Agenda Document Pack - Climate Change and Sustainability Committee - 14/08/2024
South Lanarkshire Council · 14 August 2024
Back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee — 14 August 2024 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 06 August 2024 Dear Councillor Climate Change and Sustainability Committee The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the above Committee to be held as follows:- Date: Wednesday, 14 August 2024 Time: 10:00 Venue: Hybrid - Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton, ML3 0AA The business to be considered at the meeting is listed overleaf. Yours sincerely Paul Manning Chief Executive Members Kirsten Robb (Depute Chair), Joe Fagan (ex officio), Alex Allison, John Anderson, Ralph Barker, Maureen Chalmers, Ross Clark, Margaret Cooper, Colin Dewar, Ross Gowland, Lynsey Hamilton, Gavin Keatt, Ross Lambie, Richard Lockhart, Katy Loudon, Julia Marrs, Monique McAdams, Lesley McDonald, Elaine McDougall, Mark McGeever, Carol Nugent, Mo Razzaq, John Ross, Graham Scott, Bert Thomson, Helen Toner, Margaret B Walker, Kirsty Williams Substitutes Walter Brogan, Robert Brown, Andy Carmichael, Gerry Convery, Poppy Corbett, Andrea Cowan, Allan Falconer, Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Elise Frame, Geri Gray, Martin Hose, Richard Nelson, David Watson 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee held on 15 May 2024 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 3 - 8 Item(s) for Noting 3 Social Vulnerability amid Just Transition in South Lanarkshire Presentation by Sage Kuhens, PHD Student Monitoring Item(s) 4 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Action Plan 2023/2024 Q4 Progress Report Report dated 25 July 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 9 - 68 Item(s) for Decision 5 2024/2025 Action Plan for Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Report dated 25 July 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 69 - 92 Item(s) for Noting 6 Glasgow City Council - Model for Climate Investment Report dated 25 July 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 93 - 96 Urgent Business 7 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Susan Somerville Clerk Telephone: 07557 323097 Clerk Email: susan.somerville@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 2
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CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 15 May 2024 Chair: Councillor Mark McGeever Councillors Present: Councillor Alex Allison, Councillor John Anderson, Councillor Ralph Barker, Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Margaret Cooper, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Ross Lambie, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Katy Loudon, Councillor Julia Marrs, Councillor Lesley McDonald, Councillor Elaine McDougall, Councillor Carol Nugent, Councillor Mo Razzaq, Councillor Kirsten Robb (Depute), Councillor John Ross, Councillor Graham Scott, Councillor Bert Thomson, Councillor Helen Toner, Councillor Margaret B Walker, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Joe Fagan (ex officio), Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, Councillor Monique McAdams Attending: Community and Enterprise Resources D Booth, Executive Director; A Brown, Head of Enterprise and Sustainable Development; C Park, Head of Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services; K McCafferty, Sustainable Development Officer (Funding); A Wallace, Sustainability Adviser; M Wilkie, Performance and Policy Development Manager Finance and Corporate Resources K McLeod, Administration Assistant; S Somerville, Administration Manager Housing and Technical Resources G McParland, Property Manager (Assets and Estates); J Read, Strategy and Policy Advisor; J Smith, Strategy Team Leader (Built Environment); S Turner, Section Leader (Legislative) 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee held on 28 February 2024 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 3 Good Food Strategy Update – Q4 2023/2024 A report dated 24 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted on the Good Food Strategy actions and measures at Quarter 4 of 2023/2024. 2 3
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The Good Food Strategy had been approved by the Executive Committee on 4 December 2019 and covered a 5 year period from 2020 to 2025. It set out outcomes and actions organised around 6 key themes as follows:- good food at home and in the community good food growing good food in the public sector good food for the environment good food economy good food governance The Good Food Strategy contained an action plan which set out specific actions to progress the objectives in the Strategy. It contained 22 performance measures towards the Strategy’s outcomes, together with 17 improvement actions. The measures were rated using a traffic light system of green, amber or red, while the improvement actions were rated using green, amber or red as well as blue, which indicated that an action had been completed. Of the 22 measures within the Strategy:- 12 had been achieved or were on course to be achieved (green) 10 would be reported later when data was available Of the 17 improvement actions within the Strategy:- 4 actions were complete (blue) 12 had been achieved or were on course to be achieved (green) 1 had minor slippage against timescale or minor shortfall against target (amber) No measures or improvement actions had seen major slippage against timescale or major shortfall against target. Progress on all objectives, actions and measures was detailed in Appendix 1 of the report. Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. The Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) gave an undertaking to respond to members’ questions in relation to:- what the Council’s percentage spend was on Fairtrade products what checks were undertaken to ensure allotments were utilised and details of contractual arrangements put in place the frequency of checks to ensure food businesses were compliant with food safety statutory requirements The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 28 February 2024 (Paragraph 4)] Councillors Cooper and Dewar joined the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 4 Carbon Management Interim Update 2023/2024 A report dated 24 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted providing an update on the mid-year position with respect to South Lanarkshire Council’s carbon emissions for 2023/2024. The Scottish Government had set climate targets within legislation to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions Scotland-wide by 75% by 2030, 90% by 2040 and a total reduction from the 1990 baseline by 2045. 4
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Following the Scotland’s Climate Change Committee’s annual report indicating that the Scottish Government would not meet its statutory 2030 goal to reduce emissions by 75%, the Scottish Government had announced that the 2030 target and annual carbon targets would be replaced with a system measuring emissions every 5 years. To align the Council’s carbon management reporting with the Public Sector Climate Change Duties Compliance report, going forward all Council carbon management related reports would categorise the Council’s corporate emissions as Scope 1 (direct emissions), Scope 2 (energy indirect) or Scope 3 (other direct emissions). Figure 1, at paragraph 4.2 of the report, provided an overview of the scope of the Council’s carbon footprint and which category those aligned with. The Council’s interim 2023/2024 carbon emissions from April to September 2023 were detailed and compared with the same corresponding period for 2022/2023. Those figures demonstrated that an overall reduction of 4.49% had been achieved so far for 2023/2024 Scope 1 to 3 emissions, and 8.08% had been achieved for Scope 1 emissions. The reasons for those reductions were detailed. Discussions had taken place across Resources to establish achievable carbon reduction targets for 2024/2025. Based on the information, it was proposed that a percentage reduction target was not set for 2024/2025 and, instead, the Council should continue to aim to reduce as much as possible compared with the previous year. While the Council had a zero direct emissions target by 2038, it did not have a route map in place to achieve this target. This route map was now being developed and a series of reports would be produced which would form the basis for it. In addition, it was expected that the new Climate Intelligence Service (CIS) would provide a joint approach to councils meeting Scotland’s national commitment to net zero by 2045. Furthermore, the Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service was looking to undertake a feasibility study on energy and income generating opportunities for the Council through renewable technologies. Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: that the mid-year position in relation to the Council’s carbon emissions for the year 2023/2024, as detailed in paragraph 5.2 of the report, be noted. Councillor Toner joined the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 5 Non-Domestic Buildings - Net Zero Feasibilities A report dated 24 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an update on:- the outcome of 7 feasibility studies, conducted to assess the investment required to achieve national net zero standards for the Council’s primary school and wet leisure estate the estimate of total capital investment required to meet national net zero standards for the council’s non-domestic property estate based on the outcome of the feasibility studies 5
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Through the proposed Heat in Building’s Bill, currently under development, the Scottish Government intended to legislate for non-domestic buildings in the public sector to be using clean heating systems by the end of 2038. This meant that no Council building would be permitted to burn fossil fuels to generate energy for heating or hot water systems. Currently, just under 300 of the Council’s non-domestic properties were heated using fossil fuels. To better understand the practical challenges and financial implications from this proposed legislation, Housing and Technical Resources undertook a range of feasibility studies across the Council’s non-domestic estate, aiming to quantify what would be required to achieve net zero within those building types. Four primary schools and 3 wet leisure properties were selected, with the intention to cover a range of build contractor, geographical location and year of construction. In total, those property types accounted for approximately 48% of carbon emissions from all the Council’s non housing buildings. Table 2 in the report provided a summary of the outcomes, combining the results for all 4 schools. Table 3 combined the results for the 3 wet leisure facilities. This suggested that significant energy and carbon reductions could be achieved by investing in the measures identified in Table 1 in sequence. However, operational cost reductions, which would typically be used to financially appraise investment decisions, were far less significant. The findings from those 7 feasibility studies were extrapolated across the Council’s non housing estate to estimate the level of investment required to transition those properties towards net zero. The result of this exercise suggested around £927 million of capital investment would be required at 2023 prices for the existing non-housing portfolio. The Council had a fabric first approach to improving the energy efficiency of its non-domestic buildings which aimed to reduce energy consumption, leading to reduced operating costs and lower carbon emissions. Due to the capital costs and running cost increases from currently available clean heating systems, the Council did not have a programme for the replacement of its fossil fuel system across its non-domestic estate at present. The outcomes of the feasibility studies and modelling for the council’s other non-domestic properties would be incorporated into the South Lanarkshire Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy, subject to approval at Executive Committee on 26 June 2024. Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the outcome from the feasibility studies completed be noted; (2) that it be noted that, based on the outcome of the feasibility studies, the updated estimate of total capital investment that would be required to achieve national net zero standards was £927million; (3) that it be noted that the Scottish Government intended to legislate that all non-domestic buildings in the public sector should be using clean heating systems by 2038 which would require the Council to replace fossil fuel heating systems at around 300 properties; and (4) that the Council’s existing fabric first approach around retrofit investment decisions be noted. 6
