improvement measures will drive the Council’s work to reduce air pollution for the next five years, while also tying in with other closely linked Council Strategies (e.g. Climate Change Strategy, Mobility Strategy etc.). By delivering the Perth Air Quality Action Plan alongside these other strategies, PKC will strive to deliver a healthier and more sustainable Perth City for all its citizens. 7. Impact Value Assessment Perth AQAP Impact and Value Assessment Summary.pdf 8. Appendices Appendix 1 – Perth Air Quality Action Plan Appendix 2 – Map of the Perth Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) Page 28 of 240
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Sweco UK Limited Suite 4.2, City Park 368 Alexandra Parade Glasgow, G31 3AU +44 141 414 1700 www.sweco.co.uk APPENDIX 1 Perth Air Quality Action Plan Perth & Kinross Council August 2025 7 Page 31 of 240
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2 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Executive Summary Perth City was designated an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in 2006 due to exceedances in National Air Quality Objectives. A subsequent Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) was published in 2009. This document updates Perth and Kinross Council’s Air Quality Action Plan for Perth City as part of our statutory duties required by the Local Air Quality Management framework. The aim of this plan is to outline measures Perth and Kinross Council (PKC) and Partners will take forward to improve air quality in the Perth Air Quality Management Area between 2025 and 2030. Poor air quality has long been associated with both short- and long-term adverse effects on human health, leading to air pollution being classified as the single largest environmental health risk in the United Kingdom contributing to premature death and disease11 (reference). There is extensive evidence which suggests long term exposure to even low-level air pollution can lead to increases in premature mortality, through the onset of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases (e.g. heart disease and stroke3). Air pollution particularly affects the most vulnerable in society: children and older people, and those with pre-existing heart and lung conditions. Air pollution is also closely linked with climate change: many of the pollutants of concern in local air quality management are also greenhouse gases, and the main sources of air pollutants are often significant sources of CO2 as well (e.g. combustion engines, energy production etc.). Improvements to air quality will therefore have many co-benefits for climate change mitigation, and PKC will work to maximise these benefits between these two areas. Since the original Perth AQAP was published in 2009, there has been a consistent downward trend in levels of both NO2 and PM10 throughout Scotland, likely attributed to the increasing number of newer and cleaner vehicles across the country. This trend is replicated in Perth, further driven by various local air quality improvement measures delivered since 2009, with levels for NO2, PM10 and PM2.5 remaining below national objectives throughout the AQMA in recent years. However, the most recent air quality modelling of Perth still identifies pollutant hotspots with borderline objective compliance in central areas such as Atholl Street and Main Street, Bridgend resulting from a combination of congestion and “street canyons”. Furthermore, national focus is beginning to move towards PM10 and PM2.5 as vehicles become more efficient and NO2 emissions decrease, with domestic solid fuel burning emissions becoming a larger focus for action in the coming years. In addition, Perth will undergo significant change during the operational period of this Action Plan, with large developments in Perth West, Bertha Park and Scone expected as well as the recent completion of the Cross Tay Link Road. PKC must therefore ensure that the measures within this Action Plan keep air pollution levels from rising beyond National Objectives over the coming years as a result of the increased development of Perth. This Action Plan contains a fresh suite of air quality improvement measures intended to reduce levels of air pollution within Perth. These measures have been shaped by data from air quality monitoring and modelling and have been developed through close consultation with both internal and external 1 Public Health England. Health matters: air pollution, 2018. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health- matters-air-pollution/health-matters-air-pollution. [Cited 13 July 2022.]. 1 World Health Organization. Ambient air pollution – a major threat to health and climate. Available at: https://www.who.int/airpollution/ambient/en/ [Cited 13 January 2022]. 3 International Agency for Research on Cancer. Air Pollution and Cancer. IARC Scientific Publication No. 161. Available at: https://publications.iarc.fr/Book-And-Report-Series/Iarc-Scientific-Publications/Air-Pollution-And-Cancer-2013. [Cited 13 July 2022]. Page 32 of 240
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3 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL stakeholders across the Council and other relevant agencies. These measures have been divided into 7 broad topic areas covering all aspects of air pollution mitigation: A. Strategic Measures A.1 Improve Links with Regional Transport Strategy A.2 Ensure Mobility Strategy delivered in line with CAFS2 A.3 Ensure Integration of Air Quality with Other Council Strategies and Policies A.4 Planning and AQ B. Relocate AQMA Traffic B.1 Cross Tay Link Road B.2 Incentivise parking out with City Centre hotspots B.3 Encourage Low-Car Development C. Traffic Measures C.1 Continued improvement of UTMC system C.2 Anti-Idling Scheme C.3 Traffic Monitoring D. Reduce Emissions from Sources D.1 Encourage local fleet operators to pursue cleaner vehicles D.2 Freight Improvements D.3 Public transport improvements D.4 Continue to evaluate the need for an LEZ in the AQMA D.5 PKC Fleet Improvement D.6 PKC Fleet Management D.7 EV Charging Infrastructure D.8 School Travel Plans D.9 Domestic Burning E. Reduce Demand for Traffic E.1 Promotion and Development of car clubs E.2 Park and Rides F. Education and Community Measures F.1 Promotion of active travel F.2 Provision of travel information F.3 Awareness raising and education F.4 Encourage move to EV F.5 Improve Council’s provision of AQ information G. Improve Local Air Quality Monitoring G.1 Increase AQ Monitoring Network G.2 Increased AQ Modelling G.3 Scenario Modelling In this AQAP we outline how we plan to effectively tackle air quality issues within our control. However, we recognise that there are a large number of air quality policy areas that are outside of our influence (such as vehicle emissions standards agreed in Europe), so we will continue to work with regional and central government on policies and issues beyond PKC’s direct influence. Page 33 of 240
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4 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL This Action Plan has been created following the DEFRA issued AQAP template and is set out as follows: Section 1 gives a background of air quality in Perth, provides a brief overview of Perth and Kinross Council’s air quality priorities (e.g. Health, Climate change etc.) and summarises action plan work so far. Section 2 presents a summary of recent monitoring data and reviews of local air quality undertaken by Perth and Kinross Council. Section 3 gives a summary of measures to be adopted by Perth and Kinross Council Section 4 presents the range of options that were considered when aiming to improve local air quality within the designated AQMA Section 5 provides a brief overview of the statutory duties placed on local authorities, and a summary of existing plans and strategies which may influence air quality in Perth. Responsibilities and Commitment This AQAP was prepared by PKC Regulatory Services, assisted by Sweco UK Ltd, with the support and agreement of the following officers and services: Kirsty Steven, Lynne Reid, Oliver Law - Environmental Health Craig Daly, Michael Findlay - Traffic and Network Divindy Grant - Climate Change and Sustainable Development Niall Moran, Mike Lee – Transportation and Development Pat Taggart, Allison Brown – PKC Fleet Margaret Roy, Moray Fraser – Public Transport Unit Kristian Smith - Development Management and Building Standards Alasdair Finlayson – Local Development Plan Team Andy Clegg - Community Greenspace Jonathan Padmore – Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership (TACTRAN) Emily Stevenson – NHS Tayside Health Protection Team This AQAP has been approved by: Thomas Glen, Chief Executive Page 34 of 240
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5 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL This AQAP will be subject to an annual review, appraisal of progress and reporting to the relevant Environmental Committees. Progress each year will be reported in the Annual Progress Reports (APRs) produced by PKC and submitted to the Scottish Government, SEPA and a third independent party for assessment as part of our statutory Local Air Quality Management duties. If you have any further comments on this AQAP please send them to Environmental Health at: Perth and Kinross Council Environmental Health Pullar House 35 Kinnoull St Perth PH1 5GD 01738 476477 EH@pkc.gov.uk Page 35 of 240
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6 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Table of Contents 1 Introduction.............................................................................................................9 1.1 Background ..............................................................................................................................9 1.2 PKC Air Quality Priorities........................................................................................................10 1.2.1 Public Health...................................................................................................................10 1.2.2 Climate Action Perth and Kinross....................................................................................12 1.3 Previous Action Plan Progress...............................................................................................14 2 Air Quality in Perth................................................................................................17 2.1 Monitoring...............................................................................................................................17 2.2 Modelling................................................................................................................................19 2.3 Trends in Pollution Levels ......................................................................................................21 Nitrogen Dioxide............................................................................................................................21 Particulate Matter...........................................................................................................................22 2.4 Main Sources of Pollution.......................................................................................................24 3 Improvement Measures........................................................................................27 A. Strategic Measures.................................................................................................................27 A.1 Improve Links with Regional Transport Strategy.....................................................................27 A.2 Ensure Mobility Strategy delivered in line with CAFS2...........................................................28 A.3 Ensure Integration of Air Quality with Other Council Strategies and Policies.........................28 A.4 Planning and Air Quality..........................................................................................................29 B. Relocate AQMA Traffic...........................................................................................................30 B.1 Cross Tay Link Road...............................................................................................................30 B.2 Incentivise Parking out with City Centre Hotspots...................................................................30 B.3 Encourage Low-Car Development..........................................................................................31 C. Traffic Measures.....................................................................................................................32 C.1 Continued Improvement of UTMC System .............................................................................32 C.2 Anti-Idling Scheme..................................................................................................................32 C.3 Traffic monitoring ....................................................................................................................33 D. Reduce Emissions from Sources ...........................................................................................34 D.1 Encourage Local Fleet Operators to Pursue Cleaner Vehicles...............................................34 D.2 Freight Improvements.............................................................................................................34 D.3 Public Transport Improvements..............................................................................................35 D.4 Continue to Evaluate the Need for a LEZ in the AQMA..........................................................36 D.5 PKC Fleet Improvement..........................................................................................................36 D.6 PKC Fleet Management..........................................................................................................36 D.7 EV Charging Infrastructure......................................................................................................37 D.8. School Travel Plans...............................................................................................................38 D.9. Domestic Burning ..................................................................................................................38 E. Reduce Demand for Traffic ....................................................................................................40 E.1 Promotion and Development of Car Clubs..............................................................................40 Page 36 of 240
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7 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL E.2 Park and Rides........................................................................................................................40 F. Education and Community Measures.....................................................................................42 F.1 Promotion of Active Travel ......................................................................................................42 F.2 Provision of Travel Information................................................................................................43 F.3 Awareness Raising and Education..........................................................................................43 F.4 Encourage Move to Electric Vehicles......................................................................................44 F.5 Improve Council’s Provision of Air Quality Information............................................................44 G. Improve Local Air Quality Monitoring......................................................................................46 G.1 Increase Air Quality Monitoring Network.................................................................................46 G.2 Increased Air Quality Modelling..............................................................................................46 G.3 Scenario Modelling .................................................................................................................47 4 Assessment of Improvement Measures.............................................................69 4.1 Range of Possible Measures..................................................................................................69 4.2 Responses to the Measures...................................................................................................69 5 AQ Legislation, Strategies and Plans.................................................................71 5.1 Legislation and Guidance.......................................................................................................71 5.2 Local Policy and Plans ...........................................................................................................75 5.3. Regional Policy and Plans..........................................................................................................79 6 Appendices............................................................................................................81 Appendix A: Development of Air Quality Action Plan........................................................................81 Appendix B: AQMA Order.................................................................................................................83 Appendix C: Consultation on the Draft Air Quality Action Plan.........................................................84 Response to Consultation.................................................................................................................85 Appendix D: Conclusions of LAQM Review and Assessments.........................................................86 Appendix E: Perth Dispersion Modelling Methodology.....................................................................88 Appendix F: Evaluation of Action Plan Measures.............................................................................99 Appendix G: Glossary of Terms......................................................................................................102 Table of Figures Figure 1.1: Perth Air Quality Management Area (AQMA)..................................................................9 Figure 1.2: Effects of air pollutants on the human body.................................................................11 Figure 1.3: Air Quality and Climate Change Interactions................................................................13 Figure 1.4: Cross Tay Link Road (New Kingsway) from Tay Crossing to A94 – April 2025 ........15 Figure 1.5: Change in NO2 Levels Following 2013 Signal Changes at Atholl Street....................16 Figure 2.1: Real Time Monitor in Bridgend, Perth (Left), Nitrogen Diffusion Tube (Right)..........18 Figure 2.2: Dispersion Model NO2 Contours for Perth AQMA........................................................20 Figure 2.3: NO2 Concentrations at Atholl Street Perth from 1/01/2005 to 31/12/2024 (De- seasonalised)......................................................................................................................................22 Figure 2.4: PM10 Concentrations at Atholl Street Perth from 1/01/2005 to 31/12/2024 (De- seasonalised)......................................................................................................................................23 Figure 2.5: PM2.5 Concentrations at Atholl Street Perth from 29/11/2017 to 31/12/2024 (De- seasonalised)......................................................................................................................................24 Figure 2.6: NOx Perth Source Apportionment Analysis (2019 Traffic Data)..................................25 Figure 2.7: Source Apportionment – Perth City Centre Link Analysis (2019 Traffic Data)..........26 Figure 6.1: The complete AQAP Process.........................................................................................82 Page 37 of 240
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8 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 6.2: Air quality Model Domain................................................................................................88 Figure 6.3: 2019 wind Rose Perth Strathallan..................................................................................89 Figure 6.4: Advanced Street Canyon Module...................................................................................90 Figure 6.5: NOx Perth Source Apportionment Analysis .................................................................92 Figure 6.6: Source apportionment – Perth City Centre Link Analysis...........................................93 Figure 6.7: Modelled vs measured NO2 at all monitoring locations...............................................95 Figure 6.8: Modelled vs measured NO2 ............................................................................................96 Table 2.1: Scottish Air Quality Objectives........................................................................................17 Table 2.2: Perth Real Time Monitoring Stations ..............................................................................19 Table 3.1: Action Plan Measures (to be read in conjunction with Section 3)................................48 Table 4.1: AQAP Improvement Measures Eliminated from Further Consideration......................70 Table 5.1: Scottish Air Quality Objectives........................................................................................72 Table 6.1: Model performance statistics...........................................................................................94 Table 6.2: Post adjustment results....................................................................................................96 Table 6.3: Criteria for Feasibility Analysis......................................................................................101 Page 38 of 240
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9 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 1 Introduction This report outlines the actions that Perth and Kinross Council (PKC) will deliver between 2025-2030 in order to reduce concentrations of air pollutants and exposure to air pollution; thereby positively impacting on the health and quality of life of residents and visitors to Perth. This Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) is an update on the previous AQAP published for Perth in 2009. The AQAP has been developed in recognition of the legal requirement on all local authorities to work towards Air Quality Strategy (AQS) objectives under Part IV of the Environment Act 1995 and relevant regulations made under that part and to meet the requirements of the Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) statutory process. This Plan will be reviewed annually and updated every five years at the latest and progress on improvement measures set out within this Plan will be reported on annually within Perth and Kinross Council’s Annual Progress Report (APR) to the Scottish Government. 1.1 Background PKC carried out a Detailed Assessment of Perth in 2005 to identify whether any exceedances of the annual mean Air Quality Strategy Objectives were likely within Perth City. This assessment found that exceedances of the nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10) objectives were likely at a number of areas within Perth, primarily near the Atholl Street/Barrack Street junction. This assessment also concluded that an AQMA should be declared for Perth and that a Further Assessment be carried out to confirm the conclusions of the detailed assessment and to test the likely impact of action planning scenarios to inform the future Perth AQAP. Figure 1.1: Perth Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) Page 39 of 240
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10 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The Perth AQMA was declared in 2006 for exceedances of the NO2 and PM10 Air Quality Strategy Objectives. The Perth AQMA boundary is presented in Figure 1.1. Though the areas of exceedance identified in the Detailed and Further Assessments were localised around Atholl Street/Barrack Street, PKC chose to declare the whole of the city of Perth as an AQMA. It was determined that having one consolidated AQMA, rather than multiple smaller AMQAs throughout the city would allow the creation of an AQAP which focused on reducing emissions across the city of Perth, rather than moving air quality issues from hotspots to other areas. As part of this AQAP and in the future, the AQMA boundary continues to be reviewed and may be expanded as a result of future developments in Perth West, Bertha Park etc. Perth has changed greatly since the original declaration of the AQMA, with large residential developments at Bertha Park, Huntingtower and Glasgow Road further expanding the size of the city over the last 15 years. Further growth is expected over the coming years in Perth West, Scone, and with the completion of the Cross Tay Link Road, leading to potential large increases in road traffic throughout the city and a corresponding increase in vehicle emissions. PKC therefore will continue to review the AQMA boundary throughout the ongoing development of Perth, with the possibility of its expansion likely to ensure compliance with air quality objectives throughout the region. 1.2 PKC Air Quality Priorities As well as meeting the statutory requirements related to local air quality management, Perth and Kinross Council has a number of priorities behind the improvement of air quality in Perth. These aim to the benefit the quality of life of all its residents as well as improving and protecting the wider environment. 1.2.1 Public Health Air pollution has been associated with a wide range of effects on the wider environment; however, it is the potential negative impacts of ambient air pollution on human health that is the primary focus of local air quality management. While low- and middle-income countries disproportionately suffer the greatest health burden of poor air quality, air pollution remains the single largest environmental health risk in the United Kingdom, contributing to premature death and disease.4 5 Poor air quality, due to gaseous and particulate pollution, is associated with both short- and long-term adverse effects on human health. The size of polluting particles, concentration of pollutants and the duration of exposure are key determinants of potential adverse health effects. Particles larger than 10 µm are mainly deposited in the nose or throat, whereas particles smaller than 10 µm pose the greatest risk because they can be drawn deeper into the lung. The strongest evidence for effects on health is associated with fine particles (PM2.5). However, epidemiological studies have also shown associations of outdoor Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) with adverse effects on health, including reduced life expectancy. While some of the health effects are caused by NO2 itself, other pollutants emitted at the same time are also likely to be contributing.6 4 Public Health England. Health matters: air pollution, 2018. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health- matters-air-pollution/health-matters-air-pollution. [Cited 13 July 2022.]. 5 World Health Organization. Ambient air pollution – a major threat to health and climate. Available at: https://www.who.int/airpollution/ambient/en/ [Cited 13 January 2022]. 6 Committee on the medical effects of air pollutants. Statement on the evidence for the effects of nitrogen dioxide on health, 2015. Available at: Page 40 of 240
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11 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 1.2: Effects of air pollutants on the human body7 As well as exposure related factors, the effects of air pollution on health also depend on an individual’s vulnerability. Long term exposure to air pollution can affect everyone’s health. However, some people are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution because of their age (children and older people are at increased risk), existing medical conditions and/or health determining behaviours. The levels of air pollution experienced on high pollution days in Scotland are usually not sufficient to cause acute problems in healthy individuals but can exacerbate symptoms in people who have pre- existing health conditions e.g., exacerbations of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. In addition to the acute health impacts of peak air pollution, there is an extensive body of evidence which associates lower-level long-term exposure to air pollution with increases in premature mortality and morbidity. Ambient air pollution has been associated with respiratory disease and cardiovascular disease (e.g. ischaemic heart disease and stroke).4 Outdoor air pollution, especially particulate matter, https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/411756/COMEAP_The_evid ence_for_the_effects_of_nitrogen_dioxide.pdf [Cited 13 July 2022]. 7 DEFRA and Public Health England. Air Quality: A Briefing for Directors of Public Health. March 2017 https://www.local.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/6.3091_DEFRA_AirQualityGuide_9web_0.pdf Page 41 of 240
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12 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL has also been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as carcinogenic to humans (a Group 1 carcinogen) and causing lung cancer.8 9 In addition, there is emerging evidence which links air pollution with dementia, low birth weight and Type 2 diabetes.4 While Scotland enjoys relatively good air quality in comparison to its own past and compared to other developed countries, air pollution remains a public health concern. This is due to a number of factors: Even in the UK where particulate matter concentrations in many cities do comply with guidelines, life expectancy can still be improved through improvements in air quality.10 Small particulate pollution has health impacts even at very low concentrations. Indeed, no threshold has been identified below which no damage to health is observed. For this reason, the World Health Organization’s air pollution guideline limits aim to achieve the lowest concentration of particulate matter possible.11 There have been associated adverse health effects for NO2 at and below the legal limits.12 It is our most vulnerable populations who are most effected by air pollution. Areas of high deprivation are associated with poorer air quality. The health impacts of poor air quality compound pre-existing health inequalities. Air pollution and climate change are inextricably linked. The climate emergency is a significant risk to population health. Measures to combat air pollution which lead to a reduction in the combustion of fossil fuels will bring about additional health benefits by mitigating climate change. Measures to reduce air pollution can bring about health co-benefits (i.e. benefits in addition to the direct benefits from reducing air pollution). For example, there are considerable physical and mental health benefits from people walking and cycling rather than driving. In the long-term, the available scientific evidence indicates that air pollution can have a significant effect on human health, although the effects will vary depending on where an individual lives (urban or rural) and the type of pollutant(s) to which they are exposed. Whilst the full extent of these impacts across the population is difficult to quantify, in the UK, poor air quality is considered to reduce the average life expectancy by several months (COMEAP, 2009). 1.2.2 Climate Action Perth and Kinross Climate change and air quality are inextricably linked; air pollution often originates from the same activities that contribute to climate change. The majority of both greenhouse gases and air pollutants are produced by vehicle engines, power generation and domestic heating, and as such multiple 8 International Agency for Research on Cancer. Air Pollution and Cancer. IARC Scientific Publication No. 161. Available at: https://publications.iarc.fr/Book-And-Report-Series/Iarc-Scientific-Publications/Air-Pollution-And-Cancer-2013. [Cited 13 July 2022]. 9 International Agency for Research on Cancer. Q and As on outdoor air pollution and cancer, 2018. Available at: https://www.iarc.fr/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/pr221_QA.pdf [Cited 13 July 2022]. 10 Danjak D, Walton H, Smith JD. Birmingham City Health and Economic Impact Assessment study. Kings College London, 2019. https://www.uk100.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/KCL-UK100-Birmingham-City-Health-and-Economic-Impact-2019.pdf 11 World Health Organization. Air Quality Guidelines – Global Update 2005. Available at: https://www.who.int/phe/health_topics/outdoorair/outdoorair_aqg/en/. [Cited 13 July 2022]. 12 DEFRA and Public Health England. Air Quality: A Briefing for Directors of Public Health. March 2017 https://www.local.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/6.3091_DEFRA_AirQualityGuide_9web_0.pdf Page 42 of 240
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13 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL measures aimed at reducing air pollutants often also reduce CO2 emissions, for example the adoption of low emission vehicles. However, we are now also aware that some national policies to address air quality or climate change in the past have not interacted and at times been in conflict (see Figure 1.3 below). As a result, we recognise that it is vital to establish policies which seek to improve both air quality and climate change through collaborative working with relevant stakeholders. Figure 1.3: Air Quality and Climate Change Interactions13 Air quality was therefore one of the many considerations as part of Perth and Kinross Council’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan14, which was unanimously approved by the Council in December 2021. The Action Plan sets out PKC’s vision in reaching net zero targets and achieving a climate resilient Perth and Kinross by outlining key short-term and long-term actions in relation to Energy and Buildings, Transport, Climate Resilience, Waste and Circular Economy, Education and Engagement, Business and Industry, and Land Use. A web-based version of the Strategy and Action Plan is available on the Perth and Kinross Climate Action website which was launched in early 2022, in order to act as a central hub for climate-related information across Perth and Kinross. The website features ‘Take Action’ pages in relation to each 13 Defra: Air Pollution: Action in a changing climate https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/69340/pb13378-air- pollution.pdf 14 Perth and Kinross Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan. Available at: https://www.pkclimateaction.co.uk/climate-change- strategy-and-action-plan Page 43 of 240
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14 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL area where changes need to be made, as well as key resources such as funding, events and climate- related news. To work towards the delivery of Perth and Kinross Council’s Strategy and Action Plan, a Climate Change Working Group (CCWG) was set up. The CCWG consists of representatives from relevant teams which allows for co-ordinated sharing of best practice across Council services, and is divided into thematic subgroups (e.g. Energy and Buildings, Transport etc.). Though air quality is a recurring theme across all subgroups, air quality related issues fall within the remit of the Transport subgroup, where it is a standing item on the agenda. 1.3 Previous Action Plan Progress This action plan replaces the previous action plan which was created in 2009. A wide range of the action plan’s measure were delivered have been delivered since this time, full details can be viewed in PKC’s air quality Annual Progress Reports. Some key examples of delivered actions include: Cross Tay Link Road – After many years of planning and construction the new Link Road (now titled the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge) is now complete, with the road having opened in March 2025 (Figure 1.4). The CTLR is expected to redirect a significant proportion of traffic away from central Perth, which is predicted to have a positive impact on reducing pollution in the worst hotspots in Atholl Street and Bridgend. Air quality was a key consideration in both Local Development Plan 1 and 2, and PKC Supplementary Air Quality Planning Guidance was created and implemented in 2020, with a significant number of planning applications having been assessed for air quality in recent years – This has ensured air quality is embedded within the planning process and will prevent developments which will have a negative effect on Perth’s local air quality. Air quality was integrated within both the Council’s Mobility Strategy and Regional Transport Strategy – Similar to the Local Development Plan, this has ensured air quality is one of the key considerations during any transport planning exercises TACTRAN-wide Freight Quality Partnership was created to improve freight movements across Perth and Kinross – Freight movements can often produce a significant quantity of air pollutants due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. The Freight Quality Partnership presents a forum where PKC can work directly with these freight companies to reduce the impact they have on local air quality. Stratos UTMC Common Database was installed in Perth to improve traffic management in City centre – Atholl Street and Bridgend are the worst hotspots for pollution in Perth and Kinross. Stratos allows for better management of congestion in these areas, with one such example being the 2013 adjustments to traffic signal timings in Atholl St which resulted in a significant reduction in NO2 levels (Figure 1.5). PKC Fleet Vehicles are now only replaced with Euro 6 or EV/Hybrid alternatives, vehicle MPG now monitored through mileage recording at every fuelling event and all council vehicles are now installed with tracking/telematic systems to improve fleet usage. This will significantly reduce the Council’s own contribution to air quality issues in Perth. Public Transport Improvements – Electric charging hub installed at Broxden Park and Ride, real time passenger information boards installed in bus shelters throughout Perth City and surrounding areas, continual improvement to bus services in Perth and Kinross including new electric buses Page 44 of 240
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15 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL for Service 1 and 2 in Perth City. Investment in public transport infrastructure is the first step in encouraging modal shift from car use to more sustainable and cleaner travel TACTRAN Connect travel information database and journey planner created in 2010 and modernised in 2014. This tool makes it easier to plan a journey through Perth using the available public transport in the city, rather than using a personal vehicle. Perth On The Go delivers cycle/walking route maps and bus timetables to local residents, alongside ongoing school initiatives such as the Ibike Project and Bikeability. Ensuring information on sustainable travel routes/methods is readily available to Perth and Kinross residents is vital to encourage modal shift to walking, cycling and public transport. PKC has taken part in Clean Air Day for many years, carrying out air quality educational events for both schools and the wider public across Perth and Kinross, alongside social media messaging about Perth’s air quality and encouraging the move to active and sustainable travel Figure 1.4: Cross Tay Link Road (New Kingsway) from Tay Crossing to A94 – April 2025 Page 45 of 240
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16 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 1.5: Change in NO2 Levels Following 2013 Signal Changes at Atholl Street Page 46 of 240
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17 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 2 Air Quality in Perth Throughout the majority of Perth and Kinross air quality is considered to be very good, however there are some hotspot areas where this is not the case which has led to the declaration of the Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in Perth City. In most cases, these hotspot areas are caused by high sided buildings on both sides of a road prone to congestion, creating a “street canyon” where traffic emissions cannot disperse properly. This is the case in Atholl Street and Main Street Bridgend, Perth’s main hotspots. PKC’s Environmental Health team is responsible for identifying, monitoring and collaborating with other services to improve areas of poor air quality within our Local Authority boundary. The methods by which we achieve this are explained in this section. 2.1 Monitoring Under Section 82 of the Environment Act 1996, all local authorities are required to regularly review and assess the air quality within their area against the National Objectives set out in the Air Quality (Scotland) Regulations (2000 and Amended Regulations 2002 and 2016). PKC have a statutory duty through the LAQM process to report annually to the Scottish Government on monitoring undertaken within Perth and Kinross. All reports and assessments, including the existing AQAP for Perth, are available at https://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/15307/Air-quality-reports. Table 2.1: Scottish Air Quality Objectives Pollutant Air Quality Objectives (µg/m3) Measured as Date to be achieved by 40 Annual Mean 31.12.2005Nitrogen Dioxide 200 One hour mean, not to be exceeded more than 18 times per year (equivalent to the 99.79th percentile of hourly means 31.12.2005 18 Annual Mean 31.12.2010Particulate Matter (PM10) 50 24 hour mean, not to be exceeded more than 7 times a year (equivalent to the 98.08th percentile of 24-hour means) Particulate Matter (PM2.5) 10 Annual Mean 31.12.2020 The above three objective pollutants are of main concern to Scottish Government due to their potential to impact public health: Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) – NO2 originates from car and other vehicle exhausts from both petrol and diesel engines. NO2 can irritate the lungs and enhance the opportunity of falling ill to respiratory infections such as the flu. Page 47 of 240