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6 Energy Demand Reduction Plan Update A report dated 24 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an update on the work undertaken to date on the development of an Energy Demand Reduction Plan, contained within the motion approved by the Council on 7 December 2022 entitled ‘Cut Fuel Bills, Cut Carbon Emissions, Kick Start the Green Economy’. An analysis of the total energy use in the non-domestic estate was undertaken which identified the properties with the highest energy consumption. Leisure facilities, secondary schools, homes for the elderly and nursery schools were omitted from the exercise for various reasons, as outlined in the report. Following the analysis, where it was safe to do so, a temperature reduction of 1C was implemented in buildings. In order to test the concept, a pilot had commenced in 30 buildings across the Council’s non- domestic buildings estate to monitor the energy consumption over a 6-month period prior to rolling out to other facilities. An update was provided on action taken on the following areas: energy champions energy audits vacant properties Central Energy Efficiency Fund It was also intended:- that the heating season be reduced to commence from 1 October and run until 31 March each year, however, this would be weather dependent that the current pilot be extended to identify an Energy Champion on each site with responsibility for ensuring that energy use was limited, where possible, and promoting changes in behaviour to work with teachers and pupils on school sites regarding education on energy use to develop a staff behavioural change programme in relation to energy awareness to engage with IT Services to ensure that PC shutdown software was in place across the Council’s estate to ensure continuous monitoring and management of energy use Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report, including communications and promotion of practical tips to save energy. The Committee decided: (1) that the update on progress made to date on the Energy Demand Reduction Plan and the proposed action going forward be noted; and (2) that the actions detailed in Appendix 1 of the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 14 June 2023 (Paragraph 3) and Minutes of South Lanarkshire Council of 7 December 2022 (Paragraph 16)] Councillor Toner left the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 7
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7 Scottish Government Consultations on the Social Housing Net Zero Standard in Scotland and Heat in Buildings Bill A report dated 25 April 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing:- an overview of 2 recent Scottish Government consultations on a proposed new net zero standard for social housing and the new Heat in Buildings Bill a summary of the Council’s response to the consultations, submitted to the Scottish Government on 8 March 2024 In 2021, the Scottish Government published a Heat in Buildings Strategy which committed to:- review the existing standards for improving energy efficiency within social housing across Scotland introduce new legislation to phase out the need to install new or replacement fossil fuel boilers across all domestic and non-domestic buildings in Scotland, while also requiring building owners to improve the energy efficiency of buildings to help achieve net zero targets Consultations on each of those commitments were launched by the Scottish Government in early 2024 and an overview and summary of the Council’s responses to both was provided. An officer responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the overview of the consultations on the proposed new net zero standard for social housing and Heat in Buildings Bill be noted; and (2) that the summary of the Council’s response to each consultation be noted. 8 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 8
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 14 August 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Action Plan: Quarter 4 Progress Report 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to: - [ present the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Quarter 4 Progress Report 2023/2024, for the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. 2. Recommendations 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Action Plan Quarter 4 Progress Report 2023/2024 be noted. 3. Background 3.1. The Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-27 was approved by the Council on 15 June 2022. The Strategy sets out how the Council aims to develop sustainably and tackle the climate change emergency over a five-year period, whilst also providing a broad strategic direction for longer term planning to help deliver on the agreed outcomes and contribute to achieving a longer-term vision. 3.2. The Action Plan for 2022-2027 was approved at the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2023. 3.3. Progress against these actions is monitored using IMPROVe and reported to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee at Quarter 2 and Quarter 4 each year. 3.4. Delivery of actions within the strategy and associated action plan provides the main focus for the sustainable development activity and also enables the Council to fulfil its duties under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 2003, the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 and the Council’s contribution to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. 3.5. Progress on all objectives, actions and measures as at Quarter 4 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024 is set out in Appendix 1. All data and comments included in the appendix are correct as of 10 July 2024. 4 9
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4. Sustainable Development Strategy 2022-2027 Quarter 4 Update 4.1. The Action Plan progress report comes in two parts; the first part contains performance/contextual measures towards the Strategy’s outcomes, and the second part contains improvement actions for each of the themes within the Strategy. 4.2. Part One - Performance Measures The overall summary of performance measures at the end of Quarter 4 is as follows: Total number of performance/ contextual measures 21 Status – Green The timescale or target has been met as per expectations. 4 Status – Amber There has been minor slippage against timescale or minor shortfall against target. 0 Status - Red There has been major slippage against timescale or major shortfall against target. 1 Reportable at a later stage For some measures, the statistics are not yet available to allow us to report whether the target has been reached or not. These will be reported when available 3 Contextual The contextual measures provide a health check for South Lanarkshire. The Council’s activities contribute to these measures, however there are many factors that could influence these measures which are not fully within the Council’s scope. 13 4.3. Areas for Improvement There was one measure marked as ‘red’ (major slippage) for 2023/24, relating to percentage of household waste recycled, which remains below target of 50%. Performance against this measure will continue to be monitored. No ‘amber’ (minor slippage) actions were reported in 2023/24. Three measures are reportable at a later stage. Two of these are because of delays in the receipt of survey data from participants and external organisations, updates are expected later this year; and the third is due to changes in data reporting from the Scottish Government. Further justification for delays, and associated management actions, is included within Appendix 1. 4.4. Part Two – Improvement Actions Total number of improvement actions 111 Status - Blue Action Complete 27 Status – Green The timescale or target has been met as per expectations 70 Status – Amber There has been minor slippage against timescale or minor shortfall against target 11 Status - Red There has been major slippage against timescale or major shortfall against target 2 Reportable at a later stage For some measures, the statistics are not yet available to allow us to report whether the target has been reached or not. These will be reported when available 1 10
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4.5. Areas for Improvement There were two measures marked as ‘red’ at Quarter 4. These relate to the development of the business case for demonstrator Internet of Things projects (still to be considered); and the provision of up-skilling and reskilling opportunities to meet the needs of the transition to a green economy (there was a refocus on both increasing earnings from employment for parents and on the care sector). There are eleven ‘amber’ actions with minor slippage in 2023/2024. In the case of nine of these actions, there has been a revision of timescales for the delivery of associated workplans, strategies, and legislation. For the remaining two actions, which relate to the use of ultra-low carbon vehicles for Education related travel, there has been limited availability of the required electric vehicle technology for school bus provision. One action was marked as ‘Reportable at a later stage’ this relates to the introduction of the Deposit return Scheme in schools (delayed pending Scottish Government legislation). Further explanation for these delays, and associated management actions, is included within Appendix 1. 4.6. Key Highlights Progress on all objectives, actions and measures is set out in Appendix 1. Some of the key achievements for Q4, are noted below: 1.5% of household waste was sent to landfill in 2023/24 – well below the target of <10% The Lanark air quality management area was revoked in February 2024 as a result of air quality objectives having been successfully met; similarly, Whirlies and Rutherglen air quality management areas are showing signs of improved air quality The next phase of the East Kilbride Active Travel network on Churchill Avenue and part of Cornwall Street was completed, with Active Travel Plans for part of the Clydesdale area concluded (and priority routes for future active travel infrastructure identified) An EV infrastructure Expansion Plan and Strategy has been developed identifying the future requirement for charging infrastructure within SLC. A number of bus and rail infrastructure improvements have been undertaken (as listed in Appendix 1) A number of flood protection projects / studies have been undertaken in 2023/24 (as listed in Appendix 1) A detailed analysis of the open space audit has been completed by consultants and draft technical report submitted The Council’s Biodiversity Strategy and the Biodiversity Duty Implementation Plan was approved by the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2024 An update on the delivery of the Litter Strategy Action plan was presented to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in September 2023 along with a review of the Action Plan for the coming year; and an annual rural roads clear-up programme was undertaken resulting in nine tonnes of discarded waste collected over 30 days, clearing more than 77 miles of roads and verges There was a slight reduction in the amount of glysophate used to control weeds in 2023; and we piloted the use of Aquateck cleaning solution in schools leading to the roll out across all 17 high schools Shared Prosperity Fund was used to help ensure a just transition to net zero in 2023/24 funding: £75,000 of Climate Emergency and Resilience Grants to community groups, the development of Extend PLUS which will facilitate carbon reporting for SMEs across the Glasgow City Region; and Employment Land and 11
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Market Analysis in East Kilbride to assess the need for, and feasibility of, energy investments 45 schools currently hold Green Flag awards, an increase of 10 schools from the previous year; Green Flag accreditation was also successfully retained for Strathaven park, Cambuslang Park and Castlebank Park Chatelherault allotment site opened in summer 2023, with an increase of 64 plot holders. Jump app has been introduced in four secondary schools - this includes sustainable targets for pupils and staff with monthly prizes; following the success of the COS2 (Conference of Schools) event, planning is underway for a COS3 event A new SLC Climate Change and Sustainability Officers Group has been set up to support the work of the Climate Change and Sustainability Steering Group. Climate Change Learn online modules have been completed by 1,416 employees since being introduced in 2023 Regular articles and good news stories have been prepared and shared across Council social media, including coverage of the Climate and Nature event hosted in October 2023 by the Community planning Partnership, the Council’s roll out of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and the impact of projects funded through the council-managed Renewable Energy Fund A Sustainability Impact Assessment process has been developed and implemented for the Council’s Capital and Revenue Programmes 5. Employee Implications 5.1. All Resources are required to contribute to the implementation of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy to ensure that actions and targets are met. Officers within the Sustainable Development and Climate Change team monitor and report the Council’s progress, however there are officers from all Resources who have responsibility for updating and owning the actions noted within the IMPROVe action plan. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. The actions detailed in the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy and associated action plan are funded from existing Resource budgets, however the scale and pace of action needed to meet climate change targets and address the current climate crisis will require significant capital investment and is likely to require external funding and investment. The delivery of the Strategy may help leverage for additional funding and investment; however alternative financing models are also being explored. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. The Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy contributes towards the Public Sector Climate Change Duties, the Biodiversity Duty, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 8. Other Implications 8.1. The Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy has been assessed as part of the Council’s risk management arrangements and relevant issues have been added to the Resource Risk Registers. 9. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. An Equality Impact Assessment and Fairer Scotland Duty impact assessment have been carried out on the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy. 12