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18 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Particulate Matter of a diameter less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) – PM2.5 sources include petrol and diesel exhaust fumes. These fine particles can be carried deep into the respiratory system where they may cause inflammation (particularly in those with cardiovascular and respiratory issues). Particulate Matter of a diameter less than 10 microns (PM10) – PM10 originates from petrol and diesel exhaust fumes, tyre and brake dust and burning emissions (e.g. woodburning stoves) but can also originate from natural sources such as soil, biological particles, pollen and sea salt. Much like PM2.5, fine particles can penetrate the respiratory system and cause inflammation. Both PM10 and PM2.5 are potentially carcinogenic. In order to identify potential breaches of the above National Objectives, PKC maintains a comprehensive air quality monitoring network across the whole of Perth and Kinross. There are two types of air quality monitoring equipment distributed throughout the region as part of our network: Real Time Monitors and Nitrogen Dioxide Diffusion Tubes. Figure 2.1: Real Time Monitor in Bridgend, Perth (Left), Nitrogen Diffusion Tube (Right) Real Time Monitors (RTMs) are a series of highly sensitive analysers housed in a secure cabinet which measure ambient concentrations of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) in real time, 24 Hours a day. These measurements are then available live on the Scottish Air Quality Website. While RTMs are the most accurate means of assessing air quality available to PKC, their high cost, large size and need for specialist maintenance/calibration means only a small number can be placed throughout the region, concentrating on the areas with the highest pollution concentrations. There are currently three Real Time Monitoring sites in Perth: Atholl Street, Bridgend, and Glasgow Road. These monitors are provided and maintained by an external consultant. Page 48 of 240
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19 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Table 2.2: Perth Real Time Monitoring Stations Site Name Site Type Pollutants Monitored Atholl Street Roadside NO2, PM10, PM2.5 Bridgend, Perth Roadside NO2, PM10, PM2.5 Glasgow Road, Perth Roadside NO2, PM10, PM2.5 To supplement the data collected by the four Real time monitors, PKC has deployed a network of over 80 Nitrogen Dioxide Diffusion tubes throughout Perth and Kinross. These small tubes are mounted at a height of around 2 meters on lampposts, downpipes etc close to the roadside to measure monthly average NO 2 concentrations at their location. While less accurate than RTM measurements, diffusion tube data helps build up a detailed map of pollution hotspots throughout the region. Their low cost and ease of installation allows for quick deployment and relocation to areas most in need of monitoring. A number of diffusion tubes are put in place on each RTM to compare readings and to allow for bias adjustment of tube data during the Annual Progress Report. 2.2 Modelling To further improve our knowledge of air quality within Perth, PKC commissioned Sweco UK Ltd. to create a detailed dispersion model in 2021. An updated transport model undertaken for the baseline year of 2019 was used in the creation of the dispersion model to provide insight into the traffic movements within Perth and Kinross, and to further inform how to improve air quality in the area. Air quality dispersion modelling considers all the data from PKC’s air quality monitoring network, traffic data from traffic models, meteorology and topography to estimate pollutant concentrations across a whole region. This enables insight into the air quality of areas not currently monitored by PKC, and allow better determination of the most effective improvement measures to implement. Further details on the modelling process and outputs can be found in Appendix E. Below in Error! Reference source not found. is a map of the Perth AQMA showing the Nitrogen Dioxide contours determined by the dispersion model. As shown in darker red, the main hotspots within the city centre are located in Atholl Street and Bridgend. Though there are also high concentrations surrounding the M90, A9 and Inveralmond roundabout, the areas of primary concern to local authorities are those areas of high concentration in close proximity to sensitive receptors (e.g. residential properties and areas of high footfall). Both the M90 and the A9 are also managed by Transport Scotland and are therefore out with PKC’s control, however we will continue to collaborate with Transport Scotland to reduce the impact of these trunk roads where possible Page 49 of 240
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20 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 2.2: Dispersion Model NO2 Contours for Perth AQMA Page 50 of 240
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21 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 2.3 Trends in Pollution Levels Perth and Kinross Council has been monitoring air quality for over 19 years. During this time, we have seen an overall general downward trend in recent years in levels of both NO2 and PM10. This downward trend was observed across automatic and diffusion tube monitoring sites and is being seen on a national basis, most likely due to a combination of PKC’s air quality improvement measures delivered so far and an increasing number of newer and therefore cleaner vehicles within the vehicle fleet. Further monitoring is required to establish if this is a continual trend that could eventually lead to improved compliance with the objectives. A period of 3-5 years of compliance is required before PKC would be in a position to consider amending/revoking the AQMA. As a result, the delivery of an action plan is still required. Monitoring undertaken during 2020 to early 2022 are also subject to much uncertainty and do not represent typical ambient air quality concentrations due to Covid-19 lockdown measures, meaning a trend cannot be established using data from that period. Nitrogen Dioxide The annual mean concentration of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) within the Perth AQMA has been gradually decreasing over the last 10 years, with 2019 being the first year without an exceedance of the National Objective of 40 ug/m3 in Perth since 2018. During 2020 and early 2021 traffic levels were influenced by Covid-19 lockdowns and NO2 levels dropped significantly, once again leading to no exceedances for these two years. However as this data does not reflect a typical year, the years 2020 and 2021 must be discounted from any trends. Between 2022 and 2024 the overall downward trend of NO2 levels continued with the exception of a small increase in the first few months of 2023, again with no exceedances of objectives being recorded within the Perth AQMA. These sustained lower levels post-Covid could likely be attributed to the continued homeworking/flexible working of many who formerly commuted to Perth pre-Covid, alongside the regular adoption of cleaner vehicles across the region. While this downward trend in NO2 is a positive development, Atholl Street in Perth was one of the sites with the highest NO2 levels in Scotland in 202315 and as such much work is still required to further improve air quality within Perth. 15Scottish Air Quality Database Annual Report for 2023 https://www.scottishairquality.scot/sites/default/files/publications/2024- 12/SAQD_annual_report_2023_final_0.pdf Page 51 of 240
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22 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 2.3: NO2 Concentrations at Atholl Street Perth from 1/01/2005 to 31/12/2024 (De- seasonalised) Particulate Matter PM10 annual mean concentrations have also followed the same trend as NO2, with levels gradually decreasing up to 2019 and the years 2020 and 2021 discounted due to the influence of Covid-19 lockdown measures. There has not been an exceedance of the Annual Mean National Objective for PM10 of 18 ug/m3 since 2016, however there has been some uncertainty surrounding the sensors used to monitor PM10 possibly underreporting concentrations. In March 2023 following the Scottish Government Research Study to Investigate Particulate Matter Monitoring Techniques, Scottish Government recommended that all PM10 and PM2.5 data recorded on Fidas 200 analysers from 2022 onwards would require a correction to be applied due to this underreporting. This correction led to 2022 having the first exceedances of the PM10 daily mean objective since 2013, followed by further exceedances in 2023, though this has been attributed to the ongoing building works at the YMCA directly behind the Atholl Street Real Time Monitor. These building works were concluded in late 2024, leading to a drop in PM10 back to more normal levels, alongside no exceedances of PM10 objectives in 2024. Unfortunately, the true trend in PM10 levels in the city centre will take a number of years of consistent representative monitoring data to reemerge due to the uncertainly caused by the building works in recent years. Page 52 of 240
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23 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 2.4: PM10 Concentrations at Atholl Street Perth from 1/01/2005 to 31/12/2024 (De- seasonalised) PKC began monitoring PM2.5 in late 2017, meaning the trends in concentrations are less clear than those seen for NO2 and PM10, however current data suggests there has been limited change to PM2.5 concentrations over the past 7 years. Concentrations have remained fairly steady since monitoring began, and there have been no PM2.5 objective exceedances so far across the Perth AQMA. A full breakdown of air quality monitoring data in recent years can be found within PKC’s Annual Progress Reports on the PKC website, as well as on the Scottish Air Quality website. Page 53 of 240
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24 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 2.5: PM2.5 Concentrations at Atholl Street Perth from 29/11/2017 to 31/12/2024 (De- seasonalised) 2.4 Main Sources of Pollution As part of the air quality dispersion modelling carried out by Sweco, the pollutant contributions from various vehicle types were calculated in a source apportionment assessment. The aim of this assessment was to help the Action Plan target the most prevalent sources of pollutants through tailored improvement measures. The source apportionment analysis showed the highest contributor of NOx, PM10 and PM2.5 emissions on each road based on the traffic model for the most part was cars and followed by buses/coaches, as shown in Figure 2.6. A more detailed breakdown of the source apportionment analysis was undertaken within the Perth city centre area to identify the different vehicles contributing to NOx emissions. This analysis showed that whilst cars were the highest vehicle contributor to emissions out with the city centre area, buses/coaches are also contributing a significant proportion of NOx emissions particularly on South Street, Mill Street, South Methven Street and York Place (Figure 2.7) Page 54 of 240
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25 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 2.6: NOx Perth Source Apportionment Analysis (2019 Traffic Data) Page 55 of 240
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26 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 2.7: Source Apportionment – Perth City Centre Link Analysis (2019 Traffic Data) Page 56 of 240
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27 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 3 Improvement Measures Once the key pollution hotspots were identified through monitoring and modelling, and the main sources of pollution were attributed through source apportionment, a steering group made up of representatives from various relevant services at PKC was convened to determine a range of improvement measures to reduce air pollution within the Perth AQMA. This process consisted of a gradual refinement of a full range of potential options, to ensure the focus was centred on measures that directly address the principal problem (road traffic emissions), as well as prioritising the measures most feasible and cost-effective. Further information on this refinement process can be found in Section 4. This section outlines the list of improvement measures following internal and external consultation. A.Strategic Measures It is important that AQAPs support and consider existing or forthcoming plans and strategies. Therefore, some integration of the AQAP with the local transport strategy, the development plan and other relevant Council strategies is considered essential and represents a strategic and integrated approach to local air quality management. The adoption of these measures will help to improve air quality across Perth and Kinross. These strategic actions are outlined in the measures 1 to 4 below. A.1 Improve Links with Regional Transport Strategy The Regional Transport Strategy contains a section on air quality, and the AQAP will link to this by working with both TACTRAN and other partners such as Transport Scotland to tackle transport issues that contribute to poor air quality. The Perth AQMA covers the whole of Perth City and includes key strategic routes on the national transport network such as the A9, A85 and M90, giving a regional and national dimension to the Perth AQAP. PKC was involved in the recent review of the Regional Transport Strategy undertaken by TACTRAN, with the new RTS now published and covering 2024- 2034. PKC will continue to work with TACTRAN to help deliver RTS measures which benefit air quality. Measure Title A.1 Improve links with regional transport strategy Definition Key Intervention Ensure that AQ and Climate change are considered in Transport Planning for Perth at a regional strategy level. Such considerations would include: a. Promoting measures to reduce traffic within Perth City (reducing trips/promoting alternatives) b. Promoting measures to promote ULEV in and around Perth Ensure that AQ and Climate change are considered with regards to Transport Planning for Perth at a regional strategy level. Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used TACTRAN/PKC Transport Planning/Environmental Health (EH) Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – All Areas Page 57 of 240
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28 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL A.2 Ensure Mobility Strategy delivered in line with CAFS2 Perth and Kinross Council’s Mobility Strategy, commonly known as a Local Transport Strategy, sets out the Council’s vision for managing and developing the transport network over a minimum of 10 years. The Mobility Strategy considers all modes of transport, for the movement of goods and people, across Perth and Kinross’s rural and urban settings, to help achieve national targets and local objectives. The Mobility Strategy will respond to the climate change agenda and changes in how people travel following the Covid-19 pandemic. The strategy also considers emerging technologies, digital services, housing, inclusion, poverty, health, climate adaption, economic growth, air quality and place making. As a major council strategy for the future of transport, it is vital that air quality be one of the key considerations within this document. The aims and actions of the Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 Strategy should therefore be incorporated within the new Mobility Strategy to ensure PKC compliance, and air quality should continue to be main consideration in the delivery of the strategy moving forward. Measure Title A.2 Ensure Mobility Strategy delivered in line with CAFS2 Definition Key Intervention Ensure that air quality and CAFS2 objectives are integrated into the delivery of the future Perth and Kinross Mobility Strategy. Air quality to be a key consideration within mobility strategy and subsequent transport planning Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Transport and Development Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – All Areas A.3 Ensure Integration of Air Quality with Other Council Strategies and Policies PKC will ensure air quality is considered within various council strategies and policies to minimise any negative impacts they may cause. Air quality planning policies and guidance will make sure any impacts and appropriate mitigation measures are considered at the design stage of all proposed developments. Procurement guidance will influence future PKC tender exercises, in particular the uptake of more fuel efficient and lower emission vehicles by PKC and public transport services. Future changes to the traffic network within Perth will consider possible air quality effects and aim to reduce air pollution wherever possible. Measure Title A.3 Ensure integration of air quality with other council strategies and policies Definition Key Intervention a. Joint-working between Council Services to consider air quality implications of existing/ future Council strategies/ policies, b. Ensure air quality impacts and mitigation measures are considered at the design stage for all proposed developments across the Local Development Plan area c. Ensure air quality is formally considered in future tender processes, particularly for new PKC vehicles Encourage opportunities for improving local air quality and minimising negative impacts from existing and future PKC strategies and policies. Page 58 of 240
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29 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL and public transport decisions (i.e. for school subsidised public services, school buses and taxis) Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Statutory: Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 as amended by the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Governance – Governance and Accountability, Business and Performance Management, Sustainable Procurement A.4 Planning and Air Quality The Environmental Health Team, as internal consultees for development management, will continue to request and assess all planning applications in Perth and Kinross which may result in an increase in air pollution, both directly from the development (wood-burning stoves, biomass boilers etc.) and from the increase in traffic caused by the new development. Green Travel Plans (GTPs) are requested for new large developments under existing planning arrangements, however there is little that can be done to ensure these plans are put in place after planning permission is granted as this responsibility lies with the developer. Enforcement and general delivery of future development GTPs will therefore be reviewed to ensure compliance by developers. This could include requesting regular/annual monitoring reports on the GTP from developers to ensure compliance PKC produced a new statutory AQ Supplementary Guidance document which was adopted in March 2020 and is linked with the Local Development Plan. Having been in place for several years, the performance, use and content of this guidance will now be reviewed to improve use by developers. Further air quality policy updates could also be made when the Local Development Plan is updated in 2027. Measure Title A.4 Planning and Air Quality Definition Key Intervention a. Continue to consider air quality in planning decisions b. Review/Increase enforcement and monitoring of new development green travel plans. c. Improve use of existing AQ Supplementary Guidance d. Ensure provision of EV chargers and active travel infrastructure in developments wherever feasible (e.g. safe cycle storage) Ensure air quality improvement is prioritised throughout the planning process at PKC and review existing planning policies and guidance related to AQ to optimise performance Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Development Management/EH Statutory: Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 as amended by the Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006 Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Accelerate the EV Transition, Increase Active Transport Across Perth and Kinross, Improve Public Transport Provision. Business and Industry – Measuring Performance Page 59 of 240
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30 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL B.Relocate AQMA Traffic B.1 Cross Tay Link Road The Cross Tay Link Road (now named the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge) across the River Tay from A9 to A93 North of Scone is the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by Perth and Kinross Council. The recently completed link road will allow west-east journeys to the north of Perth to bypass the city centre, helping to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion and improve journey times. Air quality modelling for the project predicted that there would be a beneficial effect on NO2, PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations in the majority of locations assessed, with areas like Atholl Street and Bridgend seeing the largest improvements in air quality. With the link road now completed, the change in road traffic movements and their impact on air quality both within Perth and in surrounding towns and villages must be closely monitored. The project also includes significant active and sustainable travel infrastructure, including cycle routes, bus priority measures, EV chargers and a new Park and Choose site on the west side of the Tay. As a result this development provides the opportunity for a shift towards greener modes of transport, leading to potential further improvements in air quality in Perth. Furthermore, the resultant reduction in traffic flows through the centre of Perth will allow for the delivery of the planned active travel improvements in Phase 4 of the Perth Transport Futures Project (see 5.2), continuing the drive for active travel in and around Perth. Measure Title B.1 Cross Tay Link Road Definition Key Intervention a. Assess the impact of the completed CTLR on air quality both within Perth AQMA and surrounding towns b. Deliver Phase 4 of Perth Transport Futures Project to improve active and sustainable travel within Perth City Divert through traffic around the city and reduce the volume of traffic within the city, directly reducing main source of air pollution in hotspots of Atholl St and Bridgend Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Traffic and Network/Transport Planning, Transport Scotland Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reducing Vehicles in Town Centres, Increase Active Transport Across Perth and Kinross, Improve Public Transport Provision B.2 Incentivise Parking out with City Centre Hotspots Perth and Kinross Council, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, will review and improve the existing parking options outside Perth City Centre to reduce vehicle trips within the city centre with the aim of alleviating the impacts of congestion. PKC will further investigate options to incentivise parking out with the city centre such as improving walking and cycling infrastructure from outer car parks like South Inch, as well as reviewing parking charges within the city. Reducing car journeys though the city centre will help to reduce vehicle emissions in our worst hotspots, while also helping to encourage active travel. Page 60 of 240
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31 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Measure Title B.2 Incentivise parking out with City Centre hotspots Definition Key Intervention Investigate options to encourage parking outside Perth City Centre such as improving walking and cycling routes from outer car parks like South Inch, reviewing parking charges within Perth etc. Encourage parking away from the city centre to reduce traffic and congestion in hotspot areas, while encouraging active travel Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reducing Vehicles in Town Centres B.3 Encourage Low-Car Development The quantity of car parking spaces required as part of new developments (both residential and non- residential) is a matter assessed by the Development Management team at Perth and Kinross. Over provision of car parking can result in a reduction in use of alternative and more sustainable travel methods by promoting car use, which further increases congestion and vehicle emissions. Low-Car Development counters these problems by reducing the land used for roads and parking, encouraging less car use/ownership and a more active travel friendly road environment. To further encourage the move to more active and sustainable travel methods in Perth and Kinross, PKC will investigate the definition of an area/areas around Perth City where less car parking spaces are required per development. In accordance with National Planning Framework 4, these areas would be in urban locations which are well served by sustainable transport modes and where they do not create barriers to access by disabled people. Measure Title B.3 Encourage Low-Car Development Definition Key Intervention Define central area within LDP where parking standards are reduced for new developments (both residential and non-residential) to encourage the move to active and sustainable travel Restrict continued provision of car parking in future developments to encourage alternative forms of transport Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Development Management Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reducing Vehicles in Town Centres Page 61 of 240
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32 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL C.Traffic Measures C.1 Continued Improvement of UTMC System The Urban Traffic Management and Control system (UTMC) is continually updated to optimise traffic flow through the City Centre, reducing congestion and improving air quality. As part of this process, new technologies will be sought and trialled to further improve the traffic network in Perth. New traffic detectors will be utilised to allow PKC to identify vehicle types and use this information for phasing/ timing changes. A new method of control will also be implemented on a trial corridor (Atholl Street/Bridgend) to identify how we can better manage congestion and improve air quality. Variable message signs have also been installed as part of the Cross Tay Link Road project and following this, we will be looking to extend the coverage across the city to allow us to inform drivers travelling into the City Centre. This will allow us to advise drivers of any congested routes ahead and redirect them, thereby reducing further congestion and idling within the centre. Measure Title C.1 Continued improvement of UTMC system Definition Key Intervention a. Assess and optimise traffic management in Perth centre on a regular basis b. Investigate usage of smart technologies alongside traffic management system to suppress congestion (e.g. AQ sensors, variable message signage etc) Reduce congestion and increase traffic flow within Perth City through optimisation of traffic management systems Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Traffic and Network/Transport Planning Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres C.2 Anti-Idling Scheme In 2023 PKC adopted powers to undertake enforcement through Traffic Regulation Orders to compel drivers to switch off idling engines. Fixed penalty notices can now be issued to drivers who refuse to co-operate. Though the power to issue fixed penalty notices are now available to PKC, in the majority of cases officers would seek to follow a ‘4 E’s’ approach to enforcement: Engage with the public, Explain the risk to public health idling presents, Encourage compliance and reenforce the benefits of cleaner air as a result of less idling, and finally Enforce if the first 3 E’s did not achieve compliance and the switching off of the idling engine. Measure Title C.2 Anti-idling Scheme Definition Key Intervention Enforcement of Anti Idling following the ‘4 E’s’ approach (Engage, Explain, Encourage and Enforce), issuing of fixed penalty notices for those who refuse to cooperate Enforcement against idling vehicles can contribute to reducing emissions of air pollutants but also help to raise awareness of air quality issues. Page 62 of 240
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33 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Parking/EH The Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) (Fixed Penalty) (Scotland) Regulations 2003 Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Engagement and Education – General Engagement C.3 Traffic monitoring Traffic monitoring works hand in hand with air quality monitoring to establish the current situation in Perth and allow the construction of air quality models, which are vital for the assessment of current and future air quality in Perth. Increasing PKC’s traffic monitoring capabilities will give us access to more frequent data, allowing the assessment of current conditions and the effect of any short-term changes. Measure Title C.3 Traffic monitoring Definition Key Intervention a. Increase regular traffic monitoring within Perth Centre (e.g. Traffic Counters, mode share cordon counts, 24hr count data etc) b. Investigate use of ANPR cameras to give a regular view of public fleet composition Increase PKC traffic monitoring capabilities to allow for more data driven decision making and planning Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Transport Planning Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Governance – Objective and Target Setting Page 63 of 240
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34 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL D.Reduce Emissions from Sources D.1 Encourage Local Fleet Operators to Pursue Cleaner Vehicles PKC takes part in the ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme and has been a member since April 2019. The scheme has since recruited 208 members from the Perth and Kinross area encompassing a fleet of over 7200 vehicles. The team at ECO Stars work with businesses to improve their fleet efficiency, helping to decrease fuel use and vehicle emissions. Local bus and coach operators in Perth do have a relatively modern fleet, but when upgrading can be encouraged to buy vehicles meeting the latest Euro engines standards. Operators can also be encouraged by ECO Stars to use bio-fuels, electric vehicles and/or retro fitting existing vehicles depending on the operator’s situation. Measure Title D.1 Encourage local fleet operators to pursue cleaner vehicles Definition Key Intervention Continue to utilise ECO Stars scheme to promote the use of lower emission vehicles and best fuel saving practices within AQMA Encourage a reduction in emissions of NO2 and PMs from companies operating vehicles in Perth. Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH, TRL/ECO Stars Voluntary and contractual Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Accelerate the EV Transition Business and Industry – Engagement and Empowerment, Strategic Collaboration, Measuring Performance D.2 Freight Improvements PKC is a member of the Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership (TACTRAN) Freight Quality Partnership which includes members from Scottish Enterprise and the private freight sector. PKC and Dundee’s EH managers are members of the Freight Quality Partnership, within which air quality is integrated. The partnership acts as a liaison between freight interests and Councils drawing upon established guidance, to help deliver cost effective packages of freight related interventions across the region. One such project being investigated by PKC Transport Planning and TACTRAN is the development of a freight consolidation centre as part of the future Perth West development, as a method of reducing the trips made in the “last mile” by HGVs entering Perth City. By changing these trips from HGVs to less polluting vehicles such as small vans, electric vehicles, cargo bikes etc., freight emissions within the city can be significantly reduced. Other methods such as dedicated freight rest areas and charging/fuelling services can be used to direct freight transport out with City Centre hotspots. Measure Title D.2 Freight movements Definition Key Intervention a. Continue to work with TACTRAN in the Regional Freight Quality Partnership b. Investigate the development of a regional freight consolidation centre and other measures to Work with TACTRAN to minimise freight contribution to air pollution within Perth AQMA Page 64 of 240
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35 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL reduce the volume of ‘last mile’ trips by HGVs into the city centre c. Investigate Freight Rest/Park Facilities in PKC - integrate with P and R, charging/hydrogen fuelling services Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Transport Planning/ TACTRAN Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres Business and Industry – Engagement and Empowerment, Strategic Collaboration D.3 Public Transport Improvements After active travel, the next most desirable form of transport for air quality improvement is the use of public transport. Public transport within Perth and Kinross is currently undergoing a largescale review as part of the PKC Public Transport Transformation Project, which aims to develop a new transport model that meets the needs of local communities now and in the future. This project will include widescale research and consultation to establish the current transport needs of the public as well as work to enhance awareness and promotion of public transport in Perth & Kinross. The project aims to increase usage of public transport across the region, which will have a significant positive impact on reducing vehicle emissions and improving local air quality. PKC’s Environmental Health and Public Transport Unit (PTU) teams will work together to maximise these benefits wherever possible. Alongside the above work, PKC’s PTU will continue to work with providers to improve and optimise their services, as well as encourage the upgrading of their vehicles where possible to the most efficient options. In addition, air quality modelling data will be shared with bus providers to inform them of areas where buses are responsible for a significant portion of air pollutants and advise on how this could be minimised, for example prioritising the upgrade of vehicles on most polluted routes. Measure Title D.3 Public transport improvements Definition Key Intervention a. Maximise air quality benefits of the Public Transport Transformation Project b. Develop a BSIP (Bus Service Improvement Partnership) for Perth and Kinross and Tayside c. Encourage fleet operators to report fleet composition and improvements d. Ensure emissions are formally included in procurement decisions for public transport e. Advise bus providers of air pollution hotspots where buses are a large proportion of contributors Look at opportunities to improve public transport options and quality, while also working with providers to consider air quality as part of their operations Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Public Transport Unit/EH Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Improve Public Transport Provision Business and Industry – Data and Strategic Targeting, Engagement and Empowerment, Strategic Collaboration, Measuring Performance Governance – Sustainable Procurement Page 65 of 240
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36 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL D.4 Continue to Evaluate the Need for a LEZ in the AQMA A National Low Emissions Framework (NLEF) Screening Appraisal was carried out by PKC in 2020 to assess whether a Low Emission Zone was required to improve air quality within the Perth AQMA. This assessment found that current AQAP measures were sufficient and an LEZ would not be required. However, in light of the changes to travel habits and traffic flows following the Covid-19 pandemic, PKC is aware the situation within Perth may change in the future and will therefore continually review whether a Low Emission Zone or similar vehicle control area should be considered on an annual basis as part of the Annual Progress Report. Measure Title D.4 Continue to evaluate the need for a LEZ in the AQMA Definition Key Intervention Review air quality situation within Perth AQMA on an annual basis to determine whether the existing NLEF assessment is no longer valid Review changes in AQ within Perth AQMA regularly to assess need for LEZ or alternative vehicle control area Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reducing Vehicles in Town Centres D.5 PKC Fleet Improvement For several years PKC has been regularly replacing older Fleet vehicles with Euro 6 or Electric vehicles due to air quality being formally considered in tendering process. In addition to this ongoing improvement to the Council’s fleet vehicles, we must work to meet the stringent Climate Change targets from the Scottish and UK Governments to achieve net zero by 2045. The Council’s Fleet Decarbonisation Strategy (2025-2030) will continue the Council’s transition from diesel fuel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil in its refuse vehicles to reduce their emissions. This strategy will also lead a further push for PKC petrol and diesel vehicles to be replaced with electric alternatives over the next five years, however in order to achieve this, a significant increase in EV charging infrastructure will be required at all Council buildings including depots, schools and offices. Measure Title D.5 PKC Fleet improvement Definition Key Intervention a. AQ continue to be considered in the purchasing of new fleet vehicles b. Increase PKC Fleet EV chargers to support change to EV Continued improvement of PKC’s vehicle fleet to benefit AQ and installation of EV charging infrastructure to help meet decarbonisation target Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Fleet/Transport Planning Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Accelerate the EV Transition Governance – Sustainable Procurement Page 66 of 240
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37 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL D.6 PKC Fleet Management PKC Fleet will continue to improve the Council’s vehicle fuel consumption efficiency in order to reduce our contribution to air pollution in Perth. Currently all vehicles are equipped with telematic systems to obtain data on driver routes and fuel consumption. Provision of staff “eco driving” training will be progressed to further reduce fuel consumption from our fleet. An investigation of fleet activities (e.g. waste collection) in relation to pollution hotspots will also be carried out, with the goal of avoiding unnecessary emission contributions caused by congestion at peak times. This investigation could include assessment of frequent fleet journeys to determine if more efficient routes are available to minimise distance travelled. Furthermore, ongoing work to provide dedicated pool and fleet vehicle hubs in outlying areas around Perth and Kinross will help reduce staff travel in and out of Perth. Measure Title D.6 PKC Fleet management Definition Key Intervention a. Provision of PKC staff driver training to reduce fuel consumption/vehicle emissions b. Investigate fleet activities in relation to pollution hotspots. Assess frequent fleet routes to minimise distance travelled where possible. Increase pool/fleet vehicle hubs in surrounding towns to reduce travel into Perth Minimise PKC contribution to air pollution in Perth and Kinross Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Fleet/Waste Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres Governance – Business and Performance Management D.7 EV Charging Infrastructure Electric Vehicle infrastructure is being continually expanded by PKC, with 80 EV charging points currently available within the Perth and Kinross area. Modelling has shown that this area has the potential to make the biggest impact on transport emissions in the future, and as such will result in a significant improvement in air quality within Perth City, in particular with regards to NO2 emissions. In order to support the transition from fossil fuels to electric, significant investment in electric charging infrastructure will be necessary catering to all users from visiting tourists and shoppers to local residents. This will require both rapid chargers within public car parks and overnight 7kW chargers within local communities where personal home chargers are not possible (e.g. flats, council houses). Measure Title D.7 EV charging infrastructure Definition Key Intervention Support rollout of EV chargers throughout Perth and Kinross Encourage move to electric vehicles by increasing provision of public chargers Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Transport Planning, TACTRAN Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Accelerate the EV Transition Page 67 of 240
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38 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL D.8. School Travel Plans All schools in Perth and Kinross have a School Travel Plan which is aimed at reducing the incidence of car usage, especially around the school gates. These are aimed at both pupils and staff. Exclusion zones around several schools within Perth and Kinross have recently been put in place, further restricting car usage within the vicinity of the school entrances during pick up and drop off times. All school travel plans should be revisited in light of these changes to ensure they are up to date and that measures are in place to reduce car usage and increase active travel on the school run. Measure Title D.8 School travel plans Definition Key Intervention Review and update existing plans for schools within AQMA and integrate with exclusion zones where applicable Reduce car usage and vehicle emissions around schools and encourage the use of active travel alternatives Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Traffic and Network Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Increase Active Transport Across Perth and Kinross, Improve Public Transport Provision, Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres D.9. Domestic Burning In recent years the use of domestic solid fuel appliances has seen an increase across the country, primarily as an additional form of heating but also for the pleasant aesthetic wood burners provide within a living space. This increase has been seen across all regions, both rural and urban, and as a result domestic solid fuel burning is now the largest contributor to UK wide Particulate Matter emissions16. As part of the Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 Strategy, Scottish Government introduced a number of actions aimed at domestic solid fuel burning nationwide, many of which have since been delivered. One such measure which will be progressed in the coming months is Scottish Government’s review and potential revision of the Clean Air Act, which may lead to increased powers for Local Authorities to enforce against smoke emissions from domestic burning. PKC will work together with Scottish Government and the other Scottish Local Authorities on the review of the Clean Air Act to improve the council’s ability to deal with smoke issues in the future. To better understand the cumulative effect domestic burning appliances may be having on particulate matter concentrations within Perth, PKC will seek to gather information on their distribution across the city. This may be achieved through a combination of reviewing prior planning applications containing domestic fuel appliances, collecting information from HETAS on local appliances, and assessing the information through GIS systems to identify hotspots within Perth. One of the difficulties with domestic burning is that poor practices such as burning wet wood or other improper material can lead to substantial increases in smoke and particulate emissions. To try to reduce these emissions, PKC will regularly distribute information on burning “best practices” such as the Defra Burnright guidance through various methods (social media, targeted guidance drops etc.). Measure Title 16 Clean Air Strategy 2019 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/clean-air-strategy-2019 Page 68 of 240
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39 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL D.9 Domestic Burning Definition Key Intervention a. Work with Scottish Government to review the Clean Air Act and improve local authority powers regarding domestic burning appliances b. Seek to gather evidence on distribution of domestic burning appliances within the Perth AQMA and identify hotspots c. Carry out regular distribution of guidance on burning best practices to reduce PM emissions from domestic appliances Behavioural change and education on domestic solid fuel burning to encourage burning best practices and reduce particulate matter emissions Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Environmental Health Voluntary, Clean Air Act 1993 Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Buildings & Energy - Domestic Perth and Kinross Area Properties Page 69 of 240
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40 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL E.Reduce Demand for Traffic E.1 Promotion and Development of Car Clubs PKC will investigate the development of community car clubs as a route to reducing vehicles in town centres with a focus on Perth City as well as promote existing and future alternatives to personal car use across Tayside. This should lead to both a reduction in congestion due to less vehicles on the road, as well as reduce transport emissions and greenhouse gas emissions. Measure Title E.1 Promotion and Development of Car Clubs Definition Key Intervention Promotion and development of car clubs in Perth and Kinross and wider Tayside to encourage a shift to more sustainable forms of travel To encourage a shift to more sustainable forms of travel or reducing the need for personal vehicles. Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres E.2 Park and Rides PKC will continue to work with TACTRAN to maintain the success of the Park and Ride schemes at Broxden and Scone which help reduce the amount of traffic entering Perth City Centre. PKC is committed to continued improvements to these facilities to make them safer or more comfortable. In addition, provision of electric charging and alternative fuel infrastructure (e.g. Hydrogen) for both car users and bus providers at Park and Ride locations will be investigated. The bus company Ember which runs a service from Edinburgh to Dundee using electric buses has expressed particular interest in using Broxden Park and Ride as a recharging stop, and we would look to encourage this. PKC continue to collect activity data at these sites to establish their success and trends in their usage. Moving forward, alternative methods of data collection will be considered such as ANPR cameras for more accurate usage data. PKC will also continue to investigate provision of additional Park and Ride/Park and Choose facilities with TACTRAN. This includes the future Park and Choose site included within the Cross Tay Link Road development and a site is already earmarked for future investigation (Walnut Grove) that could catch traffic coming from the Dundee side of Perth. Page 70 of 240
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41 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Measure Title E.2 Park and Rides Definition Key Intervention a. Continue to provide improvements to existing Park and Ride sites (updating bus shelters, passenger information boards etc.) b. Investigate provision of additional Park and Ride/ Park and Choose sites c. Investigate provision of EV and alternative fuel infrastructure for bus charging/refuelling at Park and Ride sites d. Investigate use of cameras to assess Park and Ride usage To improve public transport provision and accessibility to help reduce road traffic Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC PTU/Transport Planning/EH, TACTRAN Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Improve Public Transport Provision, Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres, Accelerate the EV Transition Page 71 of 240
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42 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL F. Education and Community Measures F.1 Promotion of Active Travel Encouraging the move to active travel will be a key focus within PKC’s new Mobility strategy, alongside our existing ‘On the Go’ social marketing campaigns which are funded through Smarter Choices Smarter Places. To further encourage members of the community to adopt active and sustainable travel alternatives, walking and cycling infrastructure within Perth will continue to be improved. It is also recommended that as part of the AQAP, the Travel Guide is updated and reissued as required. The Sustrans Perth, People, Place project will invest in sustainable transport corridors across Perth to better connect places and people, with a particular focus on the Dunkeld Road Corridor. As a key link road to the pollution hot spot of Atholl Street, improving active travel on Dunkeld Road is essential to improving air quality in central Perth. Furthermore, a Perth Active Travel Hub is due to be created in the city integrating with and supporting the Perth, People, Place project. The development in Perth City Centre will provide an active travel hub and will support bike hire facilities and improvements to cycle and walking routes across Perth and the creation of a car club. Funding streams such as Transport Scotland’s eBike Grant Fund are available to help local authorities procure ebikes, etrikes, ecargo bikes etc. to further encourage the move to active travel. An advantage to ebikes over traditional bikes is their appeal to those with mobility issues, due to electric motor taking some of the load for example when going up hills. PKC will investigate the provision of eBikes for Perth, tying in with the above-mentioned active travel projects. Measure Title F.1 Promotion of active travel Definition Key Intervention a. Continue to develop/ promote active/sustainable travel through social marketing campaigns, improve active travel infrastructure and continue to investigate funding sources b. Work with TACTRAN to deliver Walking and Cycling Strategy in the region. c. Work with Transport Scotland and Transport Planning to deliver Perth Active Travel Hub and Perth People Place project d. Investigate provision of eBikes for Perth To encourage a shift away from the use of private motor vehicles for travelling to more sustainable forms of transport or reducing the need for travel. Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Transport Planning, TACTRAN Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Increase Active Transport Across Perth and Kinross Engagement and Education – General Engagement Page 72 of 240
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43 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL F.2 Provision of Travel Information PKC provides a comprehensive guide to public transport options on our website. This includes an archive of all local bus timetables, information on concession options for bus and rail travel as well as links to Traveline Scotland’s Journey Planner to enable public to make informed choices when planning a journey. To further improve travel information, our Public Transport Unit has been committed to gradually rolling out real time passenger information (RTPI) at key bus stops throughout Perth and Kinross, as experience has shown that provision of RTPI boards in bus stops can increase patronage. As well as the capability to show real time bus information, these boards can also be used to display other important information such as weather warnings, advertisement of active travel events and schemes (e.g. Clean Air Day). TACTRAN are working to pilot a Mobility as a Service (MaaS) project within the TACTRAN area, which would aim to address the travel issues of those who do not own a car by enabling/assisting people to make multi modal journeys. This region wide MaaS platform would aim to bring together real-time journey planning, booking and the payment systems of public, active and shared mode transport operators. Currently the project is being led by Perth Royal Infirmary, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and Dundee and Angus College, however PKC will investigate whether the Council could integrate with this. Measure Title F.2 Provision of travel information Definition Key Intervention a. Maintain current Public Transport Guides and section on PKC website b. Increased provision of RTPI boards at bus stops throughout Perth c. Continue to promote and investigate use of TACTRAN ENABLE MaaS project to help people make multi modal trips Provide easy access to all forms of travel information to encourage sustainable transport methods Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC, TACTRAN Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport - Increase Active Transport Across Perth and Kinross Engagement and Education – General Engagement F.3 Awareness Raising and Education PKC have a ‘Schools on the Go’ package of workshops for both primary and secondary pupils, which is regarded as an example of best practice by Transport Scotland. These workshops encourage pupils to consider why active and sustainable travel is beneficial to the environment and health. The workshops will equip the community with the skills and knowledge to make informed choices that will influence future travel choices. Events such as Clean Air Day also give a good opportunity to raise awareness on air quality for both school pupils and members of the wider public, and PKC will seek to continue to carry out these projects and expand public engagement opportunities wherever possible. Page 73 of 240
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44 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Measure Title F.3 Awareness raising and education Definition Key Intervention a. Continue to encourage and promote and increase awareness of active and sustainable transport options through working with partner organisations b. Educate public on AQ through social media projects, presentations at local schools/community meetings etc. Continue to encourage and promote and increase awareness of active and sustainable transport options through working with partner organisations and the community. Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Engagement and Education – General Engagement, Schools and Young People F.4 Encourage Move to Electric Vehicles Although the electric vehicle (EV) industry has made significant technological advances in recent years, with most manufacturers producing a variety of EVs and battery technology increasing distance between charges, much work is still to be done to encourage both the public and businesses to change to electric vehicles. In addition to making sure there is a good provision of electric charging points across Perth and Kinross to give confidence to new users, PKC can further encourage the move to EV through our social media channels in advance of the 2030 end of diesel/petrol vehicle production. Advantages of EVs such as long term savings on fuel, environmental benefits and ease of use can be advertised, as well as signposting government schemes to help with the purchase of EVs and installation of home chargers. This can be further expanded to businesses and organisations with vehicle fleets in Perth and Kinross. ECO Stars will continue to work with PKC alongside our Licensing team to advocate electric vehicles for businesses, taxi companies and other licensed transport providers, as well as gather feedback from our scheme members on what PKC can do to help them change to electric. Measure Title F.4 Encourage move to EV Definition Key Intervention Encourage the move to EVs through social media and working with taxi, bus and other private companies Reduce overall vehicle emissions in Perth and Kinross by encouraging public move to electric vehicles Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC Licensing, ECO Stars/TRL Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Accelerate the EV Transition Governance – Sustainable Procurement Page 74 of 240
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45 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL F.5 Improve Council’s Provision of Air Quality Information Though the Council can achieve much to improve air quality through the measures proposed within this Action Plan, ensuring the community is well informed of the issues and ways they can help reduce air pollution and travel more sustainably is also vital for success. Environmental Health currently has an air quality page on the PKC website which contains links to our Air Quality Action plans and Annual Progress Reports. This webpage will be improved further to give the public access to more information on monitoring, recent progress towards AQAP measures and national strategies like CAFS 2. Upcoming and ongoing consultation exercises will also be advertised on this website. The network of real time passenger information boards at bus stops across Perth and Kinross can be further utilized to advertise air quality, climate change and/or active travel events such as Clean Air Day, issue reminders of anti-idling enforcement and give information on upcoming consultations such as AQAP reviews. Measure Title F.5 Improve councils’ provision of AQ information Definition Key Intervention Provide public with better AQ information Inform public of air quality issues, projects and other information to improve uptake of air pollution reducing activities Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Engagement and Education – General Engagement Page 75 of 240
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46 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL G.Improve Local Air Quality Monitoring G.1 Increase Air Quality Monitoring Network PKC will continue to monitor air quality within Perth and ensure that monitoring is in line with LAQM statutory duties, thus guaranteeing monitoring data is robust for annual reports and the decisions on air quality measures are well informed. Investigation of new technologies such as small sensors will be carried out in order to increase monitoring data throughout Perth, with particular focus on PM monitoring. Measure Title G.1 Increase AQ monitoring network Definition Key Intervention Investigate increased PM monitoring and the use of small sensors for further data in Perth and Kinross in line with greater PM importance in CAFS2 and Environment Bill 2021 Continue to access and review monitoring to collate accurate data to ensure more accurate and informed decisions on air quality measures, modelling and reporting. Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Governance – Objective and Target Setting G.2 Increased Air Quality Modelling PKC has commissioned a regional air quality model for Perth and Kinross which encompasses Perth. The model will allow more continuity with regards to planning applications that require an Air Quality Assessment. The model can also be used to predict any future exceedances of the Air Quality Objectives within the Perth area resulting from future developments. In conjunction with increased traffic monitoring, the air quality model can be continually updated to show the current situation within Perth, helping focus improvement measures. Measure Title G.2 Increased AQ modelling Definition Key Intervention Carry out more regular traffic modelling and AQ modelling Maintain up-to-date air quality model for use within planning and transport decision Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH, External Consultants Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Governance – Objective and Target Setting Page 76 of 240
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47 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL G.3 Scenario Modelling To ensure future changes to Perth’s road network do not negatively affect air quality, traffic modelling can be used to predict changes to traffic flows and estimate the change in vehicle emissions. The Perth regional air quality model can then be used to predict air quality concentrations resulting from these road network changes. This will allow for several different road change scenarios to be explored before any physical road works even begin, enabling any alternative and more efficient changes to be discovered while also ensuring any future air pollution hotspots are designed out early on before they occur. Alternative configurations to existing junctions in hotspot areas (e.g. Atholl Street, Bridgend) can also potentially be optimised through the use of traffic modelling, reducing congestion and improving air quality as a result. Our Traffic and Network and Transport Planning colleagues will therefore work alongside consultants to carry out modelling works to improve air quality in Perth where possible through road layout and traffic management changes. Measure Title G.3 Scenario modelling Definition Key Intervention Carry out both traffic modelling and AQ Modelling of future changes to road network, both planned (Phase 4, Dunkeld Road Corridor) and experimental to assess how changes will affect air quality Ensure future road changes consider air quality impacts via modelling data, to prevent an increase in emissions Responsible authority and other partners Powers to be used PKC EH/Transport Planning, External Consultants Voluntary Related Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Transport – Reduce Vehicles in Town Centres The Stakeholders having undertaken evaluation criteria for all measures have compiled a summary of the results of the assessment which is presented in Table 3.1 below. Each of the measures have been evaluated following a specific criterion, the evaluation process is detailed in Appendix F. Page 77 of 240
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48 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Table 3.1: Action Plan Measures (to be read in conjunction with Section 3) Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments A.1 Improve Links with Regional Transport Strategy Ensure that AQ and Climate change are considered in Transport Planning for Perth at a regional strategy level. Such considerations would include: a. Promoting measures to reduce traffic within Perth City (reducing trips/promoting alternatives) b. Promoting measures to promote ULEV in and around Perth TACTRAN Transport Planning EH Yes N Long* Transport *RTS will cover 2024- 2034. Page 78 of 240
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49 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments A.2 Ensure Mobility Strategy delivered in line with CAFS2 Ensure that air quality and CAFS2 objectives are integrated into the delivery of the future Perth and Kinross Mobility Strategy. Transport and Development Y Y Long Transport A.3 Ensure Integration of Air Quality with Other Council Strategies and Policies a. Joint-working between Council Services to consider air quality implications of existing/ future Council strategies/ policies, b. Ensure air quality impacts and mitigation measures are considered at the design stage for all proposed developments across the Local PKC Y Y Medium/Long Governance Page 79 of 240
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50 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments Development Plan area c. Ensure air quality is formally considered in future tender processes, particularly for new PKC vehicles and public transport decisions (i.e. for school subsidised public services, school buses and taxis) A.4 Planning and AQ a. Continue to consider air quality in planning decisions b. Review/Increase enforcement and monitoring of new Planning EH Y N Medium/ Long Transport Business and Industry Page 80 of 240
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51 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments development green travel plans. c. Improve use of existing AQ Supplementary Guidance d. Ensure provision of EV chargers and active travel infrastructure in developments wherever feasible (e.g. safe cycle storage) B.1 Cross Tay Link Road a. Assess the impact of the completed CTLR on air quality both within Perth AQMA and surrounding towns Large (5) Very High (1) Medium (5) Traffic and Network Transport Planning Y Y Short Transport Page 81 of 240
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52 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments b. Deliver Phase 4 of Perth Transport Futures Project to improve active and sustainable travel within Perth City Transport Scotland B.2 Incentivise parking out with City Centre hotspots Investigate options to encourage parking outside Perth City Centre such as improving walking and cycling routes from outer car parks like South Inch, reviewing parking charges within Perth etc. Small (1) Medium (3) Low (3) PKC Y Y Medium/Long Transport Page 82 of 240
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53 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments B.3 Encourage Low-Car Development Define central area within LDP where parking standards are reduced for new developments (both residential and non- residential) to encourage the move to active and sustainable travel Medium (2) Low (4) Medium (8) Planning Y Y Long Transport Would improve health and wellbeing. May be challenging where infrastructure for active travel is not in place C.1 Continued improvement of UTMC system a. Assess and optimise traffic management in Perth centre on a regular basis b. Investigate usage of smart technologies Medium (2) Medium (2) Cost neutral (5) Medium (3) High (10) Medium (6) Traffic and Network Transport Planning Y Y Y Short Transport Page 83 of 240
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54 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments alongside traffic management system to suppress congestion (e.g. AQ sensors, smart signage etc) C.2 Anti-Idling Enforcement Enforcement of Anti Idling following the ‘4 E’s’ approach (Engage, Explain, Encourage and Enforce), issuing of fixed penalty notices for those who refuse to cooperate Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) Parking EH Y Y Short Education and Engagement C.3 Traffic Monitoring a. Increase regular traffic monitoring within Perth Centre (e.g. Traffic Counters, mode share cordon Zero(0) Medium (3) Low (0) Transport Planning Y N Medium/Long Governance While this would not result in a direct air quality benefit it would be vital for Page 84 of 240
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55 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments counts, 24hr count data etc) b. Investigate use of ANPR cameras to give a regular view of public fleet composition continued management of the AQAP D.1 Encourage local fleet operators to pursue cleaner vehicles Continue to utilise ECO Stars scheme to promote the use of lower emission vehicles and best fuel saving practices within AQMA Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) EH ECO Stars Y Y Medium Transport Business and Industry D.2 Freight Improvements a. Continue to work with TACTRAN in the Regional Freight Quality Partnership Zero (0) Cost Neutral (5) Low (0) TACTRAN Transport Planning Y Y Medium/Long Transport Business and Industry While the majority of these measures are investigative Page 85 of 240
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56 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments b. Investigate the development of a regional freight consolidation centre and other measures to reduce the volume of ‘last mile’ trips into the city centre c. Investigate Freight Rest/Park Facilities in PKC - integrate with Park and Ride, charging/ hydrogen fuelling services Zero (0) Zero (0) Low (4) Low (4) Low (0) Low (0) and have no direct air quality impact, should they be implemented following successful investigation there will be a much higher potential to improve air quality D.3 Public transport improvements a. Maximise air quality benefits of the Public Transport Transformation Project b. Develop a BSIP (Bus Service Small (1) Medium (3) Low (3) PTU EH Y Y Short/ Medium Transport Business and Industry Governance Page 86 of 240
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57 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments Improvement Partnership) for Perth and Kinross and Tayside c. Encourage fleet operators to report fleet composition and improvements d. Ensure emissions are formally included in procurement decisions for public transport e. Advise bus providers of air pollution hotspots where buses are a large proportion of contributors Page 87 of 240
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58 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments D.4 Continue to evaluate the need for an LEZ in the AQMA Review air quality situation within Perth AQMA on an annual basis to determine whether the existing NLEF assessment remains valid Zero (0)* *should an LEZ be required, a separate assessment of its air quality impact will be made Low (4) Low (0) EH Y Y Long Transport D.5 PKC Fleet Improvement a. AQ continue to be considered in the purchasing of new fleet vehicles. b. Increase PKC Fleet EV chargers to support change to EV Medium (2) Medium (3) Medium (6) Fleet Transportation and Development Y Y Medium/ Long Transport Governance Page 88 of 240
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59 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments D.6 PKC Fleet Management a. Provision of PKC staff driver training to reduce fuel consumption/vehicle emissions b. Investigate fleet activities in relation to pollution hotspots. Assess frequent fleet routes to minimise distance travelled where possible. Increase pool/fleet vehicle hubs in surrounding towns to reduce travel into Perth Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) Fleet Y Y Short/ Medium Transport Governance D.7 EV Charging Infrastructure Support rollout of EV chargers throughout Perth AQMA Small (1) High (2) Low (2) Transportation and Development Y N Long Transport Dependent on securing additional funding Page 89 of 240
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60 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments D.8 School Travel Plans Review and update existing plans for schools within AQMA and integrate with exclusion zones where applicable Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) EH PTU Traffic and Network Y Y Short Transport Improvement of air quality around schools for health benefit of children with developing lungs. Improving road safety close to schools could have unintended consequences to locations out with the exclusion zones Page 90 of 240
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61 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments D.9 Domestic Emissions a. Work with Scottish Government to review the Clean Air Act and improve local authority powers regarding domestic burning appliances b. Seek to gather evidence on distribution of domestic burning appliances within the Perth AQMA and identify hotspots c. Carry out regular distribution of guidance on burning best practices to reduce excessive PM emissions from domestic appliances Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) EH Y N Medium Buildings & Energy Page 91 of 240
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62 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments E.1 Promotion and Development of car clubs Promotion and development of car clubs in Perth and Kinross and wider Tayside to encourage a shift to more sustainable forms of travel Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) PKC Y Y Medium Transport E.2 Park and Rides a. Continue to provide improvements to existing Park and Ride sites (updating bus shelters, passenger information boards etc.) b. Investigate provision of additional Park and Ride/ Park and Choose sites Zero (0) Medium (3) Low (0) PTU Transportation and Development EH Y N (Y if implemented post investigation) Medium Transport Page 92 of 240
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63 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments c. Investigate provision of EV and alternative fuel infrastructure for bus charging/refuelling at Park and Ride sites d. Investigate use of cameras to assess Park and Ride usage F.1 Promotion of active travel a. Continue to develop/ promote active/sustainable travel through social marketing campaigns, improve active travel infrastructure and continue to investigate funding sources b. Work with TACTRAN to deliver Medium (2) Medium (3) Medium (6) PKC TACTRAN Y Y Medium Transport Education and Engagement Page 93 of 240
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64 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments Walking and Cycling Strategy in the region. c. Work with Transport Scotland and Transport Planning to deliver Perth Active Travel Hub F.2 Provision of travel information a. Maintain current Public Transport Guides and section on PKC website b. Increased provision of RTPI boards at bus stops throughout Perth c. Continue to promote and investigate use of TACTRAN ENABLE Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) PKC TACTRAN PTU Y Y Short/ Medium Transport Education and Engagement Page 94 of 240
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65 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments MaaS project to help people make multi modal trips F.3 Awareness raising and education a. Continue to encourage and promote and increase awareness of active and sustainable transport options through working with partner organisations b. Educate public on AQ through social media projects, presentations at local schools/community meetings etc. Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) PKC EH Y Y Short/ Medium Education and Engagement Page 95 of 240
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66 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments F.4 Encourage move to EV Encourage the move to EVs through social media and working with taxi, bus and other private companies Small (1) Low (4) Low (4) Transportation and Development EH Y Y Short/ Medium Transport Governance F.5 Improve Council’s provision of AQ information Provide public with better AQ information. Small (1) Cost Neutral (5) Medium (5) EH Y N Short Education and Engagement G.1 Increase AQ monitoring network a. Investigate increased PM monitoring and the use of small sensors for further data in Perth and Kinross in line with greater PM importance in CAFS2 and Environment Bill 2021 Zero (0) Low (4) Low (0) EH Y N Medium Governance Page 96 of 240
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67 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments b. Utilise small sensors to improve AQ data collection in Perth and Kinross G.2 Increased AQ Modelling Carry out more regular traffic modelling and AQ modelling Zero (0) Medium (3) Low (0) EH AQ consultant/ Systra Y N Medium Governance While the measure would not result in a direct AQ improvement, this work is necessary to establish where improvement measures are most required G.3 Scenario Modelling Carry out AQ Modelling of future changes to road network, both planned (Phase 4, DCRD) and Zero (0) Medium (3) Low (0) EH AQ consultant/ Systra Y Y Medium Transport While the measure would not result in a direct air Page 97 of 240
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68 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Proposed Measure Description Potential Air Quality Impact Zero 0% Small 1% Medium 2- 5% Large > 5% Estimated Costs per annum Cost Neutral Low <£20k Medium £20k<£60k High £60k<£200k Very High >£200k Cost Effectiveness Low ≤ 4 Med 5-9 High ≥10 Lead Authority Feasibility/ Acceptability Potential Social Impacts / Potential Economic Impacts Short Term 1-2 yrs Medium Term 3-6 yrs Long Term > 6yrs Relevant PKC Climate Change Action Plan Focus Area Comments experimental to assess how changes will affect air quality Transport Planning quality benefit, it would support the design of any future scenarios and identify any possible unintended consequences which would be more cost effective than mitigation measures. Page 98 of 240
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69 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 4 Assessment of Improvement Measures This section outlines the work undertaken by the steering group to consider action plan improvement measures as outlined in LAQM Policy Guidance for Scotland 2023 (LAQM. PG (S) (23)). From the initial full list of options, measures were selected based on their feasibility and effectiveness to take forward into a draft Air Quality Action Plan. This draft will be then taken to public consultation, from which responses will be used to help finalise the options included in the final AQAP. 4.1 Range of Possible Measures The Policy Guidance LAQM.PG (S) (23) states that AQAPs must focus on ‘effective, feasible, proportionate and quantifiable measures’ and provide ‘evidence that all available options have been considered on the grounds of cost effectiveness and feasibility’. A range of potential options are available to PKC and other stakeholders to improve local air quality within the Perth AQMA, and the surrounding area. Therefore, it was important at the early stages of the action planning process to consider all potential options. The identification of potential measures for the consideration of the steering group was undertaken through a review of existing local and regional plans, consideration of measures referenced in LAQM.PG (S) (23) as well as recommendations of members of the steering group. Whilst PKC may not have the necessary powers to implement all such options, they may engage with other organisations and agencies that have the capacity to take such options forward. A list of seven ‘Option Categories’ was presented to the steering group; the group was invited to provide an initial assessment of their feasibility and applicability. Each option category includes several specific options. 4.2 Responses to the Measures From the draft list of options considered by the steering group, a decision will be made on which options to take forward as measures in the final action plan and those options to be discounted from further action. This decision will be a result of: Comments received from the steering group members The conclusions from the source apportionment exercise and LAQM assessments presented in Appendix D and Appendix E. Additional comments from Perth and Kinross Council’s consultant based on experience in prior assessments. Feasibility and acceptability of measures Public Consultation on the draft Perth AQAP measures Page 99 of 240
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70 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The measures currently discounted from further development are presented below: Table 4.1: AQAP Improvement Measures Eliminated from Further Consideration Options eliminated from further consideration in the Perth AQAP Reason for Elimination Tighter restrictions on efficiency of School taxis, minibuses etc. (Euro 6, Hybrid or EV) High cost implications for both Council and local transport providers due to the large investment required to upgrade existing vehicles. This would likely lead to higher fares for the public. The options listed above have been excluded from further consideration at this time, after consultation with the steering group as, they were either not considered feasible, or were not believed to have an appropriately targeted impact on the predominant sources of emissions identified in the further assessment. Notwithstanding, should future consultation result in justifiable reasons to revisit any of these options then, the benefits may be reconsidered. More information on the evaluation process regarding the action plan measures can be found in Appendix F. Page 100 of 240
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71 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 5 AQ Legislation, Strategies and Plans Alongside the national legislation and guidance all local authorities must work to, there are several related plans and strategies at the local, regional and national level that are directly aligned with the aims of the AQAP and will help to contribute to overall improvements in air quality across the PKC area. This chapter sets out the main links between these strategies and the AQAP. Some polices are new policies introduced since the existing AQAP was published in 2009. 5.1 Legislation and Guidance Environment Act 1995 Part IV of the Environment Act 199517 places a duty on the Secretary of State for the Environment to develop, implement and maintain an Air Quality Strategy with the aim of reducing atmospheric emissions and improving air quality. The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland provides the framework for ensuring the air quality limit values are complied with based on a combination of international, national and local measures to reduce emissions and improve air quality. This includes the statutory duty, also under Part IV of the Environment Act 1995, where local authorities must assess air quality in their areas on an annual basis. This review and assessment process in known as Local Air Quality Management (LAQM). The focus on local air quality is reflected in the air quality objectives (AQOs) set out in the Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland18 and The Air Quality Standards (Scotland) Regulations 201019. The strategy presents measures to control and improve the quality of air in the UK and reflects the increasing understanding of the potential health risks associated with poor air quality and the benefits that can be gained from its improvements. Local Authorities are required to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) where it is likely that these objectives will not be achieved and to prepare an Action Plan to set out proposed measures to be taken to achieve the air quality objectives. Environment Act 2021 The Environment Act 2021 acts as the UK’s new framework for environmental protection since the UK has left the EU. Schedule 11 outlines the local air quality framework and the duty on local authorities to report on air quality. The Air Quality Strategy (AQS) for England, Scotland, Wales and N. Ireland DEFRA and the Devolved Administrations published the Air Quality Strategy20 in 2011 which introduced new objectives and policy measures, including: early uptake of new tighter European vehicle emission standards (Euro standards); incentives for cleaner vehicles; the following measures that are considered to require additional development work: reducing emissions from small combustion plants; 17 Environment Act 1995. Available at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-planning-framework-3/ 18 The air quality strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. March 2011. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-air-quality-strategy-for-england-scotland-wales-and-northern-ireland-volume-1 19 The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010. Available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/1001/contents/made 20 The air quality strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: Volume 1 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Page 101 of 240