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9.2. Public and stakeholder consultation was undertaken during the development of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 25 July 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Ambitious, self-aware and improving Fair, open and sustainable Priorities We will work to put people first and reduce inequality We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Outcomes Our children and young people thrive Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities People live the healthiest lives possible Inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Previous References South Lanarkshire Council report on 15 June 2022 entitled ‘Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027’ Climate Change and Sustainability Committee report on 31 August 2022 entitled ‘Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027’ Climate Change and Sustainability Committee report on 28 February 2024 entitled ‘Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Action Plan: Quarter 2 Progress Report’ List of Background Papers The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2017-2022 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Adam Wallace, Sustainability Adviser Email: adam.wallace@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 13
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on 6 Aug 12:32 Quarter 4 : 2023/24 - April to March Appendix 1 Performance Report 4 15
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on 6 Aug 12:32 Page 2 of 3 16
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on 6 Aug 12:3217
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on 6 Aug 12:32 Summary (Section 1) - number of Quantitative Measures green, amber and red under each Sustainable Development Theme Sustainable Development Theme Green Amber Red Report later / Contextual Total People 1 0 0 3 4 Place and Communities 0 0 0 13 13 Natural Environment (Planet) 2 0 0 0 2 A Green Economy (Planet) 1 0 1 0 2 Total 4 0 1 16 21 Summary (Section 2) - number of Improvement Actions complete, green, amber and red under each Sustainable Development Theme Sustainable Development Theme Complete Green Amber Red Report later Total People 14 9 3 0 0 26 Place and Communities 10 36 4 1 0 51 Natural Environment (Planet) 2 6 3 0 0 11 A Green Economy (Planet) 1 19 1 1 1 23 Total 27 70 11 2 1 111 Page 1 of 51 18
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy - Section 1: Performance Measures The following section provides performance and contextual measures for each of the themes in the strategy. The performance measures highlights progress towards each of the outcomes. The contextual measures provide a health check; however, these are not fully in the scope of influence for the Council. Page 2 of 51 19
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures People Contribute to improving health and wellbeing through environmental protection and access to environmental benefits for all Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Number of Environmental Volunteering days There are still some data returns outstanding which could increase this figure. Any increase in the full year figure will be reported by end of September 2024. Report Later 2,000 1,890 2,380 4,168 5,212 Progress climate justice and ensure the transition to net-zero by 2045 does not exacerbate poverty or inequalities Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Fuel poverty percentage in South Lanarkshire Source data for this measure is no longer available as the data is no longer broken down to local authority level following removal of this indicator from the Scottish Household Condition Survey in 2020. The last reported figure of 22% derives from the 2020 Scottish Household Condition Survey. Measure has been removed from 2024/25 action plan. Contextual 20.0% ------ 22.0% 22.0% ------ Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate emergency across South Lanarkshire Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Number of council employees who have completed the Learn on Line Climate Change modules Since introduction the Climate Change Learn on Line modules have been completed by 1,416 employees. Contextual ------ 1,416 ------ ------ 1,354 Encourage schools to achieve eco school status Schools continue to be encouraged to achieve Eco Schools status through attainment of Green Flag awards. Participating schools are informed about overviews and opportunities via X (Twitter) and through monthly newsletters available to staff via SLC’s 'The Feed'. Since September 2023, 16 establishments have received a Green Flag award through the Eco Schools programme – for 2 of these establishments this was their first Green Flag and for 14 establishments they achieved an additional Green Flag award. Updates from Keep Scotland Beautiful show that South Lanarkshire has 45 establishments who hold current Green Flags. Green ------ 45 ------ ------ 35 Place and Communities Page 3 of 51 20
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Proportion of journeys made by foot in South Lanarkshire 13% of journeys were made by foot in South Lanarkshire in 2022, compared to 22.6% nationally. Where a journey involves more than one mode of transport (e.g. a bus, then a train), the main mode is defined as the one used for the longest stage (in distance). Figures reported here are taken from Transport Scotland’s 'Transport and Travel in Scotland' document published in February 2024 using data from the Scottish Household Survey 2022. Contextual ------ 13.0% ------ ------ ------ Percentage of trips being made by bike In South Lanarkshire 0% of journeys were made by cycle in 2022. Nationally this figure was 1.7%. Note: where a journey involves more than one mode of transport (e.g. a bus, then a train) the main mode is defined as the one used for the longest stage (in distance). (Figures taken from Transport Scotland’s Transport and Travel in Scotland document published in February 2022 using data from the Scottish Household Survey 2022. Data is influenced by small sample size used due to Covid 19 pandemic impacts). Contextual ------ 0.0% ------ ------ ------ Proportion of journeys that are made by bus and rail In South Lanarkshire 6% of journeys were made by bus and rail in 2022. Nationally this figure was 8.1%. Note: where a journey involves more than one mode of transport (e.g. a bus, then a train), the main mode is defined as the one used for the longest stage (in distance). (Figures taken from Transport Scotland’s Transport and Travel in Scotland document published in February 2024 using data from the Scottish Household Survey 2022 – Local Authority Table 16 - Main Mode of Travel). Contextual ------ 6.0% ------ ------ ------ Page 4 of 51 21
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Mode share of school children traveling by active or public transport (Annual national 'Hands Up' Survey) In South Lanarkshire, 60.1% of children travelled to school by active or public transport during 2023 (excluding nursery). 37.7% walked, 3.5% cycled, 2.7% travelled by scooter/skate and 16.2% travelled by bus. Nationally, in 2023 65.7% of school children travelled by active or public transport. Figures reported here are taken from Sustrans Annual National Hands Up Survey published in May 2024 using data from 2023. Contextual ------ 60.1% 59.8% 59.0% 59.9% Mode share of adults traveling to work or education by active or public transport (Scottish Household Survey) In South Lanarkshire, 28% of adults travelled to work by active or public transport in 2022 (10% walked, 1% cycled, 6% travelled by bus and 11% travelled by rail). Nationally this figure was 29.4%. (Figures taken from Transport Scotland’s Transport and Travel in Scotland document published in February 2024 using data from the Scottish Household Survey 2022 - Local Authority Table 1 - Employed adults (aged 16+) not working from home - usual method of travel to work) Contextual ------ 28.0% 21.0% 24.0% 24.0% Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Carbon emissions in tonnage for South Lanarkshire: emissions within scope of Local Authority. (figures from BEIS with a 2-year lag) Annual data is published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (previously BEIS). It has a two-year lag. Data for 2022 will be included in the quarter two update for 2024-25. Contextual ------ ------ 1,263.2 1,203.9 ------ Percentage reduction on area-wide emissions compared to previous year: emissions within scope of Local Authority (figures from BEIS with a 2-year lag) Annual data is published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (previously BEIS). These figures have a two year lag. Area-wide emissions increased by 10% in calendar year 2021 compared to 2020. Figures for that period had been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Data for 2022 will be included in the quarter two update for 2024-25. Contextual ------ ------ -9.2% 10.0% ------ Per capita: emission within scope of Local Authority (figures from BEIS with a 2-year lag) Annual data is published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (previously BEIS). These figures have a two year lag. Data for 2022 will be included in the quarter two update for 2024-25. Contextual ------ ------ 3.40 3.70 ------ Page 5 of 51 22
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Achieve zero direct emissions from Council operations (buildings and fleet fossil fuels) by 2038 The council’s direct carbon emissions (32,869 carbon tonnes) for financial year 2022-23 reduced by 2.3% compared with baseline year 2019-20. Data for 2023-24 will be included in the quarter two update for 2024-25. Contextual ------ ------ ------ ------ 32,869.0 Reduce indirect emissions from Council carbon footprint (electricity, household waste and staff travel) The council’s indirect carbon emissions for financial year 2022-23 (20,685 carbon tonnes) reduced by 38% compared with baseline year 2019-20. Data for 2023-24 will be included in the quarter two update for 2024-25. Contextual ------ ------ ------ ------ 20,685.0 Occurrence/reduction of flood events In 2023, across three gauged locations, there was an average of 905mm of rainfall, including 3 days with rainfall in excess of 20mm. During this year there were 737 recorded flooding incidents across South Lanarkshire, a reduction from 1054 in 2022. Contextual ------ 737 1,214 705 1,054 Percentage of Council dwellings that are meeting the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH 2032) The 2025 and 2032 EESSH Milestones have been suspended as the Scottish Government are reviewing the EESSH2 standards to strengthen and realign the standard with the target for net zero heat in houses from 2045. Report Later ------ ------ 93.88% 98.64% ------ Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Increase in the overall number of food growing participants on Council land including schools, care homes, housing area and areas managed by community groups or third-party organisations We have experienced difficulty in securing responses to the food growing survey this year from external organisations, however we expect further returns in the coming months which will evidence increase in number of food growing participants. Cuningar Allotment site is currently under construction and will be handed over to Amenity Services in early Autumn 2024, increasing the overall number of allotment plots and food growing participants. The total number of recorded food growing participants on Council land is currently 1,065. Report Later 5% 0% ------ ------ ------ Natural Environment (Planet) Page 6 of 51 23
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Performance Measures Natural Environment (Planet) Improve the availability and access to quality outdoor spaces and services Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Percentage of streets found to be acceptable during Litter Monitoring System Survey Percentage of streets found to be acceptable via Litter Monitoring Systems Surveys is 92% meeting the target for the year. Green 92.0% 92.0% 94.1% 92.1% 92.3% Retain Green Flag accreditation at Strathaven Park, Cambuslang Park and Castlebank Park Green Flag accreditation was successfully retained for all three parks in 2023. Action plans are being developed for all three parks in 2024 this year. Green 3 3 3 3 3 A Green Economy (Planet) Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and selling of local goods and services Performance Indicators Comments/ Progress Status 2021/22 2022/232020/21Target To Date -------- Last 3 Years --------------------- This Year ------------- Percentage of total household waste that is recycled This measure is reported per calendar year. The year to date figure to the right reflects performance from January to December 2023 (43.75%). This remains below the target of 50%. Performance in October to December 2023 (38.71%) was an improvement on the same quarter in 2022 (37.75%). The new bulky waste contract continues to increase the quantities of bulky waste being recycled. Performance will continue to be closely monitored. Red 50.00% 43.75% 40.50% 41.50% 41.20% Percentage of household waste sent to landfill This measure is reported per calendar year and the latest figures relate to the period from January to December 2023 (1.50%). This remains well below the target to stay under 10%. Performance in October to December 2023 (1.61%) is lower (better) than the same quarter in 2022 (2.07%). Green 10.0% 1.5% 9.7% 8.7% 1.8% Page 7 of 51 24
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy - Section 2: Improvement Actions The following section provides improvement actions that contribute towards meeting the outcomes in each theme for this financial year. Page 8 of 51 25