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72 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL retrofitting of particulate filters to HGVs; low emission zones; a national road pricing scheme. The Scottish Government have set more stringent national objectives for PM10 in Scotland and have introduced the requirement for local authorities to monitor PM2.5 with an annual mean objective level of 10µg/m3 to be achieved by 2020. The relevant Scottish air quality objectives for the key pollutants are presented in Table 5.1. Table 5.1: Scottish Air Quality Objectives Pollutant Air Quality Objectives (µg/m3) Measured as Date to be achieved by 40 Annual Mean 31.12.2005Nitrogen Dioxide 200 One hour mean, not to be exceeded more than 18 times per year (equivalent to the 99.79th percentile of hourly means 31.12.2005 18 Annual Mean 31.12.2010Particulate Matter (PM10) 50 24 hour mean, not to be exceeded more than 7 times a year (equivalent to the 98.08th percentile of 24-hour means) Particulate Matter (PM2.5) 10 Annual Mean 31.12.2020 Clean Air Strategy 2019 The Clean Air Strategy21 published in 2019 is a document which outlines actions set by the Government to tackle air pollution. The strategy applies across the UK, highlighting actions to be taken across Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The strategy is a result of an extensive consultation process which has collated feedback on the actions the Government is proposing to help tackle air pollution. The actions in the Strategy are currently still in line with EU requirements to reduce air pollution and provides detailed information on proposals and actions which are required from all parts of government and society. Its aim is to provide guidance on how the Government and Devolved Administrations intend to reduce their emissions. LAQM Technical Guidance TG.22 Local Air Quality Management Technical Guidance 2222 (LAQM TG.22) is designed to support local authorities in carrying out their duties under the Environment Act 1995 and subsequent regulations. LAQM is the statutory process by which local authorities monitor, assess and take action to improve local air quality. Where a local authority identifies areas of non-compliance of the air quality objectives there is a statutory need to declare the area of non-compliance as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and to draw up an action plan (AQAP) detailing measured proposed to address the exceedances. 21 Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs: Clean Air Strategy 2019. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/clean-air-strategy-2019 22 Part IV of the Environment Act 1995: Local Air Quality Management Technical Guidance (TG22), August 22. Available at: https://laqm.defra.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/LAQM-TG22-August-22-v1.0.pdf Page 102 of 240
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73 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL LAQM Policy Guidance PG(S).23 This policy guidance23 provides guidance to help local authorities with their local air quality management duties in line with the Environment Act 1995. The guidance outlines the background and legislative framework to which the local authorities must work to; the principles behind reviews and assessments of air quality and the recommended steps; how local authorities should handle the designation of AQMAs; the development of local air quality strategies and the general principles behind air quality and land use planning. Cleaner Air for Scotland (CAFS2) Cleaner Air for Scotland24 is a cross-government strategy which details how the Scottish Government, and any partner organisations propose to reduce air pollution and fulfil Scotland’s legal requirements. It provides a national framework which allows the public to better understand how the Scottish Government and associated organisations will achieve these goals. The strategy outlines a range of policies and initiatives which include a National Modelling Framework; a National Low Emission Framework; the adoption of World Health Organisation guideline values for particulate matter in Scottish Legislation and proposals for raising more awareness on national air quality. Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 is a strategy which builds on the progress made since the introduction of Cleaner Air for Scotland: The Road to a Healthier Future (CAFS). Measures in the new strategy will deliver environmental and social benefits and focus on 10 general themes. The sub measures outlined below each theme are relevant to PKC and align with the measures within the PKC AQAP: 1. A Precautionary Approach o Consider both air pollution and health when implementing measures to tackle air pollution 2. Integrated Policy o Significant overlap between the measures needed to address climate change and improve air quality. 3. Placemaking o Reducing the need to travel o Safe walking, cycling and public transport options 4. Better Data o Continue to collect both air quality and traffic data that is relevant, robust and fit for purpose 5. Public Engagement and Behaviours Change o Focus communication on health and environmental impacts, rather than concentrations or emissions o Ensure promoted behavioural changes are easier, more convenient and preferably cheaper than the status quo 6. Environmental Regulation o Sector-specific emissions of air pollution (such as point source releases, materials handling and fugitive emissions) are likely to be controlled through permitting 7. Tackling Non-Transport Emissions Sources 23 Part IV of the Environment Act 1995: Local Air Quality Management Policy Guidance PG(S) (23), March 23. Available at https://www.gov.scot/binaries/content/documents/govscot/publications/advice-and-guidance/2023/03/local-air-quality- management-policy-guidance/documents/part-iv-environment-act-1995-local-air-quality-management-policy-guidance/part-iv- environment-act-1995-local-air-quality-management-policy-guidance/govscot%3Adocument/part-iv-environment-act-1995-local- air-quality-management-policy-guidance.pdf 24 Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 – business and regulatory impact assessment. The Scottish Government. October 2020. Available at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/cleaner-air-scotland-2-business-regulatory-impact- assessment/documents/http://www.scottishairquality.scot/lez/ Page 103 of 240
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74 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL o Whilst road transport in urban areas remains the issue of most concern in relation to air quality and its impact on human health, the CAFS review emphasised the need for a greater focus on other sectors, notably domestic (household) combustion and agriculture. 8. Transport o Manage demand and decrease absolute traffic levels by reducing vehicle journeys o Reduce the need to travel unsustainably 9. Governance, Accountability and Delivery o The Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) system is the main focus for air quality action at the local and regional level. 10. Further Progress Review o Review progress and continue to work towards targets for both air quality and climate change CAFS2 recognises the shared common sources between greenhouse gases and air pollution such as transport, energy generation and land use. Therefore, measures outlined to reduce air pollution can benefit climate change by reducing greenhouse gases. National Low Emissions Framework (NLEF) The NLEF25, published in January 2019, is intended to compliment and work along with the existing established LAQM regime and work towards the deliverables in CAFS. The NLEF appraisal process is designed to assist local authorities to determine if a LEZ is appropriate to address air quality issues. The NLEF two stage assessment should be undertaken where transport emissions are the primary reason for the declaration of an AQMA. The first stage is the screening stage. The screening stage aims to identify if the committed measures are likely to remove exceedances of the air quality objectives and if the Scottish government and SEPA confirms their agreement of the findings, then no further work will be required under the NLEF appraisal process. The action plan measures, and their anticipated timescales will remain. Where the screening exercise identifies that the committed measures are unlikely to achieve concentrations below the AQ objective levels, there is the need for further assessment under the NLEF appraisal for the AQMA. The first consideration following screening will be if the exceedance is very localised and if more detailed location specific measures could be incorporated into the AQAP. If this approach is deemed suitable then the additional measures and their timescale for implementation will be detailed in the screening outcome report. Otherwise, it is necessary to proceed to the stage two assessment to determine if a LEZ is required. As part of the 2020 Annual Progress Report, NLEF screening was undertaken in Perth. The NLEF screening concluded that proposed measures for the Perth and Crieff AQMAs are sufficient and there is therefore no need to proceed to a Stage 2 Assessment. The screening for the Perth AQMA identified that a LEZ is not required due to the continuing downward trend in pollutants. Planned projects such as the Cross Tay Link Road (CTLR) are expected to have a positive impact upon air quality. Assessment and controls of planned development will also ensure no significant adverse effect on air quality. 25 National Low Emission Framework Available at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-low-emission- framework/documents/ Page 104 of 240
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75 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 5.2 Local Policy and Plans TACTRAN Active travel audits Perth City North Audit Active Travel is one of the key sub-strategies within the Regional Transport Strategy Refresh aimed to support The Cycling Framework for Active Travel and the National Walking Strategy. The sub-strategy identifies a series of key actions to improve active travel within the region. Specifically, Action AT6, Audit, identifies that “Where opportunities arise, locally focused active travel audits will identify priorities for future investment in developing the regional walking and cycling network” The High-Level Actions outlined in the audit for Perth City North26 would reduce reliance on vehicle use to move around Perth and encourage further uptake of active travel methods. PKC Local Development Plan 2019 The Local Development Plan has been updated since the existing AQAP was published. The most recent publication is the Local Development Plan 2 which was published in 201927. Development Plan provides guidance to residents, developers and investors, and allows stakeholders, including the public, to be involved in shaping the future of their area. The Development Plan provides the framework against which planning applications are assessed. Policy 57 of the LDP is related to Air Quality: The LDP seeks to prevent the creation of new pollution hotspots, and to prevent introduction of new human exposure where there could be existing poor air quality. As well as aspiring to improve air quality, the policy also aspires to eliminate the gradual worsening in air quality that is caused by the cumulative impact of many small developments. The LDP outlines that proposals and mitigation measures must not conflict with the actions proposed in Air Quality Action Plans. Perth’s Transport Futures Project It is widely acknowledged that Perth is a major strategic hub in the Scottish transport network where the principal routes connecting the central belt to North and North East Scotland converge. Perth also has the distinct advantage of having major road connections to all of Scotland’s cities with a drive time of within two hours. However, over the past twenty years, as a result of increasing levels of traffic and new development there has been increasing concern and a noticeable increase in traffic congestion and related air quality issues in, and around, Perth. As a result of these traffic and air quality issues, it was clear that there were both current and potentially exacerbated future, problems which needed to be addressed. This was required in order to ensure that congestion did not undermine the future development of the city as set out in the Local Development Plan. The need for a package of measures which address this problem has, therefore, been identified as an issue over many years for successive Councils. These measures have been developed as the Perth 26 Tactran. Active Travel Audits. Available at: https://staging.tactran.gov.uk/ActiveTravelAudits.php 27 Perth and Kinross. Local Development Plan 2. 2019. Available at: https://www.pkc.gov.uk/ldp2 Page 105 of 240
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76 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Transport Futures Project. In the main the Perth Transport Futures Project is focussed on the need for major road infrastructure which will be required to address key congestion points in the road network and to provide essential linkages to growth areas set out in the Local Development Plan. As a result of the timelines required for taking various elements of the Perth’s Transport Future Project forward it has been broken down to a series of phases. While the individual phases all deliver direct benefits, the ability of the Perth network to accommodate the projected economic growth, including the opportunity to create thousands of jobs and in essence deliver the Local Development Plan allocations, will only be achieved with the delivery of the full package of measures. These measures will be delivered over a number of years and are split into four phases: Phase 1 A9/A85 Junction Improvement and Link Road to Bertha Park – completed May 2019 Phase 2 Cross Tay Link Road (CTLR) – A9 to the A93 and A94 Phase 3 Bertha Park North Link to A9 (Linking Phases 1 and 2) Phase 4 Associated City improvements facilitating a move towards greener travel including measures to further develop the cycling, walking and public transport networks in and around Perth. The implementation of much of Phase 4 is only possible due to the freeing up of capacity on the city’s road network as a result of Phases 1 to 3. Perth 2040: Our Agenda for Change This is the third edition of the Perth City Plan28, setting out the agenda for action through to 2040. This 20-year strategy for good growth aims to make Perth a smarter and more modern city, while preserving and capitalising on the qualities that make it unique. The plan has focussed the Perth City Development Board’s (PCDB) priorities for action into 6 sections: 1. Shaping A Growing City 2. Responding to Climate Change 3. Transport and Digital Connections 4. Revitalising the City Centre 5. Enterprise and Prosperity 6. Inclusion and Social Justice Long-term goals include developing the area around Perth Train Station into an active travel hub by 2025, Perth being Scotland’s leading city for active travel by 2030, and Perth being a carbon-neutral city by 2040, five years ahead of the current Scottish Government target. An aim of Priority 2 will be further investment in travel infrastructure such as the implementation of city-wide walking and cycling networks, signage, lighting and traffic management changes will help bring about changes in travel behaviour, measured by the reduction in miles travelled by car and the increase in cycling or walking journeys. Furthermore, Priority 4 seeks to make a more people-friendly city centre environment by reclaiming road space for pedestrians and cyclists to reduce cross-town car trips as well as creating a pedestrian-priority promenade on Tay Street by reducing carriageway widths to allow more shared surfaces and tree planting. 28 Perth 2040: Our Agenda For Change. Available at: https://www.investinperth.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Perth-City- Development-Plan.pdf Page 106 of 240
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77 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL While not expected to result in a direct reduction in air pollution, green infrastructure/tree planting delivered through Perth City Centre reallocation of existing road space will lead to an environment more suited to active travel, thereby encouraging more car users to walk or cycle within Perth City Centre. PKC has the goal of becoming the biodiversity capital of Europe, and green infrastructure is a large part of this. Perth and Kinross Mobility Strategy The Mobility Strategy, more commonly known as a local transport strategy, sets out Perth and Kinross Council’s vision for managing and developing the transport network over a minimum period of 10 years. The Mobility Strategy considers all modes of transport for the movement of people and goods across Perth and Kinross’s rural and urban settings, to help achieve national targets and local objectives. The Mobility Strategy responds to the climate change agenda and other drivers of change at this time. The strategy also considers the impact on the transport networks and people’s travel patterns and behaviours of emerging technologies, digital services, housing, inclusion, poverty, health, climate adaption, economic growth, air quality and placemaking. The Mobility Strategy was developed using Transport Scotland’s appraisal guidance (Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance – STAG). It articulates Perth and Kinross’ strategy for our transport network for the future and gives funding partners confidence in our commitment to achieving national targets. The Mobility Strategy contains several Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) which relate directly to the improvement of air quality in Perth: TPO 3: To reduce CO2 emissions produced by transport across Perth and Kinross, by reducing car kilometres, decarbonising motorised transport and increasing the share of everyday journeys of people and goods by sustainable and active travel modes TPO 7: To improve the capacity and reliability of alternative sustainable freight and logistic modes across Perth and Kinross TPO 10: To improve physical and mental health within Perth and Kinross through walking, wheeling and cycling TPO 11: To improve air quality across Perth and Kinross's road network by achieving revocation of both Air Quality Management Areas and reducing preventable pollutants PKC EV Infrastructure Strategy and Expansion Plan PKC want to deliver an ambitious, accessible and expansive EV charging network that meets the needs of all users throughout the Perth and Kinross council region. Using funding from Transport Scotland’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund (EVIF), PKC will expand the existing network and ensure that those without access to off street parking in urban and rural locations will be able to charge their EV at a nearby charging hub, on street solution, or a public car park based charger. The Transport Scotland EVIF funding will be focussed on 4 Main themes: 1. Mini hubs (3 x rapid, 2 x fast) strategically placed in the region. 2. 40 x fast chargers installed in rural areas, potentially less desirable for private investment. Page 107 of 240
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78 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 3. 40 x fast chargers placed in Perth with high population density and a lack of off street parking. 4. 6 x rapid charging units to be added at existing sites (3 at South Inch hub, 3 at Kinross hub). The delivery of strategically placed mini rapid charging hubs supported by a range of local fast chargers in both urban and rural areas of the region will ensure the network reaches the entire community. The first phase of the project will build on the network that already exists and form part of an overall strategy for the region out to 2045. By creating substantial network coverage it is hoped to deliver an efficient, sustainable and expansive proposition to the private sector and reduce the need for future public subsidies. PKC Public Transformation Project The Public Transport Transformation Project will be carried out over three years (2024/25 - 2026/27) to support the development of a new transport model for Perth and Kinross. This project leverages the new powers granted by the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, focusing on Local Authority-operated transport operations. The project will review public transport delivery and enhance awareness and promotion of public transport in Perth & Kinross. This will help reduce inequalities, tackle climate change, and improve the health and wellbeing of local communities by supporting an inclusive economy. Integrated transport is crucial for efficiency, so home to school, HSCP, and Social Work transport are key elements of this project. The overall aim of the project is to develop a transport model for Perth and Kinross that meets the needs of local communities now and in the future. This model will be integrated, accessible, reliable, efficient and effective, while also considering the external realities and their impact on the Council's statutory school transport duty. The project has been split into four workstreams to examine, review, and develop an overall transport model in terms of the movement of people across Perth and Kinross: Workstream 1 - Local Bus Service Network and Community Transport: Workstream 2 - Home to School Transport Workstream 3 - HSCP Older Persons and Adults and Social Work Looked After Children Transport Workstream 4 - Communication and Engagement Strategy The combined efforts of these workstreams will improve public transport provision across all of Perth and Kinross, as well as improve overall awareness and promotion of public transport options available to the public. As a result, this will improve usage of public transport, reducing individual car journeys and overall vehicle emissions for the benefit of air quality. Perth and Kinross Community Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan) 2017-2027 Page 108 of 240
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79 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The Perth and Kinross Community Planning Partnership Board (CPP) has the collective statutory duty to reduce inequalities in Perth and Kinross both in geographic areas and within communities of interest through the delivery of the Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP). The strategic priorities of the Community Planning Partnership within the 2017 LOIP are currently being reviewed in light of the changes resulting from COVID-19. The new priorities will focus on six areas: Reducing Poverty, Physical and Mental Wellbeing, Digital Participation, Skills, Learning and Development, and Employability. Climate Change is also considered as part of the LOIP as a cross- cutting priority. The Physical and Mental Wellbeing actions in particular have crossovers with the objectives within this action plan, and include examples such as: 4.1 – Review Active Perth and Kinross Strategy, with a focus on removing barriers for key demographics 4.2 – Develop Perth and Kinross Mobility Strategy, focusing on delivering safe, affordable, active and sustainable travel options 4.3 – Establish Tayside Physician Activity and Green Health Network to develop pathways to support people to be active in their own community Sustrans Perth, People, Place The Perth People Place programme seeks to deliver significant improvements in Sustainable transport and active travel with a strategic fit between active travel and other transport interventions and projects, including; emerging opportunities from the National Transport Strategy, Transport Scotland’s Strategic Transport Projects Review and the Tactran Regional Transport Strategy. This will be achieved by taking a whole-systems place-based approach, considering a re-balance of multiple modes of travel and transport and placing health and sustainability at the heart of decision- making. The Dunkeld Road Corridor is the first project to be developed from the Perth People Place Programme. The Dunkeld Road Corridor is anticipated to be one of several high quality active and sustainable travel areas connecting across multiple communities both within the city of Perth and also serving the wider rural communities. 5.3. Regional Policy and Plans Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership (TACTRAN) Regional Transport Strategy The Regional Transport Strategy (RTS) 2024-203429 is a refresh to the previous 2015-2036 Strategy. The TACTRAN vision is to deliver: ‘a transport system, shaped by engagement with its citizens, which helps deliver prosperity and connects communities across the region and beyond, which is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable and which promotes the health and well-being of all’. 29 Tactran Regional Transport Strategy 2024-2034. Available at: https://tactran.gov.uk/projects/regional-transport-strategy/ Page 109 of 240
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80 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The Strategy recognises that the local authorities Dundee City and Perth and Kinross Councils have produced Air Quality Action Plans to address identified hotspots where the EU Limit Values are being exceeded for both nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulates (PM10). One of the key RTS outcomes is to reduce transport emissions within the Dundee and Perth and Kinross air quality management areas. In addition to the various actions within this action plan which align with the Regional Transport Strategy’s actions, there are a number of RTS actions which will further assist in the reduction of air pollution within Perth City: Action 2: Public sector agencies, will be encouraged to make available, and locate new, services within communities Action 3: Councils will work with Scottish Government and suppliers to promote digital inclusivity across their areas Action 4: All agencies will promote awareness and advantages of sustainable travel Action 5: Councils will utilise demand management measures to promote sustainable travel and reduce the impact of travel on communities Action 6: Tactran and the Councils will work with Transport Scotland to consider a national demand management mechanism (such as road user charging) to reduce car km driven Action 17: Tactran and the Councils will work with operators to improve public transport services Action 19: Tactran and the Councils will work with Transport Scotland and operators to Promote Fair Fares Action 24: Tactran and the Councils will work with Transport Scotland and the rail industry to promote improved rail connectivity TACTRAN Regional EV Strategy The vision of the TACTRAN Regional EV Strategy30 is to be Scotland’s exemplar region for enabling the electrification of transport in the context of a smart, integrated and sustainable mobility system. The Regional EV Strategy Delivery Plan captures delivery, timescale, ownership and progress in relation each of the actions defined within the strategy. Through this strategy, TACTRAN will support electric vehicle uptake, develop charging infrastructure and promote electric mobility to both the public and businesses. Key strategy objectives of relevance to this action plan include: Establish a financially sustainable public charging network scalable to growth in demand and flexible to changes in type of demand Normalise the provision of EV infrastructure and electric mobility services within new or developed property Ensure citizens and businesses of the region are engaged and appropriately educated in regard to the benefits and use of electric mobility Support public health outcomes through improving air quality in the region 30 Tactran Regional EV Strategy. Available at: https://www.tactran.gov.uk/cms- assets/Tactran%20Regional%20EV%20Strategy_FINAL.pdf Page 110 of 240
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81 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL 6 Appendices Appendix A: Development of Air Quality Action Plan A steering group was formed and actively involved in the development of the Action Plan. The members of the steering group are: PKC officers from the following departments: o Environmental Health o Traffic and Network o Climate Change and Sustainable Development o Development Management o Local Development Plan Team o Transport Planning o PKC Fleet o Public Transport o Parking o Community Greenspace o Licensing Sweco: Consultants engaged by PKC to assist the steering group and action planning process Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership (TACTRAN) NHS Tayside The meetings followed the guidance of LAQM TG(16) and the subsequent LAQM TG(22) outlining the key requirements for the development of an effective Action Plan: Undertake appropriate local monitoring and assessment (source apportionment) Decide what levels of actions are required. Establish links with other key policy areas/strategies. Undertake measures selection and impact assessment. Agree monitoring and evaluation of success. Undertake Consultation Finalise Air Quality Action Plan The complete AQAP process undertaken is detailed in Figure 6.1: Page 111 of 240
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82 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 6.1: The complete AQAP Process Page 112 of 240
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83 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Appendix B: AQMA Order Page 113 of 240
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84 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Appendix C: Consultation on the Draft Air Quality Action Plan Following completion of the draft Perth Air Quality Action Plan, a public consultation was carried out as per statutory requirements between 4/11/24 and 31/12/24. Though LAQM guidance recommended 6 weeks as an adequate consultation period, due to the consultation being close to Christmas the consultation was extended to the end of the year to ensure maximum participation. An online survey on PKC’s Consultation Hub website was created for the consultation, comprising of 3 questions: 1. Overall, to what extent do you agree/disagree with the measures to improve air quality set out within the Perth AQAP? 2. If there are any areas within the AQAP which you disagree with or feel need to be changed, please tell us which these are (select all that apply) 3. Do you have any other comments on the overall AQAP? In addition to the online survey, a drop-in session was held at AK Bell Library in Perth on 14/12/24 for any members of the public who wished to discuss the draft plan with an officer in person. Over the course of the consultation period, the survey received 88 responses, along with three formal responses submitted by email to Environmental Health from Scone & District Community Council, Perth & Kinross Branch of Scottish Green Party and Dundee City Council. Feedback was also received on social media through a further 69 comments on posts sharing the consultation. In total across all forms of feedback, 160 responses were received. The majority response to the plan in the online survey was unfortunately negative, with 44% of respondents disagreeing or strongly disagreeing with the plan’s measures in Question 1. 39% agreed or strongly agreed, while 17% neither agreed or disagreed. When asked which categories of measures respondents felt most needed changed in Question 2, the main choices were C. Traffic Measures (46%), E. Reducing demand for traffic (45%), B. Relocate AQMA traffic (40%) and D. Reduce emissions from sources (39%). 20% of respondents agreed with all the measures proposed, while 7% disagreed with all measures. Question 2 also had an open answers section, where 52 of the 88 respondents provided further information on what they felt needed changed. Common topics of feedback were: Traffic light signalling/Atholl St issues LEZ concerns for and against Public transport/P&R provision Impact of AQ measures on Perth Businesses Respondents not believing AQ is an issue in Perth Concerns about domestic burning emissions The survey concluded with Question 3 asking for any further comments on the AQAP overall. 38 of the 88 respondents gave an answer, with the majority of these repeating the main points of their answer to Q2. Page 114 of 240
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85 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Full results from the consultation, including analysis of open answers for Q2 and Q3 can be found on PKC’s Consultation Hub: https://consult.pkc.gov.uk/communities/draft-perth-aqap Response to Consultation In response to the consultation results, we have reviewed several measures which saw particular public focus and have amended these where required to take into account the received feedback: C.1 Continued Improvement of UTMC System – The most frequent area of feedback received from the consultation was about traffic signals within the city centre and the congestion they cause. These responses were reviewed by the PKC Traffic & Network team and the measure was amended to address the feedback. Changes to the measure were: increased description of upcoming plans to improve traffic signals within the city, added description on signage works to redirect traffic away from congested areas D.9 Domestic Burning – One area of frequent feedback within the consultation was the absence of any measures within the AQAP focusing on particulate matter emissions from domestic solid fuel burning. While PM concentrations within Perth are below objectives, PKC’s PM monitoring network is less extensive than it is for NO2, leading to less certainty. Furthermore, the cumulative effect of increasing domestic woodburning stoves within Perth on PM levels is currently unknown and difficult to quantify, and will likely impact residents more acutely due to the close proximity of sources to residential properties. In response to this, a new measure for Domestic Burning was added to the suite of AQAP measures. B.3 Encourage Low-Car Development – Consultation feedback on this measure indicated that some clarification was needed regarding where low-car development measures would likely be implemented. Additional information was added to the description for better understanding of the measure One further piece of feedback unrelated to any specific action plan measure was that the draft action plan was too large and complicated for the average member of the public to read. The recommendation from the consultee was that a short version or summary AQAP should be available for better accessibility, and this is something that will be actioned following completion of the final AQAP. Detailed feedback was provided from each of the three formal responses received by email to Environmental Health. Feedback ranged from highlighting inconsistencies between time periods shown in monitoring trend figures, raising the lack of measures focused on domestic burning emissions and other smaller points throughout the document. All feedback was reviewed and changes within the draft AQAP were made where required. Whilst amending the AQAP, we continued collaborative working across the Council and external stakeholders to ensure that the actions are acceptable internally and externally as well as being deliverable. For example, we have been in discussion with colleagues in Public Transport, Traffic & Network, Transport Scotland etc. as well as more formal collaborative working through the Steering Group. Page 115 of 240
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86 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Appendix D: Conclusions of LAQM Review and Assessments Summary of Previous LAQM Review and Assessment in Perth A. 2004 Detailed Assessment A Detailed Assessment, completed in 2004 for PKC, found that it was likely that the annual mean NO2 objective for 2005 would be exceeded and the PM10 objectives for 2010 would be exceeded in areas where personal relevant exposure occurs. The report concluded that PKC needed to declare an AQMA to cover the area of exceedance in the Atholl Street/Barrack Street Junction and possibly other areas of Perth City. Subsequently the whole of the city of Perth was declared an AQMA for NO2 and PM10. B. 2006 Updating and Screening Assessment An Updating and Screening Assessment for PKC was completed in 2006. At this stage monitoring data and modelling indicated a number of exceedances of the annual mean objective for NO2 at busy junctions in Perth and no exceedances of the 2004 objectives for PM10 in the PKC area. Projections to 2010 indicated that the annual mean objective for PM10 was unlikely to be met at a number of locations close to junctions in central Perth. All predicted and measured exceedances were inside the existing AQMA. The report concluded that PKC was not required to carry out a Detailed Assessment for carbon monoxide, benzene, 1,3-butadiene, lead, sulphur dioxide, NO2 and PM 10 (both NO2 and PM10 had already been the subject of a Detailed Assessment and would be looked at in the coming Further Assessment). C. 2007 Further Assessment Following the declaration of the Perth AQMA, PKC were obliged to complete a Further Assessment of air quality for Perth. The objective of the Further Assessment was to confirm the conclusions of the Detailed Assessment and to test city centre traffic management scenarios to assess the likely impact they may have on pollutant concentrations in future years and their likely effectiveness - these scenarios included the creation of the Cross Tay Link Road (CTLR) and the City Centre Traffic Management Review (CCTMR) approved in 2006. This report investigated current and potential future NO2 and PM10 levels through an examination of the location and size of principal traffic emission sources, emissions modelling exercises and by reference to monitored air quality data. The report also included an assessment of source apportionment, which is the process whereby the contributions from different sources of a pollutant are determined. Source apportionment allows the most important source or sources to be identified and options to reduce ambient concentrations of pollutants can then be considered and assessed. Page 116 of 240
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87 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The outcomes of the 2007 source apportionment suggested a number of key areas to focus efforts to reduce NO2 and PM10 concentrations: Reduce the amount of time that traffic is stationary within Perth City Centre to reduce NO2 Reduce the impact of heavy duty vehicles (HDV’s) including buses coaches and HGVs to reduce both NO2 and PM10 Reduce the background concentration of PM10 via renewed efforts at the national and international scale as well as the whole PKC area Key conclusions regarding the city centre traffic management scenarios were that both the CTLR and the CCTMR would lead to positive improvement to NO2 and PM10 concentrations, but that they were not predicted to remove all risk of exceedances of the air quality objectives at the time, due to more stringent objectives being introduced in 2010 and the remaining high volume of traffic on Perth’s roads. The Further Assessment recommended that PKC retain their city wide AQMA for both NO2 and PM10, and proceed with preparation of an action plan to reduce concentrations. Further information on all of these assessments can be found on the PKC website : https://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/15307/Air-quality-reports Page 117 of 240
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88 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Appendix E: Perth Dispersion Modelling Methodology Introduction The most up-to-date version of the Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling System ADMS-Roads Extra (ADMS 5.0.0.1), was used for the assessment of road traffic emissions. This modelling software has been developed by Cambridge Environmental Research Consultants Ltd (CERC) and is a software which models air pollution using road traffic as a source of pollutant emissions. Model domain The mapping data used within the assessment is OS OpenDataTM31 and Perth Mastermap data. The air quality model domain spans the entire Perth AQMA, and also includes major spine roads into the AQMA. The model domain is presented in Figure 6.2. Figure 6.2: Air quality Model Domain 31 https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/opendatadownload/products.html Page 118 of 240
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89 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Modelling parameters Meteorological data ADMS-Roads uses hourly sequential meteorological data to calculate atmospheric dispersion. The meteorological data file contains a number of parameters including wind speed and direction, cloud cover and solar heat flux. The nearest site which records all required parameters is at Strathallan Airfield located south west of Perth. Hourly sequential meteorological data for 2019 were used for the air quality modelling assessment. The wind rose for 2021 is presented in Figure 6.3 Figure 6.3: 2019 wind Rose Perth Strathallan Surface roughness and Monin-Obukhov length A surface roughness of 1m was used to represent the dispersion site, this is representative of cities and woodlands. At the meteorological site, a surface roughness of 0.0344m was used to represent the Strathallan Perth metrological site. The Monin-Obukhov length is a parameter used to measure the stability of the atmosphere. It describes the turbulence length which is dependent on the meteorological conditions. For very stable conditions, in rural areas, a typical value can range between 2m to 20m. In large urban areas, an urban heat island effect can occur as result of the buildings and traffic warming the air above the Page 119 of 240
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90 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL town/city. This can prevent the atmosphere ever becoming stable. A minimum Monin-Obukhov length will vary depending on how large the area is. A minimum Monin-Obukhov length of 30m was set for the dispersion area, which was representative of cities and large towns. Terrain A gradient of greater than 1:10 can impact dispersion. Following a review of the study area, terrain was not required to be considered within the assessment, therefore no terrain file was included in the model. Street canyon ADMS-Roads does not allow buildings to be included explicitly but allows various street parameters to be input to simulate the local flow around buildings and other obstacles in the vicinity of the road. The street parameters included in the model are road width, street canyon height and road elevation. Street canyons can be included in the model for roads where there are high rise buildings on either side which act as barriers to the air flow and can channel wind along the road or cause localised air circulations that trap pollutants at street level. Canyon effects are significant for streets where the height of the buildings is at least equivalent or greater than the width of the street. The advanced street canyon module is an automated module within ADMS roads which requires multiple layers of mapping data include street layout, building height and the road centreline, Mastermap Road centreline and buildings Mastermap shapefile. This module will then use these data to create an additional model input file. This module is most appropriate when modelling large domains. The geometry of the model domain was reviewed using a combination of GIS mapping data and Google Earth to identify street canyons. Due to the extent of the model domain and the presence of street canyons – particularly within Perth city centre, street canyons were explicitly modelled using the advanced street canyon module. Figure 6.4: Advanced Street Canyon Module Road traffic emissions Page 120 of 240
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91 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The traffic data used in the assessment was taken from a traffic model produced by the transport consultants at Systra Ltd. The transport consultants provided an Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) flow for the baseline year of 2019. The traffic data also included average speed data per modelled road link along with a vehicle fleet composition of cars, light goods vehicles (LGV), heavy goods vehicles (rigid and artic) and buses. Vehicle emission factors The Emissions Factors Toolkit (EFT V10.1 August 2020 release) was used in the modelling assessment to calculate pollutant emission factors for each modelled road link. This was the most recent EFT available at the time of the assessment. Emissions were calculated using the built-in EFT (EFT v10.1) in the latest version of ADMS Roads. This version of the model allows for traffic induced turbulence to be calculated when the model calculates the emissions based on the numbers of vehicles, speed and the types of vehicle on each road link modelled explicitly. Treatment of modelled NOx road contribution It is necessary to convert the modelled road NOx concentrations to NO2 for comparison with the relevant objectives and to perform model verification. The Defra NOx/NO2 calculator (v8.1) was used to calculate NO2 concentrations from the road NOx concentrations predicted by ADMS-Roads. The model requires input of the background NOx, the modelled road contribution, and accounts for the proportion of NOx released as primary NO2. The modelling assessment scenario was set to 2019 and the local authority to Perth and Kinross with the “All Other Urban UK Traffic” option in the model. The NOx/NO2 model estimates that 28.96% of NOx is released as primary NO2. Validation of ADMS-Roads Extra CERC models are continually validated against available measured data obtained from real world situations, filed campaigns and wind tunnel experiments. Validation of the ADMS dispersions models have been performed using many experimental datasets that test different aspects of the models. Full details of the latest validation can be found at:http://www.cerc.co.uk/environmental-software/model- validation.html. Source Apportionment As part of the air quality dispersion modelling assessment, source apportionment was undertaken to quantify the contributions of different pollutant sources to ambient concentrations. This aims to allow the Local Authority’s Action Plan to target specific sources when attempting to reduce pollutant concentrations within the AQMA. Tailpipe emissions are predominantly NOx which is converted to NO2 through chemical reactions, therefore emissions of NOx are analysed. The source apportionment for the Perth and Kinross assessment determined the following: 1. Whether any exceedances of the NO 2 and PM10 objective are due to road traffic 2. The extent to which different vehicle types are responsible for the NOx/PM10 emissions contributions Page 121 of 240
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92 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The source apportionment analysis showed the highest contributor of NOx, PM10 and PM2.5 emissions on each road based on the traffic model for the most part was cars and followed by buses/coaches, as shown in Figure 6.5. Figure 6.5: NOx Perth Source Apportionment Analysis A further detailed breakdown of the source apportionment analysis was undertaken within the Perth city centre area to identify the different vehicles contributing to NOx emissions. The analysis showed whilst cars were the highest vehicle contributor to emissions out with the city centre area, buses/coaches are also contributing a significant proportion of NOx emissions particularly on South Street, Mill Street, South Methven Street and York Place (Figure 6.6). Page 122 of 240
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93 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 6.6: Source apportionment – Perth City Centre Link Analysis Model Verification Model verification is the comparison of modelled results with available local monitoring data. This identifies how well the model is performing. LAQM.TG (16) recommends making the adjustment to the road contribution of the pollutant only. Prior to applying a model adjustment value, all model inputs have been reviewed and the model refined, where possible. The model is refined as part of the verification process to reduce uncertainties within the modelling. NO2 verification Verification is the process of comparing modelled results with the available local monitoring data. This identifies how accurate the modelled results are in comparison to monitored results and provides a clearer indication on how well the model is preforming. The process includes checking and refining model input data to better align modelled results with monitored results. Modelled results can be adjusted in accordance with LAQM TG(16) guidance. A number of statistical procedures outlined in LAQM TG(16) can be used to evaluate model performance and identify any uncertainties, dependant on the numbers of verification points and study information. Page 123 of 240
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94 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL The statistical parameters which can be used to estimate whether the modelled results agree or deviate from observations. can be found in Table 6.1, taken from LAQM TG(16) box A7.17. Table 6.1: Model performance statistics Statistical Parameter Description Ideal Value Correlation Coefficient Measures the linear relationship between the predicted and observed data. A value of zero means there is no relationship and a value of 1 means an absolute relationship exists. This statistic is useful when a large number of model and observed data points are being compared. 1.00 Fractional Bias Identifies if the model shows a systematic tendency to over or under predict. Fractional bias values vary between +2 and -2, with an ideal value of zero. Negative values suggest the model is over-predicting and positive values suggest the model is under-predicting. 0.0 Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) Defines the average error or uncertainty of the model. The units of RMSE are the same as the quantities being compared. 0.0 These parameters are used to draw a comparison between the observations against the predictions from a given model in order for performance and uncertainty to be evaluated. There are a total of 56 monitoring locations in 2019 where model performance could be assessed. These locations are located throughout the Perth AQMA. As part of the model verification process each monitoring location was reviewed for suitability. Monitoring sites which are at kerbside locations or located at complex junctions were discounted in accordance with LAQM TG(16) which has stated that kerbside locations are unsuitable for model verification. This review resulted in 38 monitoring locations being suitable for verification. The advanced street canyon module was ran through the model to best represent the surrounding geometry of the monitoring locations. The initial comparison of the modelled vs measured NO2 is shown in Figure 6.7, with all of the monitoring locations included. The modelled road NOx would require an adjustment factor of 0.9942 and had an RMSE of 7.08 µg/m3. A review of this model run showed a large number of sites falling out with the limits of acceptability. The sites not suitable for inclusion due to them being kerbside locations and located at complex junctions were removed with the aim to improve the verification process. Page 124 of 240
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95 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 6.7: Modelled vs measured NO2 at all monitoring locations Following the removal of unsuitable monitoring locations, the verification was updated producing an adjustment factor of 1.0089 and RMSE of 6.48 µg/m3. The removal of unsuitable monitoring locations resulted in an improvement of the RMSE indicating an overall improvement in the model. A comparison of the pre and post-adjusted modelled NO2 is shown in Figure 6.8. Page 125 of 240
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96 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Figure 6.8: Modelled vs measured NO2 Details of the post adjusted modelled results are provided in Table 6.2. Table 6.2: Post adjustment results Measuring Location Measured µg/m3 Modelled µg/m3 P98 18 12.4 P111 24 15.3 P112 19 14.9 P104 26 28.7 P110 23 17.9 P107 25 21.6 P62 23 26.7 P63 30 22.7 P7 14 12.1 P20 23 24.8 P36 26 17.7 P37 22 19.0 P103 35 23.4 Page 126 of 240
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97 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Measuring Location Measured µg/m3 Modelled µg/m3 P116 26 14.8 Perth 2 36 41.4 P1 33 23.8 P13 26 23.2 P29 28 19.0 P30 29 19.7 P31 22 20.8 P33 32 29.1 P34 37 34.6 P35 20 20.5 P39 32 33.7 P40 32 45.0 P41 31 24.2 P43 38 36.9 P61 36 41.4 P64 36 36.1 P67 28 34.0 P79 30 41.1 P89 29 21.0 P90 25 19.0 P97 27 21.0 P109 25 18.5 P47 19 19.3 P72 28 16.8 P102 21 19.5 The model does appear to be underpredicting at a few monitoring locations and is out with the 25% model performance target set by LAQM TG(16). This underprediction is likely due to the additional emissions associated with queuing traffic which was not included in the traffic model and therefore air quality model. The model performance at the remaining sites showed some over prediction however still within the model performance target set by LAQM TG(16) – demonstrating there is no systematic error in the model. Page 127 of 240
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98 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL All modelling inputs were reviewed. No further adjustments could be made to traffic flow data as the air quality modelling is based on the outputs from the traffic model used within the assessment. Verifying modelling data with diffusion tube data will always be subject to uncertainty due to the limitations in diffusion tube monitoring data, even automatic data has some uncertainties. The model results should be considered in this context. The results of this initial comparison of the modelled vs measured indicates that the model is performing within LAQM TG(16)’s target 25% and the error in the model (RMSE) is also within 10%. Therefore, no model adjustment was required, and the results presented are worst case. Page 128 of 240
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99 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Appendix F: Evaluation of Action Plan Measures Potential Air Quality Benefit This is a key assessment in that the AQAP must focus on prioritising measures which will improve air quality most effectively. The assessment is complex in that the detailed assessment of any given measure could normally be subject to a study of its own requiring significant resources. A qualitative assessment relying on a level of judgement has been adopted. The method used is outlined below: The description of the measure and the proposed change to be brought about by the it is used alongside the source apportionment analysis. This identifies what proportion of the source’s pollutant emissions would potentially be affected by the measure. A view is then taken on how much of the emissions source would actually be reduced and in turn what level of reduction in air quality could be achieved by the measure. For the purpose of the assessment of potential air quality benefit each measure has been assessed using the following classifications: Zero local AQ benefit if the realistic intervention is 0% or worse Small local AQ benefit if the realistic intervention is 1% Medium local AQ benefit if the realistic intervention is 2-5% Large local AQ benefit if the realistic intervention is >5%. Implementation Costs The potential implementation costs of each option are assessed as follows: Cost neutral (measure already implemented through existing plans/ programmes) Low costs (up to £20k annually e.g. for small surveys or campaigns or other options using current resources) Medium costs (up to £60k annually e.g. for a full-time officer plus resources) High costs (up to £200k annually e.g. for small traffic management schemes) Very high costs (above £200k annually e.g. for new infrastructure) These cost bandings may be subject to revision. Page 129 of 240
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100 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Cost effectiveness The effectiveness of each measure in improving air quality is compared to the implementation costs in the following matrix. AQ benefit Cost Score Zero Small Medium Large Score 0 1 2 3 Neutral 5 0 5 10 15 Low 4 0 4 8 12 Medium 3 0 3 6 9 High 2 0 2 4 6 Very High 1 0 1 2 3 The assessed implementation costs and potential air quality impacts have been given a weighted score. The product of the weighted scores for each option is calculated. The results can be interpreted as follows: If the product is high (10 or more) then the measure is more cost-effective (significant impacts for the cost involved) and perhaps favourably cost-effective If the product is medium (between 5-9) then the measure is in the medium range of cost- effectiveness If the product is low (4 or less) then the measure is less cost-effective (small impacts for the cost involved) and perhaps unacceptably poor in cost-effectiveness terms. This method only estimates the relative cost-effectiveness of options rather than their absolute values. The method is useful during discussions of the relative priority of different options. The final cost- effectiveness value is sensitive to changes in the assumptions of how effective a measure might be in reducing emissions and how costly it is. Potential Co-Environmental Benefits In this assessment other environmental benefits are highlighted. Carbon reduction .Climate change: The likely effect on carbon emissions is assessed as being an overall reduction or a local reduction perhaps with emissions being relocated elsewhere. Noise. Without detailed information on the true impacts of the options these assessments rely on judgement. Potential Social Impacts Potential social impacts are highlighted. These may need to be examined more closely when developing the options further. At this stage it is simply highlighted whether or not it is likely that the option would potentially: Provide health benefits in terms of lower exposure to pollutants or increased mobility Increase road safety Page 130 of 240
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101 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Improve accessibility Without detailed information on the true impacts of the options these assessments rely on judgement. Potential Economic Impacts Potential economic impacts are highlighted. These may need to be examined more closely when developing the options further. At this stage it is simply highlighted whether or not it is likely that the option would potentially: Influence sustainable development or accessibility in Perth Reduce or increase overall travel time Place additional requirements on operators. Feasibility and Acceptability Each option has been assessed for its feasibility against three simple criteria. These are whether the authority has: The executive powers under existing legislation to implement and enforce a measure. Alternatively, whether the authority has an existing mechanism to influence other agencies to implement a measure. Secured funding for the measure or a straightforward route for securing funding. Characterised the potential positive and negative impacts of the measure with sufficient evidence or confidence to make a decision to implement the measure. Table 6.3 below sets out the criteria adopted for defining the option as being feasible over the short, medium or long term, or as being unfeasible. Each option is assessed against each criterion. The final feasibility timeframe is defined according to which of the three assessments results in the longest of the four possible terms (short, medium, long or unfeasible). For example, an option for which powers are clear and for which impacts are well characterised but for which funding will be difficult to obtain would be assessed as feasible over the long term. Table 6.3: Criteria for Feasibility Analysis Criteria for feasibility analysis Feasible in the: Authority has the powers Funding secured Potential positive and negative impacts are well characterised Short term (1-2 years) Yes, clearly defined and already exercised Yes potentially straightforward Yes Medium term (3-6 years) Yes but novel or with an element of uncertainty Yes with forward planning Not without further study Long term (>6 years) Highly uncertain No or extremely difficult Not without further study Unfeasible No Will never attract funding Hard to characterise and with high risks Page 131 of 240
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102 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL Appendix G: Glossary of Terms Abbreviation Description AQ Air Quality AQAP Air Quality Action Plan - A detailed description of measures, outcomes, achievement dates and implementation methods, showing how the local authority intends to achieve air quality objectives AQMA Air Quality Management Area – An area where air pollutant concentrations exceed / are likely to exceed the relevant air quality objectives. AQMAs are declared for specific pollutants and objectives APR Air quality Annual Progress Report AADT Average Annual Daily Traffic ANPR Automatic Number Plate Recognition AQS Air Quality Strategy CAFS Cleaner Air for Scotland CO2 Carbon Dioxide COMEAP Committee On the Medical Effects of Air Pollution CTLR Cross Tay Link Road Defra Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs EH Environmental Health EFT Emissions Factor Toolkit EU European Union EV Electric Vehicle HGV Heavy Goods Vehicle LAQM Local Air Quality Management LOIP Local Outcomes Improvement Plan LDP Local Development Plan LEZ Low Emission Zone MaaS Mobility as a Service MPG Miles Per Gallon Page 132 of 240
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103 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL NLEF National Low Emissions Framework NO2 Nitrogen Dioxide NOx Nitrogen Oxides (NO and NO2) OS Ordinance Survey PKC Perth and Kinross Council PM10 Particulate matter with a diameter of 10µm (micrometres or microns) or less PM2.5 Particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5µm (micrometres or microns) or less PTU Public Transport Unit RMSE Root Mean Square Error RTPI Real Time Passenger Information RTM Real Time Monitor RTS Regional Transport Strategy SEPA Scottish Environmental Protection Agency SG Scottish Government TACTRAN Tayside and Central Scotland Transport Partnership TRL Transport Research Laboratory ULEZ Ultra Low Emission Vehicles UTMC Urban Traffic Management Control WHO World Health Organisation Page 133 of 240
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104 of 104 Perth Air Quality Action Plan, Perth and Kinross Council PKC - GENERAL If you or someone you know would like a copy of this document in another language or format, (on occasion, only a summary of the document will be provided in translation), this can be arranged by contacting the Customer Service Centre on 01738 475000. You can also send us a text message on 07824 498145. All Council Services can offer a telephone translation facility. BSL users can contact us via Contact Scotland BSL, the online British Sign Language video relay interpreting service. Find out more on the Contact Scotland BSL website https://contactscotland-bsl.org Page 134 of 240
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Climate Change & Sustainability Date of Meeting: 20 August 2025 Report Title: Waste Management Plan update and Draft Circular Economy Strategy Consultation Document Report Number: 25/208 Report Author: Pete Leonard, Climate Change & Zero Waste Manager Organisational Lead: Fraser Crofts, Strategic Lead - Environment and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this Report is to provide members of the Climate Change & Sustainability Committee with a final update on the Council’s Waste Management Plan 2010-2025 and to table a draft Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan consultation document for review and approval. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendation(s) 3. Background/Context 4. Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact Value Assessment 8. Appendices 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Notes the update on the Council’s Waste Management Plan 2010-2025, and that, as the plan comes to an end this year, this will be the final update. 2.2 Approves the draft Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan consultation document (at Appendix 1). 8 Page 137 of 240
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2.3 Notes that, following a period of public consultation in the autumn, a final Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan will be brought back to the Committee in early 2026. 3. Background/Context 3.1 In November 2010, the Environment Committee approved a new Perth and Kinross Waste Management Plan 2010-2025 (Report No 10/597) The aim of the Waste Management Plan was to map out a way to achieve national recycling and composting rates at a local level, control waste arisings and waste growth, develop partnership agreements for managing waste and ensure best value for waste management in Perth and Kinross. 3.2 The plan set a 70% recycling/composting rate to be achieved by 2025 as follows. 2013 – 50% 2020 – 60% 2025 – 70% 3.3 The target was predicated on assumptions that by 2025, no more than 5% of waste would be landfilled, anticipating that there would be a landfill ban for specific waste and restrictions on the input to all energy from waste facilities 3.4 The main elements of the plan were: A commitment to optimise the amount of waste segregated at source through separate kerbside collections and development of recycling centres and points. Implementation of waste awareness campaigns and initiatives which aim to encourage waste prevention and increase participation in recycling and composting schemes. The plan put priority on waste prevention, recycling and composting in line with the Waste Hierarchy at the time and provided clear strategic direction for the following 15 years. An action plan was developed, and progress was reported to Committee on an annual basis (apart from the time around the global pandemic). 3.5 The most recent Waste Management Plan update was presented to the Environment, Infrastructure and Economic Development Committee on 29 March 2023 (report No. 23/106). The key updates since then are set out under the Main Issues section of this report. 4. Main Issues Waste Management Plan 2010-2025 – final update 4.1 Introduction of twin stream recycling service Page 138 of 240
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4.2 Following the successful securing of £2.72m of capital investment from the Scottish Government Recycling Improvement Fund (RIF), in 2022 the Council moved from a co-mingled kerbside recycling service to a new twin stream collection in 2 phases; the first being Perth city centre recycling hubs and the second being the delivery of an improved kerbside recycling service for householders and businesses by introducing a 4th bin. In Autumn/winter 2023 the new twin stream kerbside recycling service was successfully delivered to circa 71,000 households in PKC. This included 71,000 new individual 240 litre wheelie bins and 1350 special containers for communal collection points. 4.3 The new service split the traditional Dry Mixed Recycling collection into a twin stream model; the existing blue lidded bin would hold paper and card only the new grey lidded bin would hold plastic bottles, tubs and trays, flexible plastic film, can tins and foils and cartons (Tetrapaks) 4.4 The changes created an easier/clearer service for the public and as a result we have seen recycling rates improve from 49.3% to 51.7%. There has also been a reduction in contamination, with levels for blue and grey lidded bins at 2.36% and 11.63% respectively, compared to a contamination rate of 21.78% for October 2023, the last month of the mixed DMR contract. We have also seen an increase in income from recyclable materials, especially for paper and card. Residual waste procurement 4.5 The Council required a long-term solution for residual waste in order to comply with the ban of municipal biodegradable waste to landfill due to come into force from 1st January 2026. Following a procurement process, a contract notice was published in January 2023 and a contract with Paprec Energies – Binn commenced on 1st August 2023. This is a 10-year contract with the option to extend by a further 5 years, which has an emphasis on diverting waste from landfill, and which places the requirement on the contractor to comply with the ban on biodegradable household waste going to landfill from midnight on 31 December 2025. Food waste action plan 4.6 Work is ongoing to develop a Food Waste Action Plan, however the approach is cautious due to the outstanding uncertainty from the Scottish Government with regards to whether they will enforce separate food and garden waste collections and if the current rural collection will remain exempt. Until such time, mini projects have been underway, these include, food waste hub roll outs, which included Perth City Centre, Blairgowrie, Crieff & Auchterarder which have increased access to food recycling for 182 households. Along with this, a food waste campaign is planned to run throughout the Summer/Autumn of 2025. Page 139 of 240
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Asset management review 4.7 The Council’s waste-related property assets are aging, and their condition and suitability do not meet the needs of a modern waste and recycling service. An asset management review has been commissioned to provide an initial high- level assessment of the Councils operational infrastructure and to objectively evaluate the impact on collection services of various options for depot rationalisation. This will provide an understanding of the number of collection resources relating to crews and vehicles that will be required to complete collections across Perth & Kinross. The output of this work will be considered as part of a detailed depot & waste transfer station feasibility assessment workstream, which will be used to inform the Council’s overall asset management approach as part of the Investment Blueprint and Investment Plan. National Deposit Return Scheme 4.8 The Deposit Return for Scotland (DRS) was approved by the Scottish Parliament on May 13, 2020. The intention was to roll out the scheme where a 20p deposit would be placed on all single use beverage containers made of PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) plastic, cans and glass and refunded when returned for recycling. The return to retail model would see all retailers who sell drinks being required to accept returned containers over the counter, through reverse-vending machines or through take-back schemes. The commencement date was to be 16 August 2023; however, it was announced in June 2023 that the scheme was being delayed until at least March 2024 (now revised to October 2027) to allow alignment with schemes in England and Northern Ireland. It has also been announced that glass will no longer be included. Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (pEPR) 4.9 New Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility was formally launched on 21 January 2025 and shifts the cost of managing household packaging waste from Local Authorities to those businesses who use and supply packaging, applying the ‘polluter pay’s’ principle. PackUK was appointed as the scheme administrator and is responsible for setting pEPR fees for obligated producers and then in turn manage the payments to local authorities. These payments then allow authorities to shape and deliver efficient and effective collection and recycling services. 4.10 In December 2024, DEFRA wrote to the Council setting out an estimated allocation of £4.975 million for 2025-26. At the budget meeting of 26 February, Council agreed to utilise this funding as follows: £1.67m to address existing pressures arising from loan charges for the waste fleet vehicle replacement programme £1.008m as an earmarked reserve to fund investment in waste/recycling initiatives Page 140 of 240
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The balance of £2.8m to be retained as a contingency, pending confirmation of government funding towards increased employers’ national insurance contributions. 4.11 In July 2025, correspondence from PackUK set out a revised allocation of £3.795m, therefore the allocation of this will require to be amended. However, an element of non-recurring funding is still available to support improvement projects over the next 2 years. 4.12 The Zero Waste and Operations teams have developed a list of projects and activities that it is hoped will lead to greater materials recovery and improved recycling, together with creating more operational efficiencies. Some examples include: Road End Improvements; to provide better recycling and waste disposal facilities for residents who are not on an individual, kerb side wheeled bin collection service and therefore may not have access to recycling. This work also addresses H&S concerns (manual handling) for refuse collection crews Additional city centre recycling and food waste hubs, including a ‘super hub’ to provide increased recycling facilities for people who don’t have access to a car Additional collection frequencies in places where bin capacity is insufficient to meet demand, which will reduce contamination levels and capture more recyclable material Behavioural campaigns and local media campaigns to raise awareness of issues such as waste minimisation, reuse, food waste reduction/recycling, textiles etc. Devising and running a 'Re-use Community Fund' whereby reuse networks and community groups could bid for funding to support reuse projects Improved use of digital technology and AI to improve business insights and customer service, including the provision of in-cab technology to more vehicles Provision of equipment at household recycling centres such as roller packers and compactors, which will increase the capacity of containers and result in fewer vehicle journeys Single use Vapes 4.13 In England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland on 1 June 2025, the sale and supply of single-use vapes (also known as disposable vapes) is banned. These items are an inefficient use of critical resources and are often discarded as litter or thrown into residual (non-recycled) waste. They introduce harmful substances into the soil, rivers and streams, and cause harm to biodiversity. Page 141 of 240
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4.14 When single-use vapes are thrown into bins they often end up in landfill or are incinerated, which means critical resources are lost. They can also cause fires, which risks the safety of waste management workers, firefighters and the public. Single-use disposable beverage cups 4.15 It is estimated that in Scotland 388.4 million single-use (disposable) cups are used every year which equates to over 70 cups per person, per year. While many cups are recyclable, many are sent to landfill or even littered. 4.16 The Circular Economy (Scotland) Bill, gave Scottish Ministers new powers to introduce a minimum charge on single-use disposable beverage cups, much like the legislation introduced for plastic carrier bags in 2010. A commitment has been made to introduce a charge on single-use disposable beverage cups by the end of 2025 and a consultation ran from 22nd August – 14 November 2024 which proposed the introduction of a 25p charge on disposable cups. However, at the time of writing the results of the consultation had not yet been published. Recycling in Schools project 4.17 Perth and Kinross schools are currently spending more than £450,000 on all waste and recycling disposal per annum. 89% of the cost is for general waste disposal and only 11% is for recycling. A business case for investment in new waste and recycling containers was approved in 2024. The project is being led by a dedicated Waste Minimisation Officer who is working closely with colleagues in education, facilities management, Tayside Contracts and Mitie contractors. 4.18 The aim of this project is to ensure that all primary (71) and secondary schools (11) in Perth and Kinross will have appropriate internal and external recycling bins for paper and cardboard (blue); plastics, cans and cartons (grey) and food waste (brown); and that these are then utilised correctly by staff and pupils. 4.19 By achieving this we will: Reduce Council finances being spent on waste disposal Improve recycling Help meet the aims of the Council’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan Meet the obligations of the Scottish Government’s Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012 Mirror the household recycling system, to encourage positive behaviour change at school and at home Enable our young people to lead by example, by engaging them in the project via STEM related activities such as design, measurement, financial and carbon impact assessment Page 142 of 240
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This will be a priority project to May 2027, when the measure of the impact of the work against the baseline information undertaken in 2024 will commence. Transitioning to a circular economy approach 4.20 The implementation of the waste management plan has seen the successful introduction of many of the planned improvements in service and associated waste and recycling infrastructure. 4.21 This has resulted in improved recycling and reduced levels of non-recycled waste. The recycling rate has risen from 42% in 2009/10, to 51.7% in 2023. The Scottish average for 2023 was 43.5%, with PKC placed 9th best from 32 local authorities. 4.22 Other improvements over the same period include: A reduction in the average weekly waste collected per person, from 10.4kg to 5.8kg A reduction in total annual waste to landfill from 54,208 tonnes to 23,178 tonnes Emissions from waste have fallen from 209,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2011/12 to 135,557 TCO2e in 2023. 4.23 However, as with the national picture, recycling rates have stagnated over recent years, and the national target of recycling 70% of waste by 2025 has not been met. In part, this is due to delays in implementing national policy initiatives such as the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) and Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR). 4.24 Variable levels of public engagement with waste services are also a cause for concern. Whilst there has generally been a good response to the twin-stream recycling service that was rolled out across Perth and Kinross in 2023-24, there are households who do not use the system correctly. Also, in the urban and semi-urban localities where we provide a kerbside food recycling service, recycling rates remain stubbornly low, even though there is ample container provision. 4.25 With the waste management plan due to expire at the end of 2025, and in recognition of the national focus on the circular economy, the opportunity has been taken to incorporate and include the functions of the waste management plan within the scope of a wider circular economy strategy for Perth and Kinross. This will ensure that the Council is aligned to legislation and government policy and will provide a fresh impetus for further service improvement, including the provision of new services and a greater emphasis on public engagement and behaviour change. 5. Proposals 5.1 Appendix 1 sets out a draft Perth and Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy and accompanying 5-year Action Plan (2026-2031). Page 143 of 240
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5.2 The circular economy is an approach that aims to reduce waste and keep products and materials in use for as long as possible. It focuses on designing out waste and pollution, reusing and recycling materials, and helping nature recover. This approach not only helps the environment but also boosts the economy and promotes fairness for everyone 5.3 Our draft strategy is driven by the Scottish Government’s vision to ‘deliver a fully circular economy in Scotland by 2045, driven by responsible consumption, responsible production, and maximising value from waste and energy’. 5.4 It also aligns with other national strategies together with the Council’s vision - ‘where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality,’ and its strategic priorities of: Working in partnership with communities Tackling poverty Tackling climate change and supporting sustainable places Developing a resilient, stronger and greener local economy Enabling our children and young people to achieve their full potential Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing 5.5 Our proposed vision for the circular economy is: 5.6 In order to develop a strategy to deliver this vision, a circular economy working group was established in February 2025 with members from across key Council Services. The focus of the group is to develop and set the strategic direction and priorities, provide baseline information to establish the Council’s current position in relation to these priorities, set key objectives for each theme and develop future actions, and prepare the consultation and final strategy and action plan. 5.7 The Working Group identified that there was benefit in aligning the strategic priorities of the Perth and Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy with those adopted in Scotland's Circular Economy and Waste Routemap to 2030. The objectives set out in the routemap have been reviewed and modified to be appropriate to the Perth and Kinross context and associated levers of Council influence. The background information used in selecting and forming these objectives is presented in the draft strategy document in Appendix 1. "In Perth and Kinross, we aim to build communities where everyone understands how to use resources responsibly and reduce waste. We take pride in making thoughtful choices that support the environment and improve our quality of life, by protecting nature, growing the economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities. Together, we are working toward a greener and more sustainable future.” Page 144 of 240
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5.8 The proposed strategic priorities and delivery areas are: Strategic Priority 1 - Reduce and reuse Objective 1.1 Work with our residents and businesses to change patterns of production, consumption and disposal Objective 1.2 Improve circularity of the Tayside Food System to promote local, healthy eating and reduce food waste and food poverty Objective 1.3 Reduce textile waste Objective 1.4 Ensure Council services, including schools, model best practice to lead by example Strategic Priority 2 - Modernise recycling Objective 2.1 Modernise household recycling and reuse services to maximise performance and meet evolving needs Objective 2.2 Support businesses and commercial premises to reduce waste and maximise recycling Strategic Priority 3 - Decarbonise disposal Objective 3.1 Understand the best environmental outcomes for specific wastes Objective 3.2 Ensure there is an appropriate capacity to manage waste Objective 3.3 Improve environmental outcomes for waste through innovation Objective 3.4 Support the incentivisation of decarbonising waste Strategic Priority 4 - Strengthening the circular economy Objective 4.1 Set the strategic direction and act as a regional catalyst for change Objective 4.2 Grow the enabling environment to support and attract circular businesses Objective 4.3 Encourage circular construction practices Objective 4.4 Coordinate action across cross-cutting areas and robustly monitor, evaluate and report progress 5.9 The views of residents, local communities, businesses and stakeholders are crucial in ensuring that our strategy truly reflects the issues faced by local people and includes the correct priorities and actions to address these issues. So, before the final strategy is developed, we want to make sure that they have their say. To do this, we propose to carry out a public consultation from 1 September to 14 October. Page 145 of 240