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Contribute to improving health and wellbeing through environmental protection and access to environmental benefits for all Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Safeguard health by improving air quality Implement grant funded air quality measures during 2023-24 to support the Air Quality Action Plan and continue to maintain and publicise both real time and historical air quality monitoring results. The Lanark air quality management area was revoked in February 2024 as air quality objectives had been successfully met. Further work has commenced on reviewing the remaining two air quality management areas at the Whirlies and Rutherglen. Study findings of measured particulate matter levels show they have been successfully brought to below air quality objectives indicating improved air quality. A review of South Lanarkshire Council's Air Quality Action Plan has been undertaken and formal consultation is about to commence. Engine idling campaign work continues with a focus on idling outside schools. This work is funded through Scottish Government grant funding. Action planning work is also ongoing with EcoStars, BetterPoints - Think, Move, Breathe, WALKCYCLE4AIR, Beat the Street (Clydesdale), Waymarking signage project in east Kilbride and Walk to School projects. All being supported through grant funding. Green Identify and manage contaminated land within the statutory regulatory framework Implement the Contaminated Land Strategy and support the Planning Authority in relation to development applications Work continues in relation to sites with historical contamination issues linked to previous land use. Contamination legacy issues have been found in various sites. The review of site investigations, remediation proposals, as well as final verification of remediation works, form part of the work to ensure that sites with contamination issues are identified and any contamination issues addressed. The overarching ambition to bring such sites into sustainable and beneficial use. Green Incorporate the risk of heat and overheating in the corporate risk Include the risk of heat and overheating in the corporate severe weather scorecard with relevant mitigation measures Top risk for adverse weather has been updated to include heat and overheating within the corporate severe weather scorecard. Updated as at 2023/2024 review. Complete Page 9 of 51 26
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Contribute to improving health and wellbeing through environmental protection and access to environmental benefits for all Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status register Ensure that heat and overheating is incorporated in each Resource's risk scorecard All relevant Resources have been instructed to include heat and overheating within risk scorecard. Complete Promote healthy and local sustainable food including Fairtrade products to Council employees and South Lanarkshire residents Support campaigns promoting healthy and local sustainable food and share good practices. National campaigns from the national Love Food Hate Waste initiative and promoting food waste reduction were shared on Council social media. Green Continue to administer and monitor the Food Strategy Support Fund Ensure project delivery and outcomes achieved by March 2024. £0.277m of the £0.300m has been committed, with the breakdown of projects as follows: • £205,000 to provide a new allotment site in the Hamilton area. The Chatelherault site is complete and fully occupied. • £15,000 to develop additional growing space at Richmond Allotment. • £5,000 for Unpaid Work Service Garden Project (Social Work). • £20,000 for the Food Strategy Community Grants were allocated to groups in 2022-23. • £32,500 to five other projects which were approved for funding in financial year 2021-22. The remaining £23,000 was returned to Corporate Finance as a result of a savings exercise. Complete Page 10 of 51 27
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Progress climate justice and ensure the transition to net-zero by 2045 does not exacerbate poverty or inequalities Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status PHD student from Glasgow Caledonian University will undertake a study to assess impact of climate change on South Lanarkshire communities. The PHD student will submit a proposal and methodology which will be internally assessed by the supervisory panel by March 2024. The PhD Student submitted the final version of their RDC2 (Application for Confirmation of Progression) in October 2023 and this was approved by the supervisory panel. The report provides details on research aim and research objectives, and proposed methodology and methods including ethical considerations. Approval of this has allowed the student to progress onto the data collection phase of the project. Complete Support the households within the South Lanarkshire Council area that are in, or are susceptible to being in, fuel poverty Use the datasets available via the Scottish Government and the Energy Savings Trust's Home Analytics tool to identify properties where residents are in or are susceptible to poverty. The findings will be used to prioritise investment and support energy efficiency measures. The findings from analysis of the datasets is being incorporated in the decision-making process for investment via the council’s LHEES. Complete Investigate options to replace fossil fuel heating systems within our domestic properties Carry out a review of the Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) installation programme in our domestic properties by March 2024 No pre ASHP installation heating data was available for our domestic properties to complete an appraisal. Instead, there is sufficient third-party studies available demonstrating that air source heat pumps use less electricity to produce the same heating output as electric storage heating. To date ASHPs have only been used to replace non-gas heating systems so as not to burden our tenants with additional costs due to the high electricity to gas cost ratio. Complete Page 11 of 51 28
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Progress climate justice and ensure the transition to net-zero by 2045 does not exacerbate poverty or inequalities Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Carry out feasibility work to assess the financial implications to a household as a result of decarbonisation of heat to their home by March 2024 An exercise was carried out which found that the costs associated with heating a property using gas was more than £100 cheaper per annum than heating a property using an ASHP at that time. Complete Page 12 of 51 29
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Progress climate justice and ensure the transition to net-zero by 2045 does not exacerbate poverty or inequalities Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Identify and support the development of initiatives to tackle food poverty and food security Work in partnership with the Community Planning Partnership organisations and community food organisations to reduce the reliance on food banks by prioritising access to emergency financial assistance, money advice and access to holistic support services Following the publication of the national plan “Cash-First: towards ending the need for food banks in Scotland” in June 2023, Money Matters Advice Service launched a Cash-First Scheme using the Council Financial Wellbeing Support Fund to support households with £50 vouchers. From the beginning of this project on 2nd October 2023 to 1st March 2024, the service has issued 1,845 vouchers of £50 to households for a total value of £93,250. There have been 1,743 families accessing the voucher with 122 accessing the fund for a second voucher. Money Matters Advice Service has a partnership agreement in place with Clydesdale, Hamilton, and East Kilbride Citizen Advice Bureau therefore clients can be referred to the fund via those agencies. The council financially supported seven local food banks in 2023-2024, they received £4,000 each. Along with St Anthony's and St Mark's foodbank, all seven council supported foodbanks are listed within the new version of 'Money is Not the Only Problem' booklet. The online directory will also be updated. During Christmas, over 1,000 gifts were donated across the 8 food banks, all taking a share of either gifts, or food items (in some cases some foodbanks opted for both) (1,056 Gifts were donated by council and SLLC staff, and 790 food items). A community networking event including community food organisations was organised by the Community Engagement Team during the Challenge Poverty Week in October 2023. Eleven "Spectacular Summer Session Hubs" were successfully delivered across the four localities of South Lanarkshire in key Green Page 13 of 51 30
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Progress climate justice and ensure the transition to net-zero by 2045 does not exacerbate poverty or inequalities Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status locations between 03/07/2023 and 11/08/2023. Each hub delivered a targeted intensive two-week programme which ran Monday-Friday with breakfast and lunch included. Across the 6 weeks, over 4,500 meals were provided. Promote the weather-related warnings and advice provided by the Met Office and SEPA to support individual and community preparedness Cascade Met Office and SEPA warnings and advice via council social media in real time through the council's Public Communications Team Alerts issued where appropriate Complete Localise the UN's global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and integrate with South Lanarkshire's Community Plan The Community Planning Partnership will map the SDGs to the community plan related Statutory Partnership Plans and agree local targets and indicators by March 2024 Thematic Group Leads completed a workshop on the SDG toolkit and how to map their plans to the SDG goals in January 2024. All plans have now been mapped, however the development of local targets and indicators has been put on hold due to a request from the Community Planning Partnership Board for a session on Performance which will take place in May 2024. The outcomes of this session will inform how this work moves forward. Amber Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Mainstream sustainability and climate literacy learning and development across the Council Review the learning and development options we currently deliver to identify where sustainability and climate literacy could feature by September 2023. Review was completed by September 2023. The Sustainability team continue to review opportunities for embedding climate change and sustainability into existing training with learning and development teams. Further training on implementation of Sustainability Impact Assessments (SIAs) and sustainable procurement are planned for the forthcoming year. Complete Page 14 of 51 31
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Develop a climate emergency training package for all employees including a learn online module by September 2023 Keep Scotland Beautiful Climate Emergency E-learning module is now available to staff on Learn on Line. Complete Deliver climate literacy training to elected members by September 2023. KSB climate literacy training was available to all Elected Members and was delivered in summer 2023. 14 Elected Members attended the climate literacy training, with 6 going on to complete the assessment and receive Climate Literacy accreditation. Complete Develop and implement a robust communications plan for promoting and raising awareness of the vision, themes and priorities of the sustainable Work with the council’s corporate communications team to develop a 2023-24 communications plan, by April 2023. This will include the promotion of key campaigns throughout the year, for example, Climate Week At the Corporate Management Team meeting on 26 January 2023, it was agreed that climate change would be added to the list of permanent communications campaigns for the Council. The Climate Change and Sustainability (CCS) Team worked with the Campaign Lead to develop a Communications Plan which was implemented over the course of the year. A communications plan for the 2024-25 year has also been prepared for the forthcoming year. Complete development and climate change strategy Implement the agreed communications plan and prepare articles, including case studies, to communicate success stories and achievements and inspire further positive action Regular articles and good news stories have been prepared and shared across council social media in line with the 2023-24 communications plan in order to raise awareness, inspire and influence positive behaviour change. Stories have included coverage of the Climate and Nature event hosted in October 2023 by the Community Planning Partnership, the council’s roll out of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and the impact of projects funded through the council-managed Renewable Energy Fund. Complete Page 15 of 51 32
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Redesign the new Council website and intranet to ensure sustainability and climate change information is easily accessed The Council will launch the new Invest South Lanarkshire website in 2024. The website provides access to sustainability information for businesses, as well as relevant case studies. Redesign of the main SLC website and Intranet is included in the 2024/25 IT service plan and ease of access to sustainability and climate change information will be considered as part of this project. Amber Further embed sustainable development and climate change into the council’s decision-making process Develop and pilot a sustainable development decision-making tool to be applied to proposed projects and initiatives presented to the Corporate Management Team and Committee for approval by the March 2024 Sustainability Impact Assessments (SIAs) were developed collaboratively by Sustainability and Finance teams and were trialled in early 2024 on both revenue and capital budget proposals. It is anticipated that the SIA process will remain iterative and will develop as officers become more familiar with the process. Work is ongoing with the roll out of SIAs and training will be delivered in the forthcoming year to upskill officers on the implementation of the tool. Green Deliver town centre visioning at a local level Complete town centre visioning study by end June 2023 and present final visioning strategy to Community and Enterprise Resources Committee in November 2023 This work is now complete has been reported in conjunction with masterplan work being carried out for Hamilton and East Kilbride. Complete Page 16 of 51 33