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5.10 At the same time, we will carry out an internal consultation, to ensure that all PKC staff are aware of the strategy and the role that they can play in helping to deliver it. 5.11 Following this period of consultation, we will draft our final Circular Economy Strategy, incorporating responses, for formal approval by the Committee in early 2026. 6. Conclusion 6.1 The Council’s Waste Management Plan 2010-2015 has delivered significant improvements in service, leading to the recovery of additional materials, increased recycling and reduced levels of residual non-recyclable waste going to landfill. 6.2 With the plan reaching the end of its life, and the national focus on moving towards a more circular economy, a Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan is required ensure that the Council is aligned to legislation and is better able to navigate the changing policy and technological environment. This will provide a fresh impetus for further service improvement, including the provision of new services and a greater emphasis on public engagement and behaviour change. It will also help to boost the local economy and promote fairness for everyone. 7. Impact Value Assessment Waste Management Plan update and Draft Circular Economy Strategy Consultation Document 8. Appendices 8.1 Appendix 1 – Circular Economy Draft Consultation Document Page 146 of 240
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Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 APPENDIX 1 1. INTRODUCTION Perth and Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2031 Consultation Document Perth & Kinross Council September 2025 8 Page 147 of 240
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Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 1.1. Circular Economy Strategy Consultation Welcome to this consultation, which seeks your views on the draft vision, priorities and actions for the first Perth and Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy (CES) and accompanying 5-year Action Plan (2026-2031). The Perth and Kinross CES is driven by the Scottish Government’s vision to ‘deliver a fully circular economy in Scotland by 2045, driven by responsible consumption, responsible production, and maximising value from waste and energy’. The CES will set out our priorities and action for the period 2026-2031, with an accompanying action and delivery plan. We have developed draft CES priorities and delivery areas for action. Before the final strategy is developed, we want to make sure that local people, communities, businesses and stakeholders have their say. Following this consultation, we will draft our CES strategy, incorporating responses, for formal approval by Perth & Kinross Council in early 2026. The views of residents, the local community, businesses and stakeholders are crucial in ensuring that the first Circular Economy Strategy (CES) truly reflects the issues faced by local people and includes the correct priorities and actions to address these issues. The circular economy is an approach that aims to reduce waste and keep products and materials in use for as long as possible. It focuses on designing out waste and pollution, reusing and recycling materials, and helping nature recover. This approach not only helps the environment but also boosts the economy and promotes fairness for everyone. Page 148 of 240
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Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 1.2. Why your views matter? 1.3. How to use this document The draft CES priorities and actions will be subject to public consultation until 14 October 2025. You can complete the questions in an online survey through the Council’s Consultation Hub. Consultation questions are contained within the document. Alternatively, you can email your question response to ClimateChange@pkc.gov.uk or post to: Climate Change Team, 35 Kinnoull St, Perth PH1 5GD. We encourage and welcome your feedback on the vision, priorities, and actions set out in this draft Perth and Kinross Circular Economy Strategy (CES). This consultation document poses a number of questions we would like you to consider. Please do not feel you have to answer all questions. Page 149 of 240
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Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 1.4. Structure of the Consultation This Consultation is broken down into nine topics with consultation questions through the documents following appropriate sections 1. Introduction 2. What is a Circular Economy? 3. National policy landscape 4. Alignment with local policy and strategies 5. Strategic Priorities and Delivery Areas 6. Delivery Area 1 – Waste and Recycling Operations 7. Delivery Area 2 – Council Services 8. Delivery Area 3 – Consumers and Society 9. Delivery Area 4 – Business and Industry 10. Prioritising Action, Delivery and Implementation 11. References 12. Glossary Appendix A – Detailed overview of National Policy The most relevant associated documents are available for review on the PKC’s Consultation Hub. For details on the latest updates on the CES consultation process, please visit our Facebook and Twitter pages: • Facebook: Perth and Kinross Council • Twitter: @PerthandKinross Page 150 of 240
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1 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 2. What is a Circular Economy? A circular economy promotes reduced consumption and production whilst maintaining the highest value of materials and products by keeping them in use for as long as possible (Figure 1.) to minimize waste. Figure 1. Circularity Principles and Strategies “The circular economy is a system where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated. In a circular economy, products and materials are kept in circulation through processes like maintenance, reuse, refurbishment, remanufacture, recycling, and composting. The circular economy tackles climate change and other global challenges, like biodiversity loss, waste, and pollution, by decoupling economic activity from the consumption of finite resources.” 1 Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2025) Page 151 of 240
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2 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 2.1. What does this mean in practice? To reduce the amount of finite materials that are consumed by production processes (for example fossil fuels) and maintain the highest value of materials and products that have already been produced and/or consumed, a number of initiatives can be utilised (Figure 2.). Figure 2. Practical CE initiatives 2 Page 152 of 240
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3 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 2.2. Why shift towards a Circular Economy? In the UK, we are consuming raw materials at an unprecedented rate, which has an impact on our environment, personal health, overall economy and our wallets. Around 80% of Scotland’s carbon footprint comes from the products and materials we manufacture, use and throw away. There are an estimated 1.6 billion items of unworn clothing in people’s closets (a quarter of overall clothing) 3 The average annual value of food wasted by Scottish Households is estimated at £440 per household 4 As a region (not including the UK), in 2022 the EU's consumption of goods and services led to 4.8 billion tonnes of global greenhouse gas emissions, which was about 9% of worldwide emissions.5 The average Scot also consumes more than double the sustainable level of material use at around 8 tonnes per person per year.5 In 2022, only 1.3% of the resources used in Scotland were cycled back into the economy, with over 98% of Scotland’s material use coming from virgin resources.6 “A circular economy, based on sustainable consumption and production, is essential to power Scotland’s transition to a fair, green and sustainable economy, and critical to meeting our obligations to tackle the twin climate and nature emergencies. Material consumption and waste are primary drivers of nearly every environmental problem Scotland currently faces, from water scarcity to habitat and species loss”. Scottish Government. (2024). Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030. Page 153 of 240
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4 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The circular economy has the potential to create over 500,000 new jobs across the UK.7 Although many people are becoming more aware of their consumption habits and are actively seeking to buy more sustainably, choices are often unavailable and they are often unaware of the hidden impacts involved in making and transporting the items they buy every day. Of the overall hidden impacts from consumer purchases, 86% come from the processes of production and transport. 8 Local businesses and industries have a large part to play in adopting circular business models - offering products as a service through leasing or subscription schemes, promoting sharing platforms to reuse and share existing products, or take-back programs to encourage the of return products for refurbishing and recycling. Business and industry also have a key role in leading through collaboration and innovation – working together with knowledge-based learning and development organisations to promote learning and skills to enable action for a circular economy, and with local government to support and implement circular regulations and practices. “The transition to the circular economy requires systemic change and asks for collaboration. A local government can set the ambition (urgency), define boundary conditions and nurture experimentation. Researchers and knowledge institutes can develop new insights and tools, validate ideas and boost awareness. Local entrepreneurs have the guts and imagination to take risks, accelerate change and deliver scale. Meaningful participation by citizens and residents is also crucial, as is educating the leaders, employees and consumers of the future.” Netherlands Enterprise Agency & Holland Circular Hotspot. (2020). Circular Economy and SDGs. Page 154 of 240
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5 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 2.3. Why do we need a Perth and Kinross Circular Economy Strategy With the publishing of the Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024, and Scotland's Circular Economy and Waste route map to 2030 9 in December 2024, the Scottish Government has demonstrated its commitment to a circular economy based on sustainable consumption, production, and resource management. The route map lays the foundation to support sustainable public services, in particular to modernise recycling, reuse and waste services, co-designed with communities and local government. Perth and Kinross Council policy and strategy needs to reflect this new legislative and national policy framework. The existing Perth and Kinross Council Waste Management Plan 2010 - 2025 10 was developed to work towards delivering Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan targets at a local level. The Plan mapped out how the Council would at the local level: achieve the national recycling and composting rates; develop initiatives to control waste arisings and waste growth; determine the strategy for the procurement of residual waste treatment; determine the future financial implications for waste management; promote the circular economy where products and materials are kept in high value use for as long as possible; and address the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the waste sector. The implementation of the waste management plan has seen the successful introduction of many of the planned improvements in service and associated waste and recycling infrastructure. This has resulted in improved recycling and reduced levels of non-recycled waste. In 2009/10 the recycling rate was 42%, with the average weekly waste collected per person of 10.4kg and total waste to landfill of 54,208 tonnes, compared to 51.7%, 5.8kg and 23,178 tonnes in 2023. Emissions from waste have fallen from 209,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2011/12 to 135,557 tCO2e in 2023.However, as with the national picture, recycling rates have stagnated over recent years, and the national target of recycling 70% of waste by 2025 has not been met. In part, this is due to delays in implementing national policy initiatives such as the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)11 and Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR)12. Variable levels of public Page 155 of 240
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6 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL engagement with waste services are also a cause for concern. Whilst there has generally been a good response to the twin-stream recycling service that was rolled out across Perth and Kinross in 2024, there are households who do not use the system correctly. Also, in the urban and semi-urban localities where we provide a kerbside food recycling service, recycling rates remain stubbornly low, even though there is ample container provision. With the waste management plan due to expire at the end of 2025, and in recognition of the national focus on the circular economy, the opportunity has been taken to incorporate and include the functions of the waste management plan within the scope of a wider circular economy strategy for Perth and Kinross. This will ensure that the Council is aligned to legislation and government policy and will provide a fresh impetus for further service improvement, including the provision of new services and a greater emphasis on public engagement and behaviour change. 2.4. What is our Strategic Vision for the Circular Economy? Our vision for this wider Circular Economy Strategy is: The framework for delivering this vision is set out in Section 5 below. "In Perth and Kinross, we aim to build communities where everyone understands how to use resources responsibly and reduce waste. We take pride in making thoughtful choices that support the environment and improve our quality of life, by protecting nature, growing the economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities. Together, we are working toward a greener and more sustainable future.” Page 156 of 240
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7 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 3. Policy landscape 3.1. National Policy There are several national policies in place or expected in the near future that help shape our targets and govern our proposed approach. A summary of these is detailed in Table 1, with more detail provided in Appendix A. Table 1. Relevant national policies and strategies Policy/Strategy Impact on Circular Economy Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan (2010) Recognised that a zero waste Scotland has an important role in helping to achieve the targets set in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Set the following specific targets including: recycling 70% of all waste by 2025 a ban on biodegradable waste to landfill by 2025. no more than 5% of waste going to landfill by 2025. Scotland’s Climate Change Plan (2020) The Plan sets out a vision for a Circular Scotland and identifies a range of actions needed to ensure Scotland meets its duties under the Climate Change Act. These cover the following related areas: Building the Circular Economy Driving down food waste Reducing waste sent to landfill Improving waste data Reducing emissions from closed landfill sites Promoting efficiency of energy from waste plants, Page 157 of 240
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8 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Encouraging reprocessing investment and Preventing waste Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030 (2024) The route map identifies the priorities to 2030 that will help Scotland to progress to a circular economy and maximise the positive impact of the Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024 for communities across Scotland. (Described in more detail below) Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (2022) Identifies the Circular Economy as an area of new market opportunity for the wellbeing economy - ‘generating new, well- paid jobs from a just transition to net zero - where resources are kept in high-value use, creating new market, innovation and job opportunities that will be key to achieving our targets for net zero and nature’. This will help with a Community Wealth Building (CWB) approach to promote local economic development through more productive and innovative businesses, industries, regions, communities and public services Procurement Reform Act (2014) Includes a requirement for contracting authorities to consider how they can improve economic, social and environmental wellbeing through regulated procurement and to act in a way to secure this. 3.2. Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030 Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030 9 was published in December 2024. It was developed following extensive collaboration and engagement with the public, private and third sectors through two consultations since 2022. The route map identifies the priorities to 2030 that will help Scotland to progress to a circular economy and maximise the positive impact of the Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024 for communities across Scotland. Page 158 of 240
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9 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The overall Scottish Government vision seeks to: This vision is underpinned by four strategic aims, each with a vision statement and associated key objectives: 1. Reduce and reuse “Reducing and reusing waste are at the top of the waste hierarchy and central to changing our relationship with materials and products. Building an economic system that moves away from being based on items designed to be disposable will bring significant environmental benefits”. Challenging the current approach to consumption and production Focus on reducing food waste Focus on embedding circular construction practices. 2. Modernise recycling “Recycling helps to conserve our natural resources, keeps valuable materials flowing through our economy and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. We want Scotland to become a world leader in recycling, where recycling and reuse services are easy to use and accessible to all, and support and encourage positive choices. […] Increasing the amount of materials recycled and increasing the proportion of these recycled in Scotland will deliver carbon reductions, reduce the environmental impacts associated with extracting new raw materials, and create a range of important economic opportunities to reprocess and reuse materials here in Scotland”. “Deliver a fully circular economy in Scotland by 2045, driven by responsible consumption, responsible production, and maximising value from waste and energy.” Scottish Government. (2024). Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030. Page 159 of 240
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10 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Modernise household recycling and reuse services, improving and optimising performance Support for business and commercial premises in Scotland to reduce waste and maximise recycling. 3. Decarbonise disposal “The production and management of waste results in environmental impacts and represents missed economic opportunities for these materials. That is why our focus in this Route Map is to prevent materials from becoming waste in the first place. As we accelerate our move to a circular economy, we will produce less waste. We want to ensure that materials that cannot be avoided, reused, or recycled are managed in a way that minimises environmental and climate impacts, encourages management of materials further up the waste hierarchy, and minimises broader societal impacts”. Understand the best environmental outcomes for specific wastes Ensure there is an appropriate capacity to manage waste Improve environmental outcomes for waste through innovation Incentivise decarbonisation of the waste sector 4. Strengthen the circular economy “Delivering a circular economy requires sustained transformational system change, and a range of actions that are both complementary and coordinated to drive sustainable management of our resources. If we are to maximise the opportunities that a circular economy brings to Scotland, we must maintain a strategic approach to its delivery, ensuring the right structures and support are in place to enable action”. Setting strategic direction and maximising impact Coordinating action across cross-cutting areas Robustly monitoring and evaluating progress. Page 160 of 240
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11 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The circular economy is a rapidly changing environment, and as such, the proposed strategy and action plan will need to be constantly evolving to account for moving national agendas, regulations and timelines. Based on the timeline knowledge to date, the latest key national deadlines are displayed in Figure 3. Page 161 of 240
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12 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Figure 3. Scotland’s Circular Economy and Waste Road Map to 2030 timeline Page 162 of 240
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13 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 3.3. Impact Screening The UK and Scottish Governments have statutory impact screening processes that apply to this Strategy, as detailed in Table 2. Table 2. Statutory Impact Assessments Requirement Relevance to the Circular Economy Strategy Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 - Strategic Environmental Assessment Under the guidance, this strategy requires a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). A SEA Scoping Report is being prepared to assess the effects of the proposed strategy on the environment and will be sent to the SEA Consultation Authorities (SEPA, NatureScot and Historic Environment Scotland) in August to allow for adequate consultation and feedback in-line with statutory SEA timelines. A copy will be published on the Council’s SEA page in August. Feedback will be considered when preparing the final strategy, alongside the preparation of an SEA Environmental Report. The Equality Act 2010 -Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment The Council is required to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations between equality groups. Under Part 1 of the Act ‘The Fairer Scotland Duty’, the Council is required to actively consider how it can reduce inequalities of outcome caused by socioeconomic disadvantage, when making strategic decisions. The Council’s Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) process ensures all significant Council strategies have as a minimum an EFIA screening inbuilt as part of the risk assessment process. Page 163 of 240
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14 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The Consumer Scotland Act 2020 - Consumer Duty The Consumer Duty is a statutory duty introduced by the Consumer Scotland Act 2020 that places a duty on relevant public bodies in Scotland. Decisions of a strategic nature must have due regard to: The impact of those decisions on consumers in Scotland The desirability of reducing harm to consumers in Scotland. The definition of a consumer is an individual or small business who buys, uses or receives goods or services in Scotland, or could potentially do so, supplied by a public authority or other body. Page 164 of 240
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15 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 4. Alignment with local plans and strategies 4.1. Perth & Kinross Council Corporate Plan 2022 - 27 Perth & Kinross Council's Corporate Plan 13 sets out a vision for a Perth and Kinross, ‘where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality’. To transform this vision into action, seven interdependent corporate priorities have been established: Working in partnership with communities Tackling poverty Tackling climate change and supporting sustainable places Developing a resilient, stronger and greener local economy Enabling our children and young people to achieve their full potential Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing The Circular Economy Strategy will set the path for working in partnership with communities to scale up reuse and resource sharing options to support the wellbeing economy and tackle poverty. It will facilitate working with business and industry to develop a stronger and greener local economy, all whilst tackling climate change and supporting sustainable places. 4.2. Transformation and Change Strategy The Council’s Transformation and Change Strategy (TCS) 14 was developed in 2022/23 with the aim to ‘support the delivery of services to the people of Perth and Kinross, particularly those in greatest need’. The TCS sets out the phase of transformation needed over a five-year operational period up to 2027/28 over 15 targeted projects, sitting within the Council’s wider strategic framework and acting as an enabler to deliver on the Council’s corporate objectives. ‘Project 15 - Zero Waste & Operations’ involves a review of waste strategy and waste management arrangements to deliver national initiatives, improved outcomes and realise Page 165 of 240
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16 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL best value and service efficiencies. It has a number of workstreams including: commercialisation review; operational asset review; circular economy strategy and service design beyond twin stream; schools recycling improvement and fleet transformation. Alongside this, the programme also includes a review of the delivery of our operations to ensure we are maximising opportunities for efficiency and effectiveness Workstream 4 focuses on developing a Circular Economy Strategy to inform the future transformation of the Council’s waste and recycling operations and associated infrastructure and/or major contracts expenditure, together with sustainable economic development activity with local businesses. 4.3. Perth and Kinross Waste Management Plan 2010-2025 The Waste Management Plan (WMP) 10 was adopted in November 2010 to promote and implement sustainable municipal solid waste management policies for Perth and Kinross, while minimising the overall environmental impact of waste by managing it in the most environmentally acceptable and economically efficient way, through the provision and co- ordination of appropriate wastes management facilities and services. 4.4. Perth and Kinross Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan 2021 - 26 The Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan 15 (adopted December 2021) contributes to several of the Corporate Plan priorities, with particular focus on ‘tackling climate change and supporting sustainable places’ and ‘developing a resilient, stronger and greener local economy’. It outlines the initial route map to take us to a net zero carbon and climate resilient Perth, with focus on the following areas of the Waste and Circular Economy Theme: Ensuring alignment with the Scottish Government Climate Change Route map Promoting a rapid transition to a Circular Economy Developing and delivering thematic action plans for the high carbon emissions materials Page 166 of 240
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17 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Improving our recycling services Maximising value from waste by reducing waste sent to landfill In addition to a number of existing waste management and recycling operations actions already included in the Action Plan from 2019 onwards, the specific actions (Table 3.) were added in 2021 to address the requirements of the Scottish Government’s Circular Economy Routemap. Table 3. Climate change strategy actions towards the circular economy Action to be delivered Status Undertake a Perth & Kinross Circular Scan to establish a baseline for the Circular Economy Route Map Partially completed Develop a Food Waste Action Plan Partially completed Maximise value from waste through reduction of greenhouse gas emissions via diversion of organic waste from landfill into recycling and energy production Partially completed Develop a Circular Economy Route Map including an action plan for Circular Textiles & Sustainable Fashion Begun Develop a Circular Economy Route Map including actions to reduce consumption of products and materials and make better use of existing products including tackling single use items Begun Development of a Resource Management Plan for Education & Children’s Services to improve the reduction and recycling of waste, energy efficiency and environmental messaging within schools Partially completed Work with the Resources Management Association (RMAS) to decarbonise sector and liaise with the Business & Industry Group Partially completed Establish a Stakeholder Advisory Group to review & develop the Waste & Circular Economy Action Plan. Begun 4.5. Perth and Kinross Economic Action Plan 2025 - 2030 Page 167 of 240
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18 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The Perth and Kinross Economic Action Plan 16 was approved in February 2025, setting out the approach Perth and Kinross Economic Partnership will take over the next five years (2025-2030) to grow a stronger, greener, fairer and more sustainable economy for Perth and Kinross, with the key objective of: Supporting local businesses to grow and attract jobs and investment Tackling inequalities Supporting the transition to net zero As with the Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan, the Economic Action Plan also supports the delivery of Perth and Kinross Council’s Corporate Plan’s seven priorities, focusing predominately on: Developing a resilient, stronger and greener local economy by promoting business creation and growth, skills development and job creation. Tackling poverty by promoting access to training and jobs to people experiencing, or at risk of, experiencing poverty. 4.6. Perth and Kinross Council Sustainable Procurement Strategy The Perth and Kinross Council Sustainable Procurement Strategy 2024 to 2029 20 was approved in June 2024. It reflects the Council’s dedication to ‘sustainability, economic growth, and the well-being of the people in Perth and Kinross’, putting sustainability at the heart of public procurement. Though sustainable procurement processes, it commits the Council to providing additional economic, social and environmental benefits to the people of Perth and Kinross. The strategy has 6 key aims, the two most relevant include: Economy and local wealth building - using our buying power to promote local economic growth, to then create jobs and help tackle poverty within our area Protecting our Environment - supporting a fair transition to net zero and minimising our environmental impact. Page 168 of 240
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19 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 4.7. Perth and Kinross Council Best Value Sustainable Development Duty Alongside helping to deliver the priorities and objectives of the Corporate, Climate Change, and Economic Action Plans, a Circular Economy Strategy for Perth and Kinross will also contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development through the Council’s Best Value Duty and how this contributes towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – with particular focus on: SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 13 - Climate Action SDG 15 - Life on Land. 4.8. Tayside Circular Economy Strategy A Tayside Circular Economy Strategy (commissioned by Zero Waste Scotland) is being developed to create value, build resilience and deliver a fairer, more inclusive economy for the Tay Cities Region, with the strategic objectives to: Showcase the Tay Cities Region as a UK leader in circular food, drink, and agriculture by building on our local strengths and innovative businesses. Position the region as a hub for smart and sustainable waste and resource management. Make circular thinking part of everyday practice in public services, education, workforce training, and business support. Build a strong network of partners across research, innovation, finance, and delivery to scale up new circular solutions and infrastructure. Page 169 of 240
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20 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The strategy (due to be published later in 2025) prioritises a small number of high-impact actions which are expected to deliver the following tangible benefits for the Tay Cities Region: Local economic value and resilience Job creation and future-ready skills Revitalised town and city centres Stronger circular innovation ecosystem Environmental impact and climate action. 5. Framework for delivering the Strategy 5.1. Strategic priorities and delivery areas In order to develop a strategy to deliver the above vision, a circular economy working group was established in February 2025 with members from across key Council Services. The focus of the group is to develop and set the strategic direction and priorities, provide baseline information to establish the Council’s current position in relation to these priorities , set key objectives for each theme and develop future actions, and prepare the consultation and final strategy and action plan. "In Perth and Kinross, we aim to build communities where everyone understands how to use resources responsibly and reduce waste. We take pride in making thoughtful choices that support the environment and improve our quality of life, by protecting nature, growing the economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities. Together, we are working toward a greener and more sustainable future.” Page 170 of 240
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21 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The Working Group identified that there was benefit to aligning the strategic priorities of the Perth and Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy with those adopted in Scotland's Circular Economy and Waste route map to 2030 9. The objectives (Table 4.) have been reviewed and modified from those at a Scottish level to be appropriate to Perth and Kinross and associated Council levers of influence. The background information used in selecting and forming these objectives is presented in Sections 6 – 9. Section 10 presents the draft Action Plan. Page 171 of 240
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22 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Table 4. Proposed strategic priorities and objectives Strategic Priority 1 - Reduce and reuse Objective 1.1 Work with our residents and businesses to change patterns of production, consumption and disposal Objective 1.2 Improve circularity of the Tayside Food System to promote local, healthy eating and reduce food waste and food poverty Objective 1.3 Reduce textile waste Objective 1.4 Ensure Council services, including schools , model best practice to lead by example Strategic Priority 2 - Modernise recycling Objective 2.1 Modernise household recycling and reuse services to maximise performance and meet evolving needs Objective 2.2 Support businesses and commercial premises to reduce waste and maximise recycling Strategic Priority 3 - Decarbonise disposal Objective 3.1 Understand the best environmental outcomes for specific wastes Objective 3.2 Ensure there is an appropriate capacity to manage waste Objective 3.3 Improve environmental outcomes for waste through innovation Objective 3.4 Support the incentivisation of decarbonising waste Strategic Priority 4 - Strengthening the circular economy Objective 4.1 Set the strategic direction and act as a regional catalyst for change Objective 4.2 Grow the enabling environment to support and attract circular businesses Objective 4.3 Encourage circular construction practices Objective 4.4 Coordinate action across cross-cutting areas and robustly monitor, evaluate and report progress Page 172 of 240
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23 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL In delivering these priorities and objectives, the Council identified four key delivery areas that we have control or influence over: Delivery area 1 - Waste and Recycling Operations Delivery area 2 - Council Services Delivery area 3 - Consumers and Society Delivery area 4 - Business and Industry Sub-groups have been established to provide expert knowledge and input into developing actions across the delivery areas. Collectively, these areas will drive the delivery of the four strategic priorities as shown in Figure 4. Figure 4. Strategic Priorities and Delivery Areas Page 173 of 240
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24 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Due to the interconnected nature of circular economy principles, in many cases the delivery areas will work with and across each other to deliver action with varying levels of impact (Figure 5.). Many of the actions from the final action plan will rely on input and support from more than one delivery area for success to be achieved. Whilst delivery areas 1, 2 and 4 will set the framework for delivering action, delivery area 3 ‘Consumers and Society’ will be key to the ongoing roll out and continued success of such action. Figure 5. Delivery Area level of impact on Strategic Priorities Consultation question 1 Do you agree with the proposed vision? If not, what would you change? Page 174 of 240
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25 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 5.2. Developing actions to assess potential opportunities and challenges. In May 2025, an internal workshop was held to begin the prioritisation and development of potential actions to help deliver the final strategy. Output from the workshop highlighted existing gaps and potential opportunities and challenges facing the delivery areas, and based on this, actions for delivering a circular economy are being developed. Sections 6 to 9 describe the connections typically associated with each key delivery area and the circular economy, and for each delivery area, provides an overview of: Consultation question 3 Do you agree with the proposed Objectives for this strategy? If not, what would you change them to, and why? Consultation question 2 Do you agree with the proposed Strategic Priorities for this strategy? If not, what would you change them to, and why? Consultation question 4 Do you feel the 4 delivery areas adequately cover the sphere of action needed to deliver the strategic priorities for the CES? If not, what further delivery areas would you include, and why? Page 175 of 240
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26 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL how each delivery area can help deliver the circular economy a baseline position (where available) of the current circular economy understanding and practices throughout Perth and Kinross findings of a gap analysis to assess potential opportunities and challenges. This information will be used to develop the final strategy and action plan, alongside a monitoring and delivery framework. The framework will set the targets required for achieving and delivering action towards the circular economy in Perth and Kinross. The rapidly evolving national circular economy agenda is such that national targets for both household recycling and the strengthening of the circular economy have yet to be set. The recycling co-design process currently running until the end of 2026 will establish a framework for future recycling measures, shaping a future statutory household recycling Code of Practice and aid in meeting local statutory recycling and reuse household waste targets from 2030, set from 2027 onwards. The first national circular economy strategy is due to be developed in 2026, with circular economy targets being set by 2027. As both sets of targets will be ‘set and delivered through a joint action focused improvement programme between Scottish and Local Government’, the Council will adopt a watching brief on national target setting before finalising those within the CES monitoring and delivery framework. Although targets are still to be developed, a wide range of activities and actions are already taking shape locally towards the circular economy. These can viewed in Section 10.2, Table 8. Page 176 of 240
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27 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 6. Delivery Area 1 – Waste and Recycling Operations 6.1. How can this area help deliver a circular economy? Waste and Recycling Operations includes services provided by the Council directly, such as household and business waste and recycling collections and reuse facilities; and those we contract to other service providers, particularly in the recycling and waste processing sector. These have a major role in facilitating and promoting a shift to a circular economy through: Reducing waste Work with our businesses and residents to change patterns of production, consumption and disposal Provide leadership and capacity to support all services in Perth and Kinross to improve their management of materials and to review policies and practices through the lens of circularity Promoting recycling and re-use Setting recycling and reuse targets to improve performance Making it easier for households and businesses to reuse and recycle and to manage their residual waste in a responsible way Modernising waste management Investing in modern recycling and reuse infrastructure and services, to better manage waste and to create economic opportunities in the local reprocessing market Using digital technologies to improve business insights and enhance communications to improve customer service and influence customer behaviour Page 177 of 240
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28 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Decarbonising disposal Incentivising more sustainable reprocessing and disposal practices and infrastructure, through procurement processes and economic development activities Providing strategic oversight and coordination Developing new policies and strategies in line with national legislative and policy requirements Monitoring and evaluating progress of targets and actions across a range of sectors and responding accordingly Community engagement Engaging with communities and individuals to help them to understand the key role that they play in the circular economy, and to take responsibility for their own waste impact Encouraging participation in reuse and recycling initiatives to foster a culture of sustainability. 6.2. What is the current position across Perth and Kinross? Service provision Table 5 shows the range of collection services currently provided by Perth and Kinross Council. Table 5. Kerbside Household Waste Recycling Centres Non-recyclable black bag/general waste Recycling - Plastic, cans and cartons container mix. All kerbside listed (except co-mingled food and garden waste) Page 178 of 240
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29 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Recycling - Paper and Card Recycling - Food and garden waste in urban and semi urban locations Non-recyclable – non recyclable black bag/general waste, bulky waste, Waste Upholstered Domestic Seating (WUDS) Recyclable – glass, green waste, wood, scrap metal, car batteries, inert waste, plasterboard, tyres, cooking oils, engine oils Reuse – Textiles, bikes, books, mattresses (Friarton only), plus reuse containers at Kinross, Crieff, Inveralmond and Friarton. Household Waste In 2023, 470kg of household waste were generated per person in Perth and Kinross, totalling 71,456 tonnes of household waste by Perth and Kinross households (Figure 6.). 51.7% of household waste was recycled in Perth and Kinross, compared to the Scottish average of 43.5%. The carbon impact per person (tCO2e) from household waste in Perth and Kinross remains steady and consistently below the Scotland average. In 2023, 0.9 tonnes of Carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) were generated per person in Perth and Kinross, compared to 0.98 (tCO2e) for the Scotland average.17 Figure 6. Perth and Kinross Household Waste 2023 51.69% 27.14% 21.17% Generated Recycled Landfilled Other Diversion 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 Perth and Kinross Household Waste 2023 Page 179 of 240
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30 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL In 2023, 20,256 tonnes of organic waste was collected by Perth and Kinross Council. The total carbon impact of household organic waste per person in Perth and Kinross was 179.4 tCO2e. Of this, 169.5 tCO2e were from organic garden waste and 9.9 tCO2e from organic food and drink waste. The Council’s Residual Waste Contract Award provides a long-term solution ahead of the ban on landfilling municipal waste before 31 December 2025. This has resulted in the diversion of approximately 39,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste being sent to landfill, reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 11,868 tCO2e, in the first year of the contract. The planned completion of a new Energy from Waste facility at BINN EcoPark will secure a reliable, local, treatment solution for PKC waste whilst also generating energy to the existing private renewable energy grid and servicing the development of the Binn Eco Park. There is also the potential to export energy to local businesses and public bodies. Although still high, the proportion of adults satisfied with local refuse collection in Perth and Kinross shows a declining trend, mirroring the trend for the average across Scotland. For the period 2021-24, 82% of adults surveyed were satisfied with local refuse collection, compared to 78% for the Scotland average.18 Business Waste Generated business waste comprises waste from commerce and industry such as factories, utility and transport companies, shops, offices, hotels, restaurants, schools and hospitals and public sector organisations. It also includes waste from the mining and quarrying industries and estimates for the generation of agricultural waste. In 2021, 121,552 tonnes (t) of business waste were generated in Perth and Kinross, with the following five waste types accounting for 80% (97,276 t): Household and similar Page 180 of 240
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31 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL wastes 19% (23,335 t), Wood wastes 18% (22,228 t), Vegetal wastes 17% (20,661 t), Mixed and undifferentiated wastes 14% (16,586 t) and Common sludges 12% (14,466 t.19 Case Study 1 Perth and Kinross Council Twin-Stream Service The Council was successful in securing £2.7M from the Scottish Government Recycling Improvement Fund (RIF) to introduce a twin-stream service. The overarching benefits were to provide a more equitable service, better quality material, reduce waste contamination (by households disposing of additional waste streams at the kerbside) and promote a circular economy whilst benefiting the environment. The new grey bins brought the Council in line with the Charter for Household Recycling, which seeks to bring consistency to recycling services across the country. Consultation question 5 Do you feel this adequately addresses the current position in relation to Waste and Recycling Operations? Are there any other areas you feel should be addressed or any missing data you feel would be beneficial? If so, please provide details. Page 181 of 240
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32 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 71,000 households (approximately 97% of households) were issued with an additional grey bin (for plastics, metals & cartons) to allow for additional materials to be recycled (including soft plastics and foil) and repurposing of the blue bin (now paper, card and cardboard) service. The award also included funding for the expansion of recycling services to properties in Perth City Centre, whereby approximately 1000 properties had their existing communal bin hubs enhanced by the introduction of blue and grey bins, as well as a food waste recycling unit. Another factor required to support twin stream were upgrades to numerous road end facilities which the Waste Services Team co-ordinated in order to incorporate the additional grey bin. The introduction of the recycling collections to the city centre and the addition of the grey bin has produced the desired outcome, with increased quality of materials collected due to separating paper and cardboard from plastics, metals and cartons. In the year before the grey bin service, the contamination rate in the blue bin was 18.7%. Recent data shows the average contamination rate for the blue bin to have reduced to 2.3%. The success of the ‘twin stream’ rollout secured an Association Public Service Excellence Bronze award in the Waste and Recycling category. Case Study 2 Transforming Waste Management at Crieff Hydro Over the years, the Commercial Waste Team has played a pivotal role in managing waste services for one of Perthshire’s most prestigious hotels at Crieff Hydro. Known for its Page 182 of 240
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33 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL expansive estate and high guest turnover, particularly in its self-catering accommodation, the hotel required a flexible and responsive waste management solution. In 2019 the Commercial Waste Team took over full waste management for the entire estate. Due to the dynamic nature of the hotel’s operations, with frequent guest turnover and seasonal fluctuations in occupancy, waste volumes varied significantly. This presented a challenge and coordinating collections across a large estate with multiple access points required careful planning and adaptability. Other challenges (Figure 8.) on site included: High levels of contamination in recycling streams. Missed collections caused by multiple collection points across the site. Access issues, particularly trolleys blocking the compactor area. Damage to customer property during collections. Overflowing waste containers. Figure 8. Challenges encountered at the outset Page 183 of 240
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34 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL In 2023, by adopting a proactive approach to the various challenges, the commercial waste team invited representatives from Crieff Hydro to visit Gleneagles Hotel (another PKC customer) to review the effective waste collection practices implemented there. During this exercise, the commercial waste team demonstrated the strategic waste management setup at the hotel, highlighting the following benefits of a well-structured waste collection system: Clean and efficient use of space via a centralised waste compound. Streamlined collection processes. Reduced contamination and improved recycling rates. Working together with Crieff Hydro, the commercial waste team presented a business case for investing to establish a business waste compound for the hotel, highlighting the long- term value through continued access to and use of the infrastructure. Collaboration between the commercial waste team and Crieff Hydro resulted in the creation of a reliable waste compound (Figure 9.). This intervention not only streamlined the waste management process but also significantly improved Crieff Hydro's operational efficiency. Figure 9. Improvements observed as the waste compound was being established Page 184 of 240
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35 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The close working relationship with Crieff Hydro played a key role in supporting the Commercial Waste Team’s success in: Designed and implemented a dedicated waste compound on-site. Consolidated all waste collection points into a single, accessible area. Provided guidance on best practices for segregation and storage. The transformation delivered significant improvements: Zero customer complaints since the new system was implemented. Reduced disposal costs through better segregation and fewer missed collections. Increased recycling rates, contributing to the business’s sustainability goals. Improved collaboration between the Commercial Waste and the Operations team. The Crieff Hydro project is now a benchmark for future commercial waste partnerships. 6.3. Challenges and opportunities The following key challenges have been identified for the Council’s waste and recycling operations in transitioning to and delivering a circular economy: Consultation question 6 Are there any other case studies you feel also reflect the Waste and Recycling sector’s contribution to the Circular Economy in Perth and Kinross? If so, please provide details. Page 185 of 240
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36 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Investment Challenges Reuse scale-up projects are capital-intensive, requiring significant property and financial investments Introduction of Energy Trading Scheme to EfW presents a significant cost risk, linked to emissions from hydrocarbons (plastics) The changing policy and legislative landscape over the next 1-3 years introduces a level of uncertainty, which impacts on investment planning Competition Among Reuse Organisations Despite good networking, reuse organisations compete for materials and funding. Lack of Awareness There is insufficient awareness about the reuse potential of key materials and their benefits. Traceability of materials. People are unaware of where waste ends up, resulting in a mistrust that recycling is actually happening. Process and Procurement Obstacles Tendering on price alone can make it difficult to secure local suppliers. More consideration needs to be given to local production and other sustainability criteria when tenders are being specified. Audience Engagement and Communication Costs Difficulty in reaching and engaging new, sometimes uninterested, audiences. Accessing mainstream communication networks (e.g. TV) is expensive. Recycling Challenges Issues include poor engagement in schools, inconsistent internal bin frameworks, and non-compliance with recycling practices. Waste Management Issues Page 186 of 240
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37 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Problems with recycling certain plastics, confusion among new residents, lack of coordinated food waste plans, and increasing fly-tipping. The following key opportunities have been identified for the Council’s waste and recycling operations in transitioning to and delivering a circular economy: AI and Digital Solutions Digital solutions can help transform existing processes, for example it can help improve in-cab technology to provide up-to-date collection info to householders and businesses, including feedback on contamination / poor recycling practice in waste contamination identification. Waste Hierarchy Maximise upstream waste hierarchy (see Figure 12.) interventions to reduce as much plastic as possible from residual waste streams. Technological developments Support emerging technology that can process hard to treat plastics to form raw material for further production uses, creating value and reducing the incineration of hydrocarbons. pEPR funding The funding will enable necessary investments to be made to improve service delivery and recycling infrastructure. Deposit Return Scheme This has the potential to improve the quality and value of recyclate, increase recycling rates and reduce roadside litter significantly. Page 187 of 240
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38 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 7. Delivery Area 2 – Council Services 7.1. How can this area help deliver a circular economy? Council services have a major role in facilitating and promoting a shift to a circular economy through: Resource efficiency and waste reduction Designing buildings that are energy-efficient and have a lower environmental footprint, utilising renewable energy sources (such as solar panels and energy- efficient lighting systems) and improving insulation and heating systems in housing and property. Also helping to improve living conditions and promote social equity Implementing procurement practices that promote whole life decision making and optimise the use of natural resources by reducing material waste, energy consumption, and water usage throughout the supply chain Promoting resource efficiency through increased use of electric, hybrid and other low-carbon vehicles in the Council’s fleet, reducing emissions and reliance on fossil fuels Consultation question 7 Do you agree with these identified opportunities and challenges for Waste and Recycling Operations? Are there any additional opportunities and/or challenges that you think should be addressed through the CES? Page 188 of 240
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39 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Responsible consumption through reuse, repair and recycling Designing and constructing for durability, repair and upgradability so products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible, leading to reduced waste. For example, by reducing the need for improvements/renovations or new construction of buildings and spaces; adopting modular building design for easier disassembly, reuse and repurposing for different uses over time; innovation in medical equipment across the health and social care sector Improved and joined up project planning to optimise the use of materials and resources to reduce excess and waste – for example, on-site recovery and reuse of road surface materials or off-site road patching or verge filling Promoting circular construction practices through reusing building components and materials from demolition projects, repurposing old or discarded materials, and recycling of building construction waste materials (such as concrete, steel, wood) Adopting maintenance and repair regimes to extend the lifespan of existing equipment and exploring business models that promote the leasing and sharing of equipment and materials or offer Product-as-a-Service (PaaS). This helps avoid upfront costs of purchasing equipment and technology and offers a wider range of smart energy efficient solutions (such as smart street lighting, smart bin sensors for bins in public spaces and smart irrigation systems for greenspaces). Community Engagement and Education Organising, supporting and promoting local events and initiatives that help inform local communities how to implement circular practices through behaviour change, for example - upcycling projects, repair cafes, recycling drives, sharing surplus produce from community food growing initiatives. Page 189 of 240
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40 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Promoting increased participation in recycling and positive behavioural change by residents through waste management campaigns such as ‘Stick to the Six’. Improving knowledge and skills development around the circular economy by hosting workshops and educational programs to raise awareness of circular economy principles and how they can be incorporated into daily life. Promoting alongside the curriculum provides opportunities to learn for future careers in sustainable engineering and construction, environmental science, and green business practices. Providing opportunities for volunteering, for example – litter picks, park clean-ups, tree planting, biodiversity and conservation activities, community food growing and gardening. Fostering collaboration among local businesses, organisations, and residents in support of circular projects and initiatives – for example, tool and equipment sharing networks. 7.2. What is the current position across Perth and Kinross? This section provides an overview of some of the areas of activity already taking place within Council services towards the circular economy. Consultation with services is ongoing and a number of internal engagement sessions are planned to run alongside this consultation. Procurement As part of the Council’s Transformation and Change Strategy (TCS) 14 (developed 2022/23), Project 11 ‘Strategic Procurement & Commissioning Project’ aims to optimise the public value of the procurement function and consolidated relevant skills and expertise across the organisation. One of the agreed project outcomes is to ‘support and promote sustainable procurement and a circular economy model’. Page 190 of 240
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41 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Elements of the circular economy have been embedded into many Council contracts on an ad hoc basis from environmental or cost consideration. In 2025 the Council’s Procurement and Climate Change Teams are working to explore the full climate and circularity potential in select pilot contracts. Restricting choices through contracts on the basis of circularity also presents an opportunity to reduce the total amount of goods and services being procured and consumed. Where purchase is still required, focus on local procurement spend helps minimise the emissions associated with supply chain logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, as well as promoting local suppliers and manufacturers who have established circularity practices, such as minimal or renewable, recyclable or biodegradable packaging, and share and repair models. Since 2014-15, the percentage of total procurement spend that is spent on local businesses by Perth and Kinross Council has remained between 18-24% but continues to fall consistently below the Scotland average. In 2023-24, 21% of Perth and Kinross Council's procurement spend was on ‘core trade’1 local enterprises, compared to 31% for the Scotland average.18 Analysis carried out in 2023 by CO2Analysis on the Council’s procurement and finance spend data, found the top 5 suppliers in terms of carbon emissions (tonnes) were responsible for just under half of all emissions from the top 100 organisations. Carbon is a good indicator of overall resource input and is a priority area of focus for circular economy interventions. Table 5 lists the actual carbon emissions (tonnes) for each of the top 5 suppliers. 1 Core trade refers to Council spend over £1000 (Source: Improvement Service, LGBF) Page 191 of 240
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42 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Figure 10. % share of carbon emissions by Top 10 supplier organisations Table 5. Carbon emissions (tonnes) from top 5 suppliers Supplier Type of business Carbon tonnes (t) Tayside Contracts Commercially based local authority contracting organisation providing catering, cleaning, roads maintenance, vehicle maintenance and winter maintenance throughout Perth and Kinross. 15,769 BAM Nuttall Ltd BAM Nuttall Ltd is the main contractor for the Cross Tay Link Road, part of the Perth Transport Futures infrastructure upgrade programme. 15,644 14% 14% 8% 6% 6% 52% Tayside Contracts BAM Nuttall Ltd Hub East Central Scotland Avondale Environmental Ltd Axiom Education (Perth and Kinross) Ltd Other top 10 Page 192 of 240
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43 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Hub East Central Scotland Hub East Central Scotland (hubco) is a public/private partnership organisation delivering new community infrastructure across Perth and Kinross. Projects include the multi-million pound Passivhaus design and building contracts Riverside Primary School, Perth High School and replacement Blairgowrie Recreation Centre. The tier 1 and Tier 2 supply chain is managed directly by hubco. 9,073 Avondale Environmental Ltd Organisation responsible for the landfill site near Falkirk where our residual waste was sent until July 2023 6,269 Axiom Education (Perth and Kinross) Ltd Private consortium responsible for the design and construction of six new learning campuses (including schools and community facilities) and their operation and maintenance over a 30-year period. 5,972 Community Food Growing Perth and Kinross Council has produced a Food Growing Strategy setting out how it intends to increase the provision of food growing sites, especially in areas that are experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, and to protect and support existing sites. The strategy aims to create opportunities and improve skills for people to grow their own fruit and vegetables across Perth and Kinross to promote healthy, sociable and sustainable lifestyles. There are 31 listed Community food growing sites in Perth and Kinross, which include Allotments, Community Gardens & Fields, Community Orchards & Woodlands, Urban Farms, Institutional /Organisational growing spaces, Edible hedges, Herb and vegetable boxes, and Home Growing. The Perth and Kinross Food Growing Story Map highlights existing food growing sites and projects, plus opportunities and advice for those who are interested in setting up a new food growing initiative. Page 193 of 240
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44 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL In the climate change engagement survey referred to previously, when asked if they would be interested in getting involved in community food growing initiatives in their area - 70% of respondents expressed an interest in potential community food growing21 Energy and Buildings Energy makes up the largest share of Perth and Kinross Council’s own direct emissions (44%) and 12% of Perth & Kinross’s overall emissions. Work is focused on both the Council’s own domestic and non-domestic estate and helping our residents and businesses to decarbonise and drive the energy transition. PKC has committed to building all new non-domestic buildings to Passivhaus Standard. This has led to completion and occupation of Perth and Kinross Council’s (and Scotland’s) first certified Passivhaus primary school - Riverside Primary School in North Muirton. Recent analysis has shown that the schools energy performance is currently 40 kWh/sqm/pa which is well below the energy target of 67 kWh/sqm/pa for core use. Construction is close to completion for a further two Passivhaus projects for the replacement of Perth High School and Blairgowrie Recreation centre. Passivhaus helps to both reduce operational resource need and promote durability of design. More widely the design specifications, repairability, maintenance and longevity of materials are all important considerations. Under the Council’s Climate Change Action Plan and Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy, the Council has plans for energy retrofit of both its domestic and non-domestic estate. Within buildings themselves, the Council has utilised the Kinross Wooden Products Company for office furniture reuse. This has helped to reduce waste to landfill, support the local economy and save the Council £143,000 annually in new furniture spend. Page 194 of 240
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45 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Roads Maintenance The Roads Maintenance Partnership is working to maximise reuse and minimise the need for new materials. The recovery of road surface materials such as road planings are currently being used in the resurfacing of B, C and D classified roads. Where possible, and as a first choice, recovered asphalt is being reused on-site to form lower road layers. Where this is not an option, the recovered asphalt is reprocessed by Tayside Contracts at Collace Quarry for use as a sub-base added to a 5% asphalt mix. This can be used for reconstructed patching, or when there is an excess of material it is sold on to other contractors. For category B, C and unclassified roads where historically asphalt has been added on top of unsurfaced tracks, there is potential for using regraded old, crushed stone, subject to SEPA licensing conditions for holding and storage at local sites. The stone can also be used to fill roadside verges. Materials from drainage ditches currently go to landfill as they are mixed with saturated soil and there are currently no storage facilities to dry them out for repurposing. If storage facilities and drying equipment become viable there is potential for future reuse of repurposed materials as topsoil for verges. Tayside Contracts, in partnership with Perth and Kinross, Angus, and Dundee City Councils has recently introduced Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) materials into the range of low carbon materials produced at Collace Quarry for more sustainable road surfacing. Warm mix asphalts are manufactured, supplied and laid at temperatures lower than conventional hot mix asphalts (20 to 40°C less). Benefits of WMA include: Reduced greenhouse gas emissions due to reduced energy in the asphalt manufacturing process – with a reduction in CO2 emissions of between 5% to 15%, dependant on asphalt plant settings and other factors. Page 195 of 240
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46 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Based on projected sales for 2025/26, potential to reduce annual CO2 emissions at Collace Quarry by 109.8 tonnes - equivalent to taking 25 cars off the road for a year, or 60 round trips from London to New York, or the annually electricity to power 70 homes.22 Tayside contracts is now using vegetable-based fuels for plant and heavy vehicles instead of diesel, with most of the small fleet vans now electric. Case Study 3 U38 Stanley to Newmiln Road - Road Edge Strengthening Project. The U38 from the A9 to 5 Mile Wood was upgraded whilst the A9 Luncarty to Birnam road was being dualled. The road edges on the remaining section from 5-mile wood to the railway bridge at Stanley were in very poor condition with motorists driving along the verges when encountering oncoming traffic. In the past this was repaired by removing the soil and laying asphalt. A contract was prepared to widen the road and trial pits were excavated to determine the quality of the underlying material, with cores taken to determine the depth of the current asphalt and whether there was coal tar present. From the trial pits it was determined that the excavation would require to be 250mm deep, and specification was made for 100mm of sub-base and 150mm of asphalt material. Analysis of the cores advised that there had been coal tar used when the original surfacing was carried out (1940/50s). In view of this, the design was revised to only step joints at 100mm depth to avoid disturbing the coal tar and overlay the full width of carriageway. The planing operation produced 620 tonnes of planings. The usual procedure is for planings to be transported to Collace Quarry for processing and reuse in new asphalt materials. The vehicles taking planings to Collace then pick up new sub-base material for reuse. Page 196 of 240
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47 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The reuse of planing material as sub-base reduced HGV lorry journeys by 928 miles and reduced the tonnage of new sub-base material by 620 tonnes (representing a cost saving of £8170). Revised specification to avoid disturbing the coal tar saved hgv lorry journey by 1280 miles (representing a cost saving of £5400). Reuse of the sub soil material as verge fill reduced hgv lorry journeys by 600 miles and prevented the original material from being landfilled. It also reduced the tonnage of new material by 300 tonnes (representing a cost saving of £2400). Total savings made - 400 gallons of diesel fuel, 920 tonnes of new quarried construction materials and cost savings of £15,170. Education and Schools A review is underway to look at the current arrangements for recycling within 11 clusters of schools in Perth and Kinross, with a view to improving the recycling infrastructure and reducing residual waste in all Perth & Kinross Council learning establishments. This will form part of a planned Resource Management Plan for Education & Children's Services. In February 2025, Bertha Park High School hosted a workshop with the aim of bringing together representatives from different organisations in Bertha Park and Perth and Kinross Council to develop a pilot research circular clothing project in Bertha Park. The workshop showcased a 10-minute film produced by the Bertha Park High pupils on attitudes of pupils towards fast fashion and circular clothing models, as part of the “Festival of Social Science” completed in November 2024. A representative from the Perth-based clothing reuse organisation ‘Social Flock’ also gave a presentation outlining the role their organisation plays in redistributing clothing to families in need, including the different package options for reusing and redistributing school uniforms. Work is underway to promote and support school food growing projects, including a new project in association with Meigle and Ardler Development Trust. Health and Social Care Page 197 of 240
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48 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL In 2022, the census estimated over 37,226 people aged 65 years and over in Perth and Kinross, accounting for 24.7% of the population (Scotland: 20.1%). This signals a significant demand for health and social care services across the Council. Consideration is needed to address the economic impacts of the increasingly dependent population alongside a falling proportion of the under 15-year population and the impact this will have. 23 The Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is one the main spend areas for the Council. Initial review identified limited existing practice in this area, but a willingness to explore opportunities going forward. One example of this is the widening out of the mattress reuse project (Case Study 4 below) to encourage HSCP colleagues to purchase the cleaned mattresses instead of buying new. Consultation question 7 Do you feel this adequately addresses the current position in relation to Perth and Kinross Council Services in relation to activity around the Circular Economy? Are there any other areas you feel should be addressed or any missing data you feel would be beneficial? If so, please provide details. Page 198 of 240
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49 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Consultation question 8 Are there any other case studies you feel accurately reflect Perth and Kinross Council’s Services contribution to the Circular Economy in Perth and Kinross? If so, please provide details. 7.3. Challenges and Opportunities The following key challenges have been identified for Council Services in transitioning to and delivering a circular economy: Skillset and capacity Many internal teams lack understanding of circularity principles and the associated benefits do not have the technical/industry knowledge/contacts to recognise all opportunities. Material flow data gap We have limited internal visibility of our own material usage and disposal. Materials storage The Council does not have large storage facilities and associated licences needed to store items in the gap between uses (e.g. asphalt, soil, furniture). There is also the issue between teams and partner organisations who would maintain liability and guarantees for the quality of materials. Financial pressures Budgets available mean it is not always possible to prioritise longer lasting, but more expensive items and cheaper, shorter life items often win. Need for guidance There is a lack of guidance/policy for procuring and tendering for sustainable construction and purchasing to reduce single use items. Page 199 of 240
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50 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The following key opportunities have been identified for the Council’s Services in transitioning to and delivering a circular economy: Sustainable Procurement Opportunities have the potential to drive change. For example, including the environmental impact of haulage into the Residual Waste contract can be extended to future procurements to reduce emissions and help make local suppliers more attractive. Good Food Nation The need to develop a Good Food Partnership and prepare a Good Food Strategy & Action Plan for Perth & Kinross by the end of 2026 will help bring many different strands of this work together. Cost Savings Through increased sharing, reuse and redistribution of materials. Sharing Good Practice The public sector as driver for industry change through tendering for construction and there is the opportunity to share more good practice. Consultation question 9 Do you agree with these identified opportunities and challenges for Perth and Kinross Council Services in delivering a Circular Economy? Are there any additional opportunities and/or challenges that you think should be addressed through the CES? Page 200 of 240
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51 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 8. Delivery Area 3– Consumers and Society 8.1. How can this area help deliver a circular economy? Consumers and society have a major role in shaping and driving the success of the circular economy through: Responsible consumption through reuse, repair and recycling Buying/using second-hand and pre-owned items or participating in swap events. Repairing and fixing items instead of replacing them and avoiding them being disposed of. Reducing waste by only buying new products when they are needed and consciously ensuring these products are durable, repairable, made from sustainable materials, and use minimal or recyclable packaging. Appropriately recycling and managing waste correctly Supporting Circular Businesses Consciously choosing sustainable brands and companies that practise circular economy principles and choosing to support and use those who offer take-back schemes and return used products for recycling or refurbishing. Community engagement and education Raising awareness of circular economy practices and products with friends and family and supporting initiatives that promote the circular economy. Participating in local events and initiatives such as community clean-up events, repair cafes, and recycling drives. 8.2. What is the current position across Perth and Kinross? Scotland's Census 2022 estimated the population of Perth and Kinross to be 150,953. This is an increase of 4,301 (2.9%) from Census 2011 (Scotland 2.7%).19 In 2022, the Circularity Gap Report Scotland 6 detailed the following seven key societal needs and wants and which products and services they include, as well as the volume of materials it takes to fulfil them: Page 201 of 240
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52 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Nutrition – food and drink production and consumption (26%) Manufactured Goods (18%) Housing and Infrastructure – construction and maintenance (17%) Services – use of commercial buildings, professional equipment, office furniture, computers and more (14%) Mobility – materials used to build transport technologies and vehicles and fossil fuels to power them (13%) Healthcare – construction and maintenance of buildings, equipment products such as X-ray machines, pharmaceuticals, hospital outfittings (beds), disposables and homecare equipment (10%) Communication (2%). There is a strong community reuse network in Perth and Kinross. The network was previously coordinated by PKC but has now been passed over to Remake as the lead for the zero waste strand of the newly formed Climate Connect Hub. The reuse network allows reuse organisations across Perth and Kinross to share ideas and resources and work collaboratively where possible. The Scottish Government considers that over 60% of the emissions reductions required to meet net zero in Scotland will require some kind of individual or societal behavioural change. Zero Waste Scotland has estimated that in Scotland around four fifths (80%) of our carbon footprint comes from all the goods, materials and services produced, used and thrown out, often after minimal use. A Zero Waste Scotland awareness survey undertaken in 2021 showed only one fifth of the population were aware that buying new products contributes to climate change.24 A survey of adults (aged 16+) commissioned by Consumer Scotland in 2024 on consumer behaviour and the transition to a circular economy, found: Many consumers (80% of those surveyed) want to reduce the carbon emissions from their everyday activities, but cost and convenience still drive purchasing decisions: Page 202 of 240
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53 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Current levels of consumer concern about climate change are not resulting in action that matches the pace and scale of change required Consumers are open to circular economy measures, but they require more support to move beyond low impact changes There is some consumer support for measures relating to reducing consumption, buying second hand, or increasing repair and re-use When asked for their views on a range of measures related to the use, reuse or disposal of household goods, respondents showed broad support for a range of measures to help promote more environmentally friendly behaviours, with: 92% of respondents agreed there should be more promotion of repair and reuse services, as well as recycling services 90% agreed products should be made so that they are easy to repair, and their components can be re-used 80% agreed companies that sell products should be responsible for taking them back for recycling or disposal at the end of product life With the environment in mind, for respondents under the age of 35: 65% were more likely to consider buying second hand (compared to 49% of all respondents) 61% were more likely to consider repairing worn or broken goods (compared to 52% of all respondents) 34% were more likely to consider leasing or borrowing rather than buying (compared to 22% of all) Women are also more likely to consider their action based on environment concerns with: 56% were more likely to consider buying second hand 58% were more likely to consider repairing worn or broken 26% were more likely to consider leasing or borrowing rather than buying25 Page 203 of 240
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54 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL In the 2020/21 Perth and Kinross climate change engagement survey, when asked about shopping habits: 44% of respondents said they preferred buying second-hand items 48% of respondents said they do not mind buying from second-hand stores, but would prefer to buy new items Only 7.6% of respondents said they do not like shopping at second-hand stores When questioned about their eating habits and diet: 85% of respondents showed a clear willingness to make changes to their eating habits and shift to a more sustainable and healthy diet - with 54% very willing and only 2% being very unwilling to make changes Respondents commented that cost, availability of local produce, lack of reliable information, skills and knowledge are the main things that limit them from changing their eating habits and shifting to a more sustainable and healthy diet17 In the Perth and Kinross climate change engagement survey referred to above, when questioned on waste and recycling, the survey found 91% of respondents answered that they can easily access recycling points in their area. Positive feedback from the waste themed virtual session found there was a strong interest in community groups in refurbishment and upcycling, with best practice local examples given for 1) Remake Crieff - offering employment and skills development in relation to recycling and reusing items, while being locally focused and beneficial to the community, 2) The Reuse container at Friarton Recycling Centre. Attendees also suggested encouraging more repair shops along Perth High Street in order to meet demand for more recycled materials. When asked about how food poverty impacts food waste, respondents raised the need for more work to be done on this area by the Council, on both food poverty and food security. Page 204 of 240