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Empower learners to shape and influence action on climate change and sustainability through the youth forum Continue to support the Youth Forum on Climate Change and Sustainability to ensure Young People’s voices are represented on appropriate council matters relating to this subject area We continue to support the Youth Forum and after the success of COS2 (Conference of Schools) planning is underway for a COS3 event. We have also engaged the Forum in the design and implementation of the Jump app and they are actively engaged in the 'Teach the Teacher' programme across all schools. Green Improve carbon footprint of all school communities Introduce an app to all secondary schools to monitor and improve behaviours linked to climate change and sustainability. We have introduced the Jump app in four of our secondary schools as part of the pilot which has sustainable targets for pupils and staff at each school with monthly prizes. The Jump app has multiple features to record and encourage staff and pupils to lead a more sustainable life, this includes information on active travel, recycling, energy consumption and eating habits. The app enables users to accumulate points depending on their behaviours and prizes are awarded monthly for staff and pupils who have accumulated the most points. We also have a monthly newsletter that celebrates success and promotes national and global events and can be accessed through the app. It is intended that the app will be rolled out to all schools. Amber Page 17 of 51 34
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Embed sustainability in the curriculum across all Education establishments Develop resources and peer learning programmes for all schools. Utilise national resources, such as HGIOS module on sustainability, within all schools by January 2024 Peer review materials for primary schools have been created and trialled. All primary schools are now in a peer review group and will commence in session 2024/25. Secondary schools have also completed their trial phase of Collaborative review with all schools ready to participate with partners during session 2024/25. All schools have been advised to include sustainability on their school improvement plans for next session and have been kept up to date on all aspects and developments in this area by the Science and Sustainability Development Officer. Green Page 18 of 51 35
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Work with our communities to provide programmes and opportunities to increase sustainability awareness and action Provide access to adult learning opportunities which raise awareness on climate change A range of projects continue to be delivered to support adult learners engage with climate change and sustainable practices. These include: East Kilbride Universal Connections Nowhere To Grow project; a learner-led project for adults who wish to build skills and knowledge in gardening and horticulture and assist in increasing local biodiversity. Lanark Universal Connections staff worked with parents and their children in Carstairs Junction Primary, enabling parents to support their children complete the John Muir Award. ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) food sustainability workshop at Glasgow Science Centre where learners attended a workshop on food sustainability. Such projects support adult learners to improve their understanding of climate impact and simple changes that can provide a net benefit to the environment and South Lanarkshire. These programmes also help provide educational opportunities that develop learners' core and social skills. Green Page 19 of 51 36
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions People Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Promote the Environmental and Sustainability Learning Programmes and Awards delivered across the authority Learners continue to be supported to access awards such as the John Muir Award as well as increase understanding of environmental issues, through participating in outdoor learning opportunities delivered through the Youth, Family and Community Learning (YFCL) Awards Team and the network of Universal Connections facilities and YFCL projects. This work is underpinned by the South Lanarkshire Youth Strategy as well as the Learning for Sustainability Action Plan. It should be noted that the John Muir Award will not be available for the next year as the John Muir Trust are reviewing and updating the award. However, the aims and objectives will continue to be progressed and recognition awarded through local systems, and alignment with other awards where applicable. Following a development session with the Community Planning Partnership board, a model of engagement has been proposed to strengthen dialogue between young people and the Board regarding environmental issues and ideas to tackle climate change in South Lanarkshire. The revised Community Learning and Development 3-year strategic action plan will underpin such developments and opportunities to promote environmental and sustainability learning programmes and awards, both existing and new, will be considered. Green Page 20 of 51 37
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Encourage active travel by extending our network of walking and cycle routes Continue the design and implementation of various cycle routes in towns and villages throughout South Lanarkshire and consult key stakeholders throughout the project stages. The next phase of the East Kilbride Active Travel Network on Churchill Avenue and part of Cornwall Street was completed. Three further Active Travel Plans for part of the Clydesdale area were concluded and these identified priority routes for the introduction of future active travel infrastructure. Green Page 21 of 51 38
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Deliver walking and cycling projects / schemes in line with agreed 2023-24 capital programme A number of cycling and walking projects are progressing: 1) Active Travel Studies – A number of further studies have been completed for towns including Blackwood, Kirkmuirhill, Abington, Crawford, Carnwath, Forth and Biggar. These complete studies for all areas of South Lanarkshire and have been uploaded onto the Council’s website. The priorities identified in these studies will be reviewed as part of the development of the new Local Transport Strategy. 2) East Kilbride Cycle Network – The next phase of the development of a segregated cycle network with enhanced pedestrian facilities in East Kilbride has commenced on Churchill Avenue. This will link West Mains Road to Cornwall Street and towards the trunk road network on the A726. This construction work is complete and landscaping works will be undertaken during appropriate growing seasons in 2024. 3) Carstairs to Carluke – Works which include surfacing upgrades, shared cycle /pedestrian crossing points of the A706 and A70, signing, road markings and other associated works, and transfer of land ownership to allow for the final section to be constructed, is programmed for 2024. 4) Cycle Parking Provision in Town Centres – Locations for new shelters have been identified with associated consultation and works programmed for 2024. 5) Cycle Shelters and parking stands in schools – New shelters will be installed in several schools in 2024. 6) Cycle Route designs continue being taken forward in various locations such as Carstairs, Hamilton, Uddingston and Bothwell. Green Page 22 of 51 39
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Deliver new and improved low carbon vehicle charging Install and renew charging infrastructure points which are available for use by the public within South Lanarkshire The installation of 13 dual outlet 7kW charge points within on-street residential areas is now complete and all charge points are now available for public use. Green infrastructure Continue project design development and implementation and attract private investment within South Lanarkshire We have developed an EV infrastructure Expansion Plan and Strategy which has identified the future requirement for charging infrastructure within SLC. This project was done in partnership with Glasgow City Region and we are now investigating the most appropriate financial model to allow for the rapid expansion of the network. Green Page 23 of 51 40
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Progress towards decarbonising the fleet of South Lanarkshire Council vehicles Implement the Fleet Strategy (2020-2025) Action Plan including a reduction in transport related emissions, conversion of fossil fuelled small fleet to full electric and the trialling of new fuel option for the medium to heavy fleet. The Fleet Asset Management Plan 2024 is being finalised, when complete it will be forwarded to Head of Service for review, after which it will be copied to Housing and Technical Resources for inclusion in the Corporate Asset Management Plan. The Fleet Asset Management Plan provides an update in relation to progress against the actions contained in the Fleet Strategy (2020-25). It is recognised that the two years lost to the Covid-19 pandemic have impacted the extent of progress that might have otherwise been made. Green Page 24 of 51 41
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Encourage greater use of public transport by working with partners to improve public transport infrastructure Deliver prioritised improvements to bus and rail infrastructure (e.g., park and ride) in line with available external funding for 2023-24 A number of projects are being taken forward as outlined below: Bus Infrastructure Improvements: This project consists of enhancing bus stop provision on the Stonelaw Road corridor and will see the provision of high access kerbs/ enhanced road markings. Works are complete. Lanark Interchange Improvements: This project consists of two sections. Section 1 – Park and Ride. Works associated with the main construction elements of the second phase of the car park are complete. A total of 64 spaces are now available including two electric bays and eight disabled bays located adjacent to the rail and bus interchange. Section 2 – Bus Station. The design of new bus station layout is complete. Discussions are ongoing with Network Rail to progress the land acquisition/transfer. Planning Permission has been granted and a contract award has been delayed due to SPT's Capital Funding position for 2024/25. Hairmyres Station Park and Ride: This project consists of the design and submission of a planning application for proposed Park and Ride facilities associated with the East Kilbride Rail Enhancement project. The package of works associated with the Park and Ride includes new active travel connections, bus stop and bus layover provision and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Pre-planning application public engagement exercises were completed and a planning application has been submitted. Programming discussions with Network Rail and Transport Scotland are ongoing. Bus Priority System - Approximately 60 traffic signal controlled Green Page 25 of 51 42
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status junctions have been upgraded to facilitate a new priority system. This operates by identifying in real time whether buses are behind their timetable, with traffic signals altered to allow late buses to make up lost time. This system has been installed and initial monitoring is ongoing. Work with partners to encourage and highlight the benefits of public transport usage and transport integration We continue to work with SPT and public transport operators to encourage the use of public transport. Lanark Park & Ride facility opened this year and was funded by SPT and we are progressing with the planning application for Hairmyres Park and Ride Site. Real time information has also been installed at a number of bus stop locations in Rutherglen. Real time information displays the bus services/route numbers due and provides live updates on expected arrival times, comparing these to the scheduled timetable. Green Ensure climate change, access to services and active travel forms part of the design of new residential developments through the revised Residential Design Guide Develop interim framework for consultation with stakeholders, with final framework prepared by end of June 2023 Planning and Building Standards have developed a Place-Making Guide rather than a Residential Design Guide, reflecting national policy on the importance of place-making. The Placemaking Guide will ensure that the places we shape will be sustainable at their core and are nature positive, bolstering climate resilience and nature recovery. The draft Place-Making Guide will be presented to the relevant committee. There will be a six week period of public consultation following committee approval. Amber Present finalised document to Planning Committee for approval by December 2023 Once the above comments have been received and considered, the finalised Place-Making Guide will be presented to the relevant committee later in 2024. Amber Page 26 of 51 43
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Utilise ultra-low carbon vehicles or public transport for Education related travel Consider a staged approach to changing the school transport specification to prioritise low carbon vehicles over price. There are still not enough transport providers with low carbon vehicles to meet the requirements of school transport. After consideration, there is not enough market availability for school transport specification to be changed. Once the market changes and required vehicle types are more readily available we will look at altering our tender specifications. Amber Liaise with SPT and improve our internal procurement framework to procure and provide ultra-low carbon vehicles. There are still not enough transport providers with low carbon vehicles to meet the requirements of school transport. However we continue to engage with SPT on this issue and encourage contractors to access funding that may be available to change some of their fleet to low carbon vehicles. Amber Consider sustainable travel within the council’s employee travel plan Review the current employee travel plan during FY 2023-24 to encourage employees to adopt sustainable travel choices An initial review has been undertaken. So far, opportunities to reduce employee travel have been related to the greater use of online meetings. A more comprehensive review will take place in 2024/25 and is an action within the HR team 2024 - 25 workplan. Green Continue to achieve Cycle Friendly Employer status Ensure that current cycle friendly status facilities are retained Current cycle friendly status facilities have been maintained with any additional requests considered in line with available funding. Green Page 27 of 51 44
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Reduce South Lanarkshire Council's carbon footprint Prepare a route map for reducing the council's direct and indirect carbon emissions. Agree milestones and targets for both direct and indirect emissions reductions The Council has committed to a zero Scope 1 (direct emissions) target by 2038 but it does not have a route-map in place to achieve this target. This route map is being developed as part of the Council’s longer-term Net Zero strategy and will require collaboration with all Resources. Over the next 18 months a number of reports will be produced which will inform a future SLC net zero route map. These will be presented to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee and include: •Carbon Management Year End Report 2023-24 •Public Sector Climate Change Public Duties Report 2023 -24 •Fleet Modernisation Plan •South Lanarkshire Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy •Carbon Future Targets Report Green Reduce South Lanarkshire Council's carbon footprint for indirect emissions not currently measured Agree the scope of indirect emissions not currently measured and prepare a route map for reducing. A Climate Intelligence Service (CIS) is being jointly funded by Scottish Government and local government to help councils to deliver their own net zero targets and for the development of Scope 3 (indirect emissions) and area-wide programmes of emissions reduction. The CIS is in the initial stages with user groups being set up with local authorities to establish the key requirements of the service. The Council’s Sustainable Development Officers are attending these preliminary sessions and will continue to engage with the CIS on behalf of South Lanarkshire Council. Green Support towns to transition to net zero Complete Town Centre net zero study by end June 2023 and present finding to Community and Enterprise Resources Committee in November 2023. This work is now complete has been reported in conjunction with masterplan work being carried out for Hamilton and East Kilbride. Complete Page 28 of 51 45
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Explore funding and finance models for net-zero and climate adaptation projects Establish an internal process that will support Services to maximise funding options and secure match funding for projects A report on Scottish Government funding opportunities has been circulated round the Climate Change and Sustainability Steering Group. Managers have been advised that the External Funding Team provide support on funding applications for all Resources. Green Continue to administer and monitor the Climate Emergency Fund Ensure project delivery and outcomes achieved by March 2024. Report on progress and impact of the funding to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee The fund has been fully committed to posts, internal projects and community grants and all projects are progressing. A mid-term report on the progress and impact of the Climate Emergency Fund was presented at the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in November 2022. This report highlighted the progress made and impact of the fund so far, how the fund has been allocated and the projects that are underway. A full-term report on the Climate Emergency Fund will be presented to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee when all project outcomes have been received and collated. Green Ensure environmental sustainability considerations are Review proposed capital programme and assess sustainability impacts Detailed Sustainability Impact Assessments completed for the 2024/2025 Council Capital Programme and issued to Elected Members for consideration. Complete considered within capital plan Establish a climate impact assessment process for the capital programme and projects by end June 2023 Process agreed by Climate Change and Sustainability Committee and used for 2024/2025 Budget. Sustainability Impact Assessments (SIAs) will continue to be refined and embedded, to be utilised in all future Capital Budget setting exercises. Complete Page 29 of 51 46
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Ensure environmental sustainability considerations are considered within budget strategies Carry out an environmental impact assessment on the annual revenue budget Sustainability Impact Assessments were completed for 2024/2025 Revenue Budget and Savings and issued to Elected Members for consideration. Complete Provide a summary on a place-based approach to climate action across South Lanarkshire Prepare a report for the Community Planning Partnership summarising the various local placed based climate actions and ensure local placed based action is being incorporated into other actions A report on community place-based climate action was presented to the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Committee in February 2024. The Sustainable Communities Engagement Officer was in post until March 2024 and was successful in building relationships and working alongside communities, colleagues and external partners to help support and encourage climate action at community level. The work undertaken by this fixed-term post has been successful in further embedding a place-based approach to climate action across South Lanarkshire. Green Page 30 of 51 47
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Promote and encourage community engagement for community led neighbourhood planning The Sustainable Communities Engagement Officer continued to work in conjunction with the Community Engagement Team within neighbourhood planning up to the end of the fixed term post in March 2024. This work was particularly successful in embedding sustainability considerations in community led neighbourhood planning, for example through the Sustainable Communities Engagement Officer's attendance at neighbourhood planning meetings and events with community members and other stakeholders. Green Page 31 of 51 48
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Manage flooding priorities and deliver prioritised flood protection schemes. Deliver prioritised flood protection projects / studies in line with available capital and revenue funding for 2023-24 Programme of Culvert Maintenance: This is an ongoing programme of works on our network of culvert inlets and their surrounding areas, with a view to improving the performance of assets and the safety of operatives. Works have been identified and these include the repair/replacement of culvert inlet trash screens and the construction of suitable access paths, steps, fencing and handrails. These works are being progressed on a continuous basis throughout the year. Backmuir Road, Hamilton: Proposed works include the repair of damaged security fencing, improved access for mechanical cleaning operations and repair of damaged gabion baskets at this culvert inlet. The extent of the required works are currently being scoped, and are programmed to go out to tender in June 2024 with works being undertaken in late summer/autumn 2024 depending upon contractor availability. Park Avenue, Coulter: Proposed installation of Property Level Protection measures and community resilience measures in the vicinity of Park Avenue, Coulter. The specification of materials is still under review at this time, however works are programmed to be awarded to our contractor in June 2024 with works complete by September 2024. Jonquil Way, Carluke: Proposed works to create a flood bund adjacent to Jonquil Way, to intercept and attenuate flood water during heavy rainfall events to protect adjacent residential properties. The extent of the required works are currently being scoped, and are programmed to go out to tender in July 2024 with works being undertaken in autumn 2024 depending upon contractor availability. Green Page 32 of 51 49
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status James Hamilton Heritage Loch, East Kilbride: In response to the recommendation contained within the Reservoir Engineer’s report, we are progressing with the internal lining of the outflow pipe that drains the James Hamilton Heritage Loch in East Kilbride. The scope of works has been agreed, and the contractor has been awarded these works in May 2024. Works are programmed to be complete in June 2024. Improve resilience of the road network through routine maintenance Review current road maintenance practices to improve climate change resilience through the use of alternative methods, materials and design standards The service regularly considers alternative maintenance techniques in conjunction with industry best practice to help improve our carbon footprint and climate change resilience. The use of alternative techniques is subject to the scrutiny of our engineering teams where consideration is given to engineering merit, operational delivery, future maintenance, and whole life cost. The service regularly collaborates with Scottish Collaboration of Transportation Specialists (SCOTS) and the Scottish Roads Research Board to drive innovation within this area. Green Develop online services for citizens reducing need for travel Continue to develop online services as part of the council’s Digital Strategy The SLC website now hosts 195 online forms that allows citizens to request council services. This is an increase of 20 forms since the previous update from September 2023. Green Maximise the number of council services which can be provided online via the council website Progress against this action outlined above. We will continue to identify options for increasing the number of council services provided online. Green Page 33 of 51 50
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Utilise innovative and new information technologies for environmental benefits Develop business cases for demonstrator Internet of Things (IoT) projects IOT describes a network of devices with sensors, processing ability, software and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet or other communications networks. IT Services have included IoT within the Digital Transformation workstream. The project has been placed on hold to better align with Digital Transformation timeline. IT Services will provide updates as this progresses. Red Continue the migration to Oracle Cloud Fusion system to support agile working, employee self-service and engagement Fusion is live for Finance and Procurement functions. HR and Payroll functionality is due to go live in August 2024. Green Explore sustainable web design to reduce the council website's carbon footprint Redesign of SLC website and Intranet is included in the 2024/25 IT service plan and sustainable web design will be considered as part of the project. Our ongoing focus seeks to ensure that we minimise our carbon footprint through the reuse of code and compressed images to reduce server load. Green Implementation of revised Building Regulations in relation to energy performance in new buildings and the adaptation of existing buildings. Undertake awareness sessions for surveyors and internal/external stakeholders on the application of revisions to building regulations related to energy standards, including guidance for surveyors where required Ongoing training and awareness sessions have been provided for surveyors and other colleagues involved in new building development within the Council. Green Page 34 of 51 51
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Assess council housing stock in order to meet the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2) by 2032 Analyse housing stock by property type and current EPC /RdSAP rating to identify properties that will be unable to attain EPC Band B by 2032 Analysis completed and a report has been prepared for Housing and Technical Resource Management Team detailing the findings. Complete Promote and provide assistance to owner occupiers and private landlords to improve energy efficiency, reduce fuel poverty and assist in the decarbonisation of homes Work with local energy advice and support organisations to understand the prevalence of fuel poverty in owner occupied and private rented properties. Support targeted interventions for owner occupiers /private landlords which could help to reduce fuel poverty in these areas. Work in this area continues, with our approach to tacking fuel poverty incorporated into the Council’s Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) which was approved by the Executive Committee on 26 June 2024. With a priority of alleviating fuel poverty, South Lanarkshire Council has used the LHEES process to investigate areas of high probability of multiple deprivation in conjunction with specific property types (using data from the Scottish House Condition Survey and the Scottish Index for Multiple Deprivation). The Financial Inclusion Networks’ Fuel Poverty Sub-Group continues to raise awareness of issues between services and identify solutions to help households who may be impacted by fuel poverty. Short term actions such as identifying grants for eligible households are taken forward alongside longer, strategic discussions on how best to support households across all tenures. Green Develop a Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) and delivery plan for South Lanarkshire Prepare LHEES and delivery plan for South Lanarkshire by end of 2023 by working with colleagues across council Resources and registered social landlord partners The Council’s Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) and Delivery Plan were approved by the Executive Committee on 26 June 2024. Complete Page 35 of 51 52
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Support Registered Social Landlord partners to improve the energy efficiency of their housing stock and meet EESSH2 Use the RSL forum to engage with Registered Social Landlord partners with council wide Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Schemes The Council regularly consults with the RSLs on applications for the Area Based Schemes. Green Review new build home specifications to meet the national low or zero emissions heat requirements The implications for future design enhancements will be assessed and specifications updated as required Consultancy Services design review group continually update and review current specifications and standards to ensure maximum energy efficiency and consideration of embodied carbon. Green Review specification and standards for new build non-domestic buildings for maximum energy efficiency Set up a joint working group to review and update current specifications and standards to ensure maximum energy efficiency and consideration to embodied carbon. Briefing sessions will be arranged with Council Resource representatives who are looking to construct new non-domestic properties or extensions to existing buildings A Performance and Standards Team has been created within the new Property Services Structure which will have a focused approach on standardisation of specifications and the approach to retrofit. The team will work closely with the Investment team. Currently our New Build properties are being designed in close collaboration with Building Standards and managed by our New Build Design Co-ordinator and Design Advisor. Complete Assess the council's non-domestic buildings and develop a detailed action plan on how it will Commission feasibility studies to assess what types of intervention will be required and what types of replacement heating systems may be viable Feasibility studies were completed for a sample of wet leisure facilities and primary schools by December 2023. The findings of these studies were reported to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in May 2024. Complete Page 36 of 51 53
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status meet the national target of being heated by zero carbon heat sources by 2038. Assess the financial implications to both upfront Capital and ongoing Revenue costs of the interventions Report has been presented to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on 15th May 2024 entitled "Non-Domestic Buildings – Net Zero Feasibilities". The report detailed the scale of investment required to undertake interventions, in terms of both capital and revenue costs. Complete Support the delivery of Climate Ready Clyde's (CRC) Adaptation Strategy Continue as an active member of the CRC Local Authority Forum participating in city-region wide workshops and events, creating connections and opportunities for development/co-sharing of knowledge and training by 2024 South Lanarkshire Council continues to be an active member of CRC which meets quarterly. This is the Local Authority Forum for Collaborative Climate Adaptation Action across Glasgow City Region. The Forum allows Local Authorities to work together to build capacity to support adaptation action and look for opportunities to deliver integrated and collaborative adaptation. Green Contribute to the development and implementation of local actions that contribute to the wider Glasgow City Region's (GCR) Adaptation Strategy, where appropriate, working across Council Resources SLC continues to be an active member of Climate Ready Clyde and contributes to raising awareness internally of the GCR Adaptation Strategy. Green Benchmark the Council against Adaptation Scotland’s Adaptation Capability Framework Set up an adaptation working group by summer 2023 A new Climate Change and Sustainable Development Officers' Group has been set up which will assume the responsibilities and key tasks of the proposed adaptation working group. The group has already undertaken a Climate Change Assessment Tool review which includes consideration of Adaptation and has contributed to the council's response to the Scottish Government's Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 - 2029 (SNAP3) consultation. Green Page 37 of 51 54
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use ofnatural resources and regenerate where appropriate Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Undertake a capability assessment to understand the Council’s current status and to identify gaps and areas for improvement by March 2024 The new Climate Change and Sustainability Officer Group undertook a Climate Change Assessment Tool (CCAT) assessment in May 2024. The CCAT is designed to help public bodies to assess their current performance and make a plan for future action through identifying gaps and areas for improvement. The CCAT will be revisited annually to give a comprehensive overview of progress made, where the council is improving in addressing climate chance and its impacts, and anywhere weaknesses may continue to exist. Green Work collaboratively with Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC) on district heating Complete technical studies, obtain statutory consents and implement enabling infrastructure on site to influence and enable the delivery of a district heating and cooling system at Shawfield Phase 1 Clyde Gateway URC is continuing to deliver the D2 Grids Renewable Energy project which will create a 5th generation heating and cooling network utilising treated effluent wastewater from Scottish Water’s Waste Water Treatment Works. The system connects to an energy network in Magenta Business Park, Shawfield and will provide energy to Red Tree Magenta and future developments. The system also includes ground based solar array to support the operational requirements of the sub-station. The project has experienced some delays due to SPEN approvals however works are on site. Green Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Continue to administer and monitor the Climate Emergency Community grant fund Allocate £75,000 to projects over financial year 2023/24. Provide support to groups to apply and implement their sustainability projects. Monitor grants to ensure projects are progressing. The £75,000 for the Climate Emergency Community Grants 2023-24 has been fully allocated to groups and projects are being progressed. Green Page 38 of 51 55
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Develop and deliver a Public Engagement plan Develop a public engagement plan for climate change and sustainability which supplements the council’s existing community engagement activity, and supports the communities own priorities and aspirations, for approval by the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in May 2024 An outline structure for the proposed Plan was drafted and an initial meeting was held with the Council's Community Engagement Manager. As this piece of work developed over the course of the year it was determined that the proposed communications plan for 2024-25 would supersede the public engagement plan. The 2024-25 communications plan will be finalised by summer 2024. Green Celebrate success by developing an annual report to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee to highlight sustainable development and climate change activity in action within our communities, by February 2024 A report ‘Community Climate Action in South Lanarkshire’ was presented to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2024 providing an update to the Committee on community climate action initiatives occurring within South Lanarkshire, which have been supported by the Council. This report focused predominantly on the work undertaken by the fixed-term Sustainable Communities Engagement Officer, in post for 18 months up to March 2024. The report provided detail on a number of community climate action projects across six themes: Young People; Biodiversity & Conservation; Sustainable Travel; Community Energy & Decarbonisation; Recycle & Reuse; and Regional Climate Action Hub. Complete Page 39 of 51 56
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Place and Communities Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Increase food growing provision throughout South Lanarkshire Provide an opportunity for more people to grow food through the provision of land for food growing, the promotion of sustainable practices and supporting third sector organisations involved in food growing Chatelherault allotment site opened in Summer 2023 with an increase of 64 plot holders. Richmond plot 1 (Rutherglen) was reconfigured to provide 15 raised beds to complement the existing site. Further updates will be provided following the food growing survey which is scheduled for later in 2024. Updates will relate to number of growing participants, growing area available, type of growing area and examples of activity undertaken. Green Support the remediation of vacant and derelict land that promotes social and environmental benefits Support Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company in a further phase of greening and environmental improvement works at Cuningar Loop and in further remediation works in the next phase at Shawfield Phase 3. Creation of 50 food growing allotments at Cuningar Loop about to commence on site for completion in September 2024. Remediation of Shawfield Phase 2 site being developed and implemented following the successful Levelling Up Fund award from UK Government. Green Include environmental considerations within the delivery of the council's Community Wealth Building Strategy Improve the environmental outcomes from procurement including support for the transition to net zero Progress has been made with the Flexible Framework Sustainability action plan to further embed good procurement practice. The flexible framework is updated 6 monthly and the Council has achieved level 2 (from 5) and is working towards level 3 in People, Process, Reporting and Stakeholders and level 4 in Strategy. Achievements this year include implementation of a mandatory 30% sustainability score in the technical envelope for Fair Work, Community Benefits and Climate impacts. All high value contracts within the priority sustainability categories receive a full sustainability test to inform the specification and technical requirements of the tender. Green Work with our own services, public and private sector partners to identify the skills they need to grow and create wealth in the local economy, including skills needed for the transition to a net-zero economy A new employer engagement team has been established within the employability team and works closely with Routes to Work South, Business Gateway and Skills Development Scotland to co-ordinate support to employers and identify opportunities. Green Page 40 of 51 57
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Natural Environment (Planet) Improve the availability and access to quality local outdoor spaces and services Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Ensure national planning policy set out in National Planning Framework 4 in relation to climate change, biodiversity and sustainable travel is embedded in decision making process for planning applications and the preparation of the South Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 3. Collation of appropriate information and data to inform the Evidence Report required as new first stage of LDP preparation by March 2024. Work has started on the first stage of the LDP3 process which involves the preparation of an Evidence Report through the gathering of qualitative and quantitative data. It is anticipated the Evidence Report will be presented to the Full Council for approval in early 2025. Thereafter it will be submitted to Scottish Ministers for a Gatecheck. Once approval has been given work will start on preparation of the Proposed Plan. It is currently anticipated the plan will be adopted by the end of 2027. Green Prepare an Open Space Strategy in partnership with Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network Appoint a consultant to analyse the council’s open space audit results, develop standards on open space provision and engage with local communities and other stakeholders Detailed analysis of the open space audit has been completed by consultants and a draft technical report submitted. It is intended that engagement will be carried out between now and the end of the calendar year. Amber Partnership and other council services Draft Open Space strategy to be presented to the Planning Committee by March 2024. It is anticipated that a report providing an update on progress and detailing plans for engagement on the analysis of the open space audit will be presented to Planning Committee in Q2 2024 - 25. Thereafter, it is anticipated that the Draft Open Space Strategy will be presented to Planning Committee in Q4 2024 - 25. Amber Page 41 of 51 58
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Natural Environment (Planet) Enhance, protect, and respect the outdoors and the natural and historic environment. Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Make South Lanarkshire a cleaner place to live, work and visit free of litter, fly-tipping and dog waste Encourage awareness, behaviour change and personal responsibility, through communication with internal and external stakeholders. Work with individual client groups to tackle local issues such as fly tipping. Activities and discussions are continuing to take place with all the Resources in the Litter Strategy Steering Group as we implement the the Litter Strategy Action Plan. An update on the delivery of the Litter Strategy Action Plan was presented to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in September 2023 along with a review of the Action Plan for the coming year. Two pilot initiatives are underway focusing on town centres and housing that aim to address issues of fly tipping, waste in the wrong place, and correct presentation of domestic bins. We undertook the annual rural roads clear-up programme with more than nine tonnes of discarded waste collected. Clean-up teams were sent out for 30 days, clearing more than 77 miles of roads and verges in and around the Clydesdale, East Kilbride, Hamilton, Larkhall, Stonehouse and Strathaven areas. The clean-up was included in Council social media. Green Prepare an annual progress report for the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in September 2023 demonstrating the impact of the Litter Strategy (2022-2027) The annual progress report for the Litter Strategy was presented to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on 20 September 2023. Complete Page 42 of 51 59
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Natural Environment (Planet) Conserve, restore and improve biodiversity, and use nature-based solutions in tackling the climate crisis Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Review council use of herbicide with a view to reduce the amount used Continue to look at alternative methods to control weeds. Carry out further trials during 2023-24 and report on progress to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2024 Works ongoing in this area, slight reduction again in 2023 on glyphosate used, new equipment purchased to tackle weed problems on slabbed paths 2024-25. This is a work in progress and findings are presented to the Amenity Forum. Work will continue to review herbicide applications. Alternatives being used are the recently purchased full path width metal brushes and we are looking to develop greater use of the makur lances in all areas. The council will continue to review dilution rates and any other new alternatives that come onto the market to decrease the volume of herbicide being used. Green Measure tree canopy and increase tree planting across South Lanarkshire Continue to measure and plot all trees to build an accurate picture of the council’s position on canopy cover Across South Lanarkshire, the council continue to measure / assess existing tree canopy cover and tree equity. On Council owned or controlled land, it also continues to develop records of the nature, condition and resilience of tree assets and their canopy cover. Green Identify suitable council owned land that can be utilised for additional tree planting. Work with all external and internal stakeholders including community groups to seek additional funding for tree planting. On Council owned or controlled land, we continue to identify sites suitable for planting trees to increase canopy cover and species diversity. We are developing a masterplan with a prioritised delivery plan. We are seeking additional funding for tree and woodland planting through internal and external sources, including community groups. Green Increase Biodiversity and invest in peatlands across South Develop a new Biodiversity Implementation Plan for (2024-2027) approval by Climate Change and Sustainability Committee by March 2024. The Biodiversity Strategy and the Biodiversity Duty Implementation Plan were approved by the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee in February 2024. Complete Page 43 of 51 60
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions Natural Environment (Planet) Conserve, restore and improve biodiversity, and use nature-based solutions in tackling the climate crisis Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Lanarkshire Participate in Clyde Peatlands to bring about a step change in the scale and rate of peatland restoration across the City Region The Project Officer for Clyde Peatlands has been investigating restoration opportunities with landowners of several raised bogs in the East Kilbride/Chapelton area. This is with the purpose of making bids for NatureScot Peatland Action Fund. This is currently at the early stages and so far no proposals have been agreed. Amber Implement new technologies and more sustainable cleaning materials within council facilities Pilot the use of 'Aquateck' cleaning solution in key facilities and evaluate during 2023/24 Evaluation of Aquateck cleaning solution pilot was undertaken which led to the roll out across all 17 of the high schools (due to complete by August 2024). Green A Green Economy (Planet) Take action to allow South Lanarkshire to become a zero-waste society Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Support a circular economy by re-using, recycling and generating energy from the waste we manage Undertake a review of the waste service during 2023-24 that will determine most efficient refuse collection patterns and incorporate the impact of the Deposit Return Scheme The waste review continues to progress. A report on the scope and progress of the review was presented to CMT in May 2024. To date, the infrastructure review and the Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) review (including the award of the contract for the management and operation of the council's HWRCs) has been completed. The review of kerbside services has commenced but has been heavily influenced by the the complex and dynamic nature of legislative and policy landscape within the waste management sector. Green Page 44 of 51 61
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Take action to allow South Lanarkshire to become a zero-waste society Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Review of recycling bins at flatted properties in South Lanarkshire Review existing arrangements at flats during 2023/24 and work with Corporate Communications to produce communications campaign. This work continues to progress. The service was awarded a £150k grant from Scottish Government to pilot a new style of communal bins for flatted properties. These new bins (along with household communications produced in conjunction with Zero Waste Scotland) were rolled out during April and May 2024. Green Reduce the instances of avoidable food waste Identify the share of householders using the council’s food waste collection service during 2023 and consider extending the food waste collection service This piece of work was completed in early 2024. The results showed that approximately 30% of residents who have been provided with burgundy bins to collect food and garden waste use the bins to dispose of food waste. Complete Manage and monitor food waste in schools Implement a pilot project in schools to reduce level of food waste from the dining rooms during 2023/24. Waste Warrior programme has rolled out to 31 schools by end of June 2024. Working with Education to create a resource pack for all schools by August 2024. Green Deliver training online where possible and develop the digital skills of South Lanarkshire Council employees Review existing training delivery models identifying options for further transition to online delivery Review of existing training delivery models within the Council is ongoing as we continue to identify areas for improvement. We have successfully embedded sustainability considerations into the commissioning of training. Where possible the Council continues to transition training to online delivery. Green Ensure environmentally sustainable training options are delivered by external training providers Work with external training providers to identify environmentally sustainable delivery options The Council continues to work with training providers, to identify more sustainable delivery options. SLC commissions and delivers a large volume of courses and sustainability is built into considerations when planning/commissioning the training. Sustainability is now part of our 'business as usual' plan of working, with external training providers asked to identify more sustainable delivery options. Green Page 45 of 51 62
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Enable a fair transition to a green economy leaving no one behind Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Deliver the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to help ensure a just transition to net zero Progress delivery of the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund, initiatives that support the council, communities, and businesses transition to net zero. 1. In 2023/24 Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) awarded £75,000 in Climate Emergency and Resilience Grants to community groups and partner organisations to pursue environmental, sustainability, or climate change projects. 2. In 2023/24 SLC worked with Glasgow City Region (GCR) and the University of Strathclyde to develop ExtendPLUS (launched March 2024) which will facilitate carbon reporting for SMEs across the GCR. 3. In 2023/24 SPF funded an Employment Land and Market Analysis in East Kilbride to assess the need for and feasibility of energy efficiency investments. Green Increase the number of young people obtaining the skills to access green and circular economy employment Provide senior phase vocational learning opportunities that prepare young people for the green economy The GradU8 programme provides opportunities for young people in S5-S6 to engage in work based learning within a college setting. Opportunities within the 12 subject choices with potential routes to green jobs include engineering, construction, horticulture, and travel and tourism. Green Use outdoor learning and environmental volunteering opportunities to develop young people's employability skills A range of outdoor learning opportunities have been developed and funded through small grants and supported volunteering placements including Clydesdale Community Initiatives, Lets Grow (Skills Exchange) and Wiston Lodge and Duke of Edinburgh. Green Page 46 of 51 63
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Enable a fair transition to a green economy leaving no one behind Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Engage with employers and key stakeholders to provide workforce up-skilling and re-skilling for a green and circular economy Procure a demand led Green Jobs programme to deliver on fair work for local people Following the transformational review of employability and associated funding change it has not been possible to develop a specific green jobs programme for unemployed people. The employability team will continue to engage with employers, Business Gateway and Routes to Work South to respond to vacancies within the green jobs sector. A proposal has been developed seeking Banks Renewables funding to deliver a pilot green job focused senior phase programme for SLC school pupils but is yet to be agreed. Amber Provide local businesses with up-skilling and reskilling opportunities to meet the needs of the transition to a green and circular economy Due to Scottish Government funding changes, the Council’s Employability Team’s upskilling programme has been reviewed to focus on parents requiring in-work support and training to increase their earnings from employment, and there has been a reduction in budget to support re-skilling activity. Re-skilling activity delivered in 2023/24 has been employer needs-led and has focused primarily on the care sector. However, ongoing discussions with South Lanarkshire College by our Business Support team have recognised an emerging skills shortage in the green economy and a need to adapt and increase training to meet this demand. Much of the required training is complementary to the existing courses offered by the College e.g. a heating engineer’s training can easily be enhanced / extended to include heat pumps, and the College are looking at including this and other aspects into future years’ curriculum. Red Page 47 of 51 64
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Enable a fair transition to a green economy leaving no one behind Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Consider climate change impacts within the council’s workforce planning Consider as part of Resource workforce planning process the impact of climate change and the need for new or additional skills or knowledge An initial review has been undertaken and there has been discussion on impact of climate change as part of a wider discussion on workforce planning. The workforce planning cycle runs 2022 – 2025 so from September 2024 we will begin the review of workforce