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55 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Case Study 4 Mattress Reuse from the Recycling Improvement Fund (RIF) Perth & Kinross Council currently accepts approximately 700 mattresses every month at recycling centres that the public no longer require. The third sector organisation PUSH (Perth & Kinross) Ltd has reported a high demand for mattresses (which they currently cannot meet) to sell at their busy re-use shop in Perth. Consultation question 10 Do you feel this adequately addresses the current position in relation to Consumers and Society and activity around the Circular Economy? Are there any other areas you feel should be addressed or any missing data you feel would be beneficial? If so, please provide details. Page 205 of 240
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56 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Following a successful bid for grant funding through the Recycling Improvement Fund (RIF) - Small Grants Scheme, Waste Services has partnered with PUSH allowing residents to drop off unwanted good quality mattresses at one of two enclosed 20yd containers at Friarton Recycling Centre. These are collected by PUSH and taken to their warehouse to be cleaned, disinfected and sold in their re-use shop in Perth city centre. Benefits of the project include: • Extending the life of mattresses to avoid disposal or recycling - therefore moving this up the waste hierarchy • Decreasing the requirement for virgin material extraction by avoiding the production of new mattresses • Decreasing carbon emissions related to the extraction, production, transport and recycling and disposal • Creating training and employment opportunities for local young people facing barriers to work • Offering a low-cost alternative for those seeking mattresses on a budget • Bringing increased custom to PUSH through the mattress marketing, leading to increased sales of other re-used items. Future development of the project will include housing colleagues purchasing the cleaned mattresses instead of buying new and using the cleaning equipment to increase the number of other types of items (such as upholstered seating) that can be cleaned and re- sold, that would previously have been too dirty to sell. Consultation question 11 Are there any other case studies you feel accurately reflect Consumer and Society’s contribution to the Circular Economy in Perth and Kinross? If so, please provide details. Page 206 of 240
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58 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 8.3 Challenges and opportunities The following key challenges have been identified for helping consumers in transitioning to a circular economy: Food poverty and food waste While there is a lot of impactful community led work going on, there are still high levels of food wastage and food poverty in our communities. Unsustainable consumption and production patterns Fast fashion is a common example but covers all aspects of people’s lives. These patterns have become so mainstreamed that there are often not easy to change and affordable alternatives are not available. Recycling education There is uncertainty over what can be recycled and what should not be recycled, with waste compositional analysis showing there is significantly more that can be recycled and contamination of recycling by things that cannot be recycled. Incorrect disposal of waste from fly tipping This is a growing problem in Perth and Kinross. Bin confusion New residents often confused about function of different waste and recycling bins when moving from different location. The following key opportunities have been identified for helping residents transition to a circular economy: Existing community networks There is a strong network of community reuse organisations, now coordinated by Climate Connect. Communications and engagement Page 208 of 240
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59 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Participate in initiatives and events that promote second hand purchasing and repair e.g. Share Repair Aware Week Community willingness There is a desire from many residents to make more sustainable choices, if it is made easy and simple to do. ‘Preloved’ clothing market is a growing sector. Awareness There is growing awareness of the inequality/human rights issues associated with ‘disposable’ clothing Consultation question 12 Do you agree with these identified opportunities and challenges for Consumers and Society in delivering a Circular Economy for Perth and Kinross? Are there any additional opportunities and/or challenges that you think should be addressed through the CES? Page 209 of 240
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60 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 9. Delivery Area 4 – Business and Industry 9.1. How can this area help deliver a circular economy? Business and industry have a key role in facilitating and promoting a shift to a circular economy through: Reduced use of primary resources Adopting processes that prioritise resource efficiency and waste minimisation Improving energy efficiency by implementing energy-saving measures and utilising renewable energy sources Reducing waste production by recycling and recovering materials. Maintaining the highest value of materials and products Designing products that last and are easily repairable and upgradable Using recycled and renewable materials to reduce waste Remanufacturing, refurbishing, and reusing products and components Operating circular supply chains so materials are continuously reused Investing in technologies and systems for recycling and recovering materials Promoting product life extension through maintenance and repair services Changing utilisation patterns Offering products as a service rather than for new sales (for example, leasing or subscription schemes). Adopting sharing models such as reuse and sharing platforms Creating take-back programmes to encourage consumers to return products for recycling and refurbishing Engaging with consumers to inform and encourage their participation in the circular economy. Leading through collaboration and innovation Page 210 of 240
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61 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Working in partnerships to collaborate with other businesses, government, and organisations to innovate and implement circular practices. Investing in new technologies and business models that support the circular economy Supporting and advocating for regulations that foster a circular economy. 9.2. What is the current position across Perth and Kinross? In 2024, there were 6,175 registered businesses in Perth & Kinross, employing a total of 54,932 people. The private sector employs 83% of the Perth & Kinross workforce. Perth City has been identified as an innovation cluster of electricity, energy, storage, agri-tech, water and waste. The top five private sector industries accounting for 70% of total employment in Perth and Kinross were: Primary industries 2 (19%); Wholesale, retail and repairs (17%); Accommodation and food service activities (15%); Education, human health and social work activities (11%); and Manufacturing (8%). Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing accounted for 90% of all Primary industries in Perth and Kinross (17% share of all). It is important to recognise that Perth and Kinross has a relatively diverse economy with no one sector dominating (see Figure 11). This emphasises that a circular economy can be adopted by most of the sectors represented in the Perth & Kinross economy. Figure 11: The Perth & Kinross Economy by Business Count and Sector (2024) 2 Primary industries refer to Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing; Mining and Quarrying, Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply; and Water supply – sewerage, waste management and remediation activities. Page 211 of 240
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62 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The top five private sector industries accounting for 96% of total turnover in Perth and Kinross were: Primary industries (44%); Wholesale, retail and repairs (20%); Manufacturing (20%); Construction (8%); and Accommodation and food service activities (4%). 10% of the businesses in Perth and Kinross each had a turnover of at least £1M. 26 The Green Economy In a 2025 study by waste management experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk, Perth ranked 5th out of 76 cities across the UK and 1st in Scotland as one of the most sustainable places to operate a business. 27 Between October 2020 and January 2021, Perth and Kinross Council conducted an online survey for climate change engagement in Perth and Kinross. 480 responses were received from a wide demographic across the Council area. There were also nine online engagement sessions that attracted over 240 virtual attendees.15 When questioned on their awareness of education, skills and funding support offered by Government or non-Governmental agencies to help businesses/organisations manage waste: 51% of respondents were not aware, 39% were somewhat aware, and 10% were fully aware. Page 212 of 240
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63 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL When asked to rank different strands of the Circular Economy in order of importance to their role in having an impact on climate change, respondents ranked from the most important 1) Recycling, 2) Reuse of resources/materials, 3) Prevention (for example, resource and product sharing, design for disassembly, servitisation and maintenance, leasing models, to the least important 4) Refurbishment and remanufacturing. This contrasts with the new waste hierarchy as seen in Figure 12. and is perhaps a reflection on where businesses feel they have most influence in their day-to-day activities. However, it may also reflect a lack of awareness of alternative interventions that may help them to reduce their environmental impact and potentially provide competitive advantage. Figure 12. Waste hierarchy Respondents expressed interest in appropriating land for food production and looking at agroforestry, and the issue of bio regionalism for Tayside and working in harmony with nature. Respondents also felt that as neither forestry nor agriculture are subject to planning control, and the Council is limited in its involvement with food production and agroforestry but seeks to support the sector alongside other sectors of the economy. Page 213 of 240
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64 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL When asked to provide details of what support respondents felt was required from both Government and non-Government agencies, to help the agricultural and forestry sectors to become more sustainable, respondents replied with suggestions for: Funding/subsidies Legislation and byelaws to protect nature and enforcement officers Land value tax – encourage the split of larger farms to allow new entrants Penalties for bad practice Incentives for climate and biodiversity friendly practice and activities Rural support squads. When asked for suggestions/projects on how the agriculture and forestry sectors can help to protect and develop our local natural capital (e.g. biodiversity, water, soil), respondents suggested: Research – use techniques and tools developed by JHI and RSGS Environmental improvement grants Increase biodiversity Managed wildlife areas Reduce the use of inorganic fertilisers. Changed and adaption to current farming methods and practices, including – Permaculture, Hydroponics and Aquaponics, Renewable energy sources, Crop rotation, and Polycultures v. Agroforestry. Page 214 of 240
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65 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Case Studies While there is yet to be wide-spread adoption, there are excellent examples in Perth and Kinross where businesses have benefitted from embracing circular principles. Examples of these include: Located in Glenfarg, the circular economy cluster at BINN Eco-park (previously a landfill site which is still generating methane gas), consists of several waste processing companies including Binn Group; SUEZ wood recycling/biomass fuel production and dry mixed recycling materials recovery facility; Earnside Energy anaerobic digestion plant, processing 30,000 tonnes of food waste per annum; and GAP Group’s new £15M fridge recycling facility. Planning permission is in place for the development of a new Energy from Waste facility and a new advanced plastics sorting and Upcycling facility (APSuF). The eco-park also generates green energy from wind turbines, which benefits the businesses and local communities and a solar PV project is at an early stage of development. Green Cat Hydrogen are developing a hydrogen production and storage facility which will be directly connected to renewable energy sources, producing around 1,000 tonnes of low-carbon hydrogen per year-some of which may, in future, be used to fuel refuse collection vehicles. Consultation question 13 Do you feel this adequately addresses the current position in relation to Business and Industry in Perth and Kinross? Are there any other areas you feel should be addressed or any missing data you feel would be beneficial? If so, please provide details. Page 215 of 240
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66 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The Blair Atholl Estate engaged in a trial of a new biofuel technology created by Oakland Biofuels. The new technology allows bracken to be converted into biofuel at a high rate of efficiency. Bracken is a toxic pest plant that damages woodland, agricultural land, and watercourses. Thousands of tons of bracken are removed from Scottish farms and estates each year typically either by use of pesticides or manual extraction which is typically burned as harvested bracken currently has limited commercial value. The conversion to biofuel presents an environmentally friendly alternative to petrol which can allow estates and farms to new generate value from what is currently only an expense by either selling the fuel or using it for on-site heat and power generation. The Tayside Upcycling Centre is home to numerous independent artisans who collect old or damaged furniture from households and businesses to reinvigorate them for re-sale. The initiative has been a roaring success with demand outstripping supply. They have generated wide awareness of their business from their recurring segment on the BBC’s “Money for Nothing” program. The Wild Hearth Bakery is a traditional rural bakery that uses waste wood from timber milling to power their ovens. They are also exploring plans to capture waste heat from these ovens to heat their premises as well as installing solar panels to generate electricity on site too. The agricultural business, Robert Bell and Partners, are engaged in a project to reduce their plastic waste by transitioning to a pit silage storage system. This entails storing their silage in covered ground pits which eliminates the large quantity of soft plastic waste produced by wrapping sage in plastic bales. DAS Signs have recently streamlined their production process with the acquisition of a new vinyl printing machine, part funded by Perth and Kinross Council’s Green Capital Development Grant. Their new process allows them to produce high quality signs with significantly reduced plastic input and energy use. This project will reduce their waste profile by over 450kg of plastic per year. Page 216 of 240
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67 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Comrie Croft is a farm that has recently acquired a new biomass burning system that enables them to convert their excess agricultural waste into heat. All heat for their farm and events buildings is now generated from their own agricultural waste. Home Economics are a small company that take good quality white goods from Friarton and Inveralmond Recycling Centres and repair and sell them. Consultation question 14 Are there any other case studies you feel may also reflect the Business and Industry sector’s contribution to the Circular Economy in Perth and Kinross? If so, please provide details. Page 217 of 240
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68 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 9.3 Challenges and Opportunities The following key challenges have been identified for Perth and Kinross businesses and industry in transitioning to a circular economy: Terminology ‘Circular Economy’ is not a well understood term and businesses often do not see the benefits and competitive advantage that it can provide. Resources With the higher number of SMEs in Perth and Kinross and the associated the small workforces many businesses do not have dedicated people/resources to explore new areas. Access to finance needed to implement new products or processes. Food and hospitality There is a lack of widespread awareness of available food redistribution infrastructure. Standards around time-bound barriers limit efficient sharing while food is still edible. Construction There is a lack of incentives for the construction industry to move away from a demolition/new build approach to one of refurbishing existing buildings, or constructing ones that are designed to be disassembled at the end of life (housing in particular). Landing Strip for Circular Economy The Council is establishing an on-line ‘Landing Strip’ ecosystem that fosters the development of a regenerative and climate resilient economy through a focus on circular materials, remanufacturing, repurposing and bioeconomy (including advanced food and crop production), but will not exclude other low carbon or clean technology developments where opportunities arise. Page 218 of 240
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69 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL The following key opportunities have been identified for Perth and Kinross businesses and industry in transitioning to a circular economy: Established partnership working Strong relationships with circular economy expertise – JHI, BINN, CERECO, RMAS, Highland Spring and the local environmental consultant base. Established demonstration sites and projects where the principles of a Circular Economy can be seen and utilised as a basis to attract other businesses and investment Maximise on well-established relationships with JHI and other Agri-sector leaders to encourage more engagement with farmers and Agri-sector. Best practice There are numerous Perth and Kinross exemplars to learn from, including manufacturers and producers to agencies that help to redistribute food and recycle waste. The Circular Economy Tayside study of 2018 highlights potential food and agriculture opportunities such as valorisation of unused fruit and potato residues and starch production from by-products. Also highlights a range of opportunities in plastics recovery and remanufacturing, tackling food waste across the value chain and in the construction and the built environment sector. Consultation question 15 Do you agree with these identified opportunities and challenges for Business and Industry in delivering a Circular Economy for Perth and Kinross? Are there any additional opportunities and/or challenges that you think should be addressed through the CES? Page 219 of 240
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70 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 10. Prioritising Action, Delivery and Implementation 10.1. Prioritising action The delivery of the CES will be supported through prioritisation of actions using a risk- based matrix approach. This approach is commonly used in risk management to assess, prioritise, and manage risks based on their likelihood and impact. Figure 13. provides an example of the assessment criteria that may be used. Figure 13. Example Risk Assessment Matrix Actions to deliver the CES are currently being developed based on the opportunities and challenges outcomes highlighted from the May workshop. Participants of the workshop were asked to identify opportunities and challenges based on the following criteria: Legislation Cost and savings Page 220 of 240
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71 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Delivery timeline Efficiency Innovation Buy-in and alignment with corporate priorities Engagement Resources Logistics Networks / partnerships Performance monitoring Feedback from this consultation, along with comments from the SEA Consultation Authorities, will be used to inform and develop actions to deliver the CES. 10.2. Delivery and Implementation The draft CES Delivery Plan in Table 6 focuses on the four delivery areas highlighted above to take forward actions, both in the short term (within one year) and medium term (2-3 years) or long term (4+ years), with Delivery Plan priorities and target dates being developed with key stakeholders through a series or future workshops and engagement sessions. Consultation question 16 Do you agree with the criteria and approach to developing actions based on the opportunities and challenges highlighted in the sections above? Are there any additional criteria you think should be considered? Page 221 of 240
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1 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Table 6. Draft Delivery Plan ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness Develop a Food Waste Action Plan alongside an awareness campaign to show the financial and carbon value of food Roll out more food waste hubs, as part of the Food Waste Action Plan Develop baseline data of knowledge, participation and barriers to reducing food waste Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy High Invest pEPR funding in a range of improvement actions including improved infrastructure, frequency of service, education and behaviour change campaigns, support for community reuse organisations and improving data flow and business insights. Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Design and deliver fly-tipping communications campaign to reduce the number of fly-tipping incidents and raise awareness with householders of their legal Duty of Care obligations. Promote special uplifts and other support mechanisms Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy Medium Page 222 of 240
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2 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness Prepare for forthcoming legislative and policy changes by engaging in research, consultations and co-creation workshops for the following: Digital waste tracking Waste and recycling code of practice Organic waste (food and green waste) Deposit Return System Regional hubs and/or networks for construction material reuse Emissions Trading Scheme Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Improve public engagement approaches as follows: Provide new residents with a PKC welcome pack via estate agents/landlords, Council Tax etc. which includes information on bins Continue Recycle Right awareness across multiple channels Adopt video and social media communications to better connect with the public - for example to demonstrate where their waste and recycling goes, improve understanding of the Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy/ Moderate Medium Page 223 of 240
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3 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness fees/costs of processing waste, the risks of fire from batteries etc Explore AI powered app to assist people to know what bin to put materials into Continue and enhance partnership working with reuse organisations, and map Perth and Kinross Reuse Network activities to support information sharing network across the sector Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy Medium Commission a circular scan of PKC activities to identify opportunities for impactful circular solutions Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Review PKC procurement processes to embed circular economy principles to reduce consumption of products and materials, for example reducing single use items and specifying sustainable construction criteria Develop category strategies for high emission categories that consider climate change Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Page 224 of 240
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4 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness Develop standard specifications and tender questions for climate change Asset Management Review of Waste & Recycling Infrastructure - to establish investment requirements to support a sustainable (monetary & carbon) operational asset base in line with the approach set out in the Councils approved Property Asset Management Strategy Modernise recycling Council services Difficult High Development and implementation of a Resource Management Plan for Education & Children’s Services to improve the reduction and recycling of waste, energy efficiency and environmental messaging within schools (CAP action 111) Reduce and reuse Council services Difficult High Promote learning for sustainability and create fun/challenging STEM subject initiatives to encourage young people to improve school recycling Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Develop a digital platform to highlight resources that can be shared or reused across Council services Reduce and reuse Council services Easy Moderate Page 225 of 240
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5 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness Investigate potential for using regraded old, crushed stone – begin discussions with SEPA for potential storage licensing solutions Reduce and reuse Council services (roads maintenance partnership) Difficult Moderate Explore the creation of a goods depot for use by different PKC projects - could this be an initial employment opportunity for upskilling (Castle Huntly) Reduce and reuse Council services Moderate High Develop a Textiles campaign to reduce consumption, reuse and repair of textiles and recycle correctly at end-of-life Develop campaigns to promote sustainable clothing choices Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Moderate Medium Develop a Good Food Partnership and prepare a Good Food Strategy & Action Plan for Perth & Kinross Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Moderate Medium Invest in a digital reuse platform to link businesses / public sector / third sector / reuse organisations to share unwanted items and monitor associated carbon saving Reduce and reuse Consumers and Society/Business and Industry Moderate Medium Page 226 of 240
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6 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness Undertake a Perth & Kinross Circular Scan to establish a baseline for the Circular Economy Route Map (CAP action 106) Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Moderate Medium Work with the Resources Management Association (RMAS) to decarbonise the sector and liaise with the Business & Industry Group (CAP action 112) Decarbonise disposal Business and Industry Difficult High Establish a Stakeholder Advisory Group to review & develop the Waste & Circular Economy Action Plan (CAP action 113) Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Moderate Medium Work with and influence businesses to highlight benefits, cost savings, new income streams and promote and reward ‘green’ credentials Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Easy Medium Develop and launch the Circular Economy Landing Strip/ Clean Growth Axis – a platform and support system integrating PKC, relevant statutory bodies, funding organisations, and private sector to drive large scale circular economy projects into Perth and Kinross Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Difficult High Encourage the effective collection of consumable surplus food from all stages in the supply chain, from farms to retail, and redistribute it to community food organisations Reduce and reuse Business and Industry Moderate Medium Page 227 of 240
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7 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective(s) Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness while working to raise the nutritional standards of the food being offered Support the development of Project beacon – a Tay Cities Deal project aimed at removing hydrocarbons from residual and recycling waste streams. Decarbonise Disposal Business and Industry Difficult High Page 228 of 240
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1 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 11. REFERENCES 1. Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2025). What is a Circular Economy? 2. PWC (2019). The road to circularity report 3. BBC News (2022). UK wardrobes stuffed with unworn clothes, study shows 4. Net Zero Nation. Recycling food waste 5. European Union (2025). Statistics Explained - Greenhouse gas emission footprints. Retrieved from: Eurostat website 6. Circle Economy (2022). The Circularity Gap Report Scotland 7. WRAP (2015). Employment and the circular economy 8. Netherlands Enterprise Agency and Holland Circular Hotspot (2020). Circular Economy and SDGs 9. Scottish Government (2024). Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030 10.Perth and Kinross Council (2010). Waste Management Plan 2010 - 2025 11. Scottish Government (2025). Managing Waste – Deposit Return Scheme 12. UK Government (2025). UK joint policy statement on packaging Extended Producer Responsibility 13.Perth and Kinross Council (2010) Corporate Plan 2022 - 2027 14.Perth and Kinross Council (2022). Transformation and Change Strategy 2022/23 – 2027/28 15.Perth and Kinross Council (2021) Perth and Kinross Council Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan 2021 - 2026 16.Perth and Kinross Economic Partnership (2025). Perth and Kinross Economic Action Plan 2025 – 2030 17.SEPA (2024) Household waste generated and managed 2023 18.Improvement Service (2025) Local Government Benchmarking Framework Dashboard 19.SEPA (2023) Business Waste Data for 2021 Page 229 of 240
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2 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 20.Perth and Kinross Council (2024) Sustainable Procurement Strategy 2024 to 2029 21.Perth and Kinross Council (2020) Climate Change Public Engagement Survey 22.Tayside Contracts (2025). Collace Quarry WMA 2025 – Non-technical Overview 23.Scotland’s Census. Scotland’s Census 2022 © Crown Copyright 2021 24.Zero Waste Scotland (2021) Everything we buy has a carbon cost 25.Consumer Scotland (2024) Consumers and the transition to a circular economy 26.Scottish Government (2024) Businesses in Scotland Statistics: 2024 27.BusinessWaste (2025) The Most Sustainable UK Cities for Businesses 28.Invest in Perth (2025) Binn Eco Park, The Circular Generation Page 230 of 240
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3 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL 12. Glossary CES (Circular Economy Strategy) - This document which presents the Council’s strategic approach to circular economy tCO₂e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent) - A standard unit for measuring carbon footprints. It expresses the impact of different greenhouse gases in terms of the amount of CO₂ that would have the same global warming effect. DRS (Deposit Return Scheme) - A recycling system where consumers pay a small deposit on drinks containers, which is refunded when the container is returned for recycling. pEPR (Planned Extended Producer Responsibility) A policy approach where producers are given significant responsibility—financial and/or physical—for the treatment or disposal of post-consumer products, especially packaging. TCS (Transformation and Change Strategy) – The Council’s Transformation programme for improving the efficiency and impact of our services and systems. PaaS (Product as a Service) - A business model where customers pay for the use of a product rather than owning it outright. This encourages manufacturers to design longer- lasting, repairable, and recyclable products, supporting a circular economy. HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) - A large vehicle used for transporting goods, typically over 3.5 tonnes in weight. These are often targeted in emissions reduction strategies due to their high fuel consumption. Page 231 of 240
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4 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL APPENDIX A Detailed overview of national policy landscape Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan 2010 Scotland’s Zero Waste plan was published in 2010 to ‘create a stable framework to provide confidence for the investment necessary to deliver a zero waste Scotland over the next 10 years.’ The Zero Waste Plan recognised that a zero waste Scotland has an important role in helping to achieve the targets set in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 to reduce Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions. The Plan set the following specific targets to work towards delivering zero waste at a local level: recycle 60% of household waste by 2020, progressing to 65% municipal waste by 2035, in line with EU targets recycling 70% of all waste (includes commercial & industrial) by 2025 a ban on biodegradable waste going to landfill (the implementation date of the ban was previously 2021 which has now been postponed until the end of 2025). no more than 5% of waste going to landfill by 2025. Page 232 of 240
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5 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Scotland’s Progress on Zero Waste Plan 2010 Page 233 of 240
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6 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Scotland’s Climate Change Plan 2018 - 2032 Scotland’s Climate Change Plan was published in 2018 and updated in 2020 to account for new and ambitious targets set by the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019. The 2019 Act introduced new emissions reductions targets for 2020, 2030 and 2040 of 56%, 75% and 90% respectively against 1990 levels, and set the date for net zero emissions by 2045. The Plan recognises that there is still a significant challenge ahead in meeting these ambitious emissions reduction targets. In 2020, emissions in the sector were around 1.9 megatonnes per year; with the aim of reducing these emissions to 1.2 megatonnes by 2025, and 0.8 megatonnes by 2030.8 Chapter 5 of the Plan focuses on Waste and the Circular Economy, with the vision: “… that by 2045 Scotland’s cultural, social and business norms will be driven by a focus on: Responsible Consumption, where people and businesses demand products and services in ways which respect the limits of our natural resources. Unnecessary waste, in particular food waste, will be unacceptable in Scotland. Responsible Production, where a circular economy is embraced by the businesses and organisations that supply products, ensuring the maximum life and value from the natural resources used to make them. Maximising Value from Waste and Energy, where the environmental and economic value of wasted resources and energy is harnessed efficiently”. Scottish Government. (2020). Update to the Climate Change Plan 2018 – 2032 Securing a Green Recovery on a Path to Net Zero. Page 234 of 240
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7 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL To achieve this vision, Scotland’s Climate Change Plan sets several actions relating to Waste and the Circular Economy: Action Action areas Building the Circular Economy Tourism and hospitality Intensifying work with industry and businesses Setting the framework for planning policy to reflect new opportunities arising from a shift towards a circular economy (supporting development which reflects the waste hierarchy, prioritising the reduction and reuse of materials) Driving down food waste Delivering Scotland’s Food Waste Reduction Action Plan Reducing food waste by one third against a 2013 baseline by 2025 Considering a mandatory national food waste reduction target and mandatory reporting of Scotland’s food surplus and waste by food businesses Page 235 of 240
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8 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Reducing waste sent to landfill Ending landfill of biodegradable municipal waste by 2025, reducing the percentage of all waste sent to landfill to 5% by 2025 and recycling 70% of all waste by 2025 Investing £70 million to improve local recycling collection infrastructure Evaluating the Household Recycling Charter and reviewing its Code of Practice Consulting on requirements to separately collect garden waste (by 2023), textiles and hazardous elements of household waste Extending the forthcoming ban on sending biodegradable municipal waste to landfill to include biodegradable non- municipal wastes Improving waste data Developing and implementing an electronic waste tracking system Reducing emissions from closed landfill sites Accelerating landfill gas capture and landfill legacy management by scaling up the existing landfill gas capture programme to mitigate the negative effects of landfill and the environmental impact of closed landfill sites Promoting efficiency of energy from waste plants Consider measures to ensure new energy from waste plants are more efficient and how waste infrastructure can be ‘future-proofed’ for carbon capture and storage Page 236 of 240
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9 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Encouraging reprocessing investment Through the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), explore options that will unlock reprocessing investments, including pricing and incentive schemes, to create jobs and a ready supply of recycled material for new packaging Preventing waste Banning problematic single use items Packaging reform through the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime Environmental charging measures (for example single use disposable cups) to encourage people to shift toward reusable products and to encourage more sustainable consumption Increase fiscal incentives for producers and consumers to reduce waste and move up the waste hierarchy (for example DRS, EPR and charge on single use cups). Develop a post-2025 route map to identify how the waste and resources sector will contribute towards Scotland’s journey towards net zero in the period to 2030 and beyond. Page 237 of 240
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10 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation was published in 2022 with the vision to: The Circular Economy is identified within the strategy as an area of new market opportunity for the wellbeing economy - ‘generating new, well-paid jobs from a just transition to net zero – where resources are kept in high-value use, creating new market, innovation and job opportunities that will be key to achieving our targets for net zero and nature’. Such opportunity has potential for ensuring fair access to resources for all, more sustainable ref check business practices, and promoting community wellbeing through inclusive and sustainable policies and practices. 9 Another opportunity area identified within the Strategy is the adoption of a Community Wealth Building (CWB) approach to promote local economic development through more productive and innovative businesses, industries, regions, communities and public services - using public and private investment through procurement and other means to create new employment opportunities, help local businesses to expand, and place more assets in the hands of local people and communities. Shifting to a circular economy has the potential to significantly enhance CWB, for example through keeping resources and wealth within the community by promoting materials recycling and reuse alongside sustainable business models, supporting local businesses and social enterprises whilst providing local employment through more local production and consumption, and creating new jobs and skills opportunities related to recycling, repair, sustainable manufacturing, innovative sustainable practices and technologies.10 “Create a wellbeing economy: a society that is thriving across economic, social and environmental dimensions, and that delivers prosperity for all Scotland’s people and places.” Scottish Government. (2022). Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation Page 238 of 240
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11 Circular Economy Strategy Consultation September/October 2025 PKC - GENERAL Strategic Environmental Assessment In accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 (due to the Waste related nature of the proposed strategy), a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Scoping Report has been prepared to assess the effects of the proposed strategy on the environment. The scoping report will be sent to the SEA Consultation Authorities (SEPA, NatureScot and Historic Environment Scotland) in July to allow for adequate consultation and feedback in-line with statutory SEA timelines. Feedback with be considered when preparing the final strategy, alongside the preparation of an SEA Environmental Report towards the end of 2025. Equality and Fairness Assessment Under the Equality Act 2010, the Council is required to eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, and foster good relations between equality groups. Under Part 1 of the Act ‘The Fairer Scotland Duty’, the Council is required to actively consider how it can reduce inequalities of outcome caused by socioeconomic disadvantage, when making strategic decisions. The Council’s Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) process ensures all significant Council strategies have as a minimum an EFIA screening inbuilt as part of the risk assessment process. A screening assessment will be undertaken prior to submission of the CE strategy to Committee for approval. If any positive or negative impacts are highlighted, a full EFIA will be undertaken in consultation. Page 239 of 240
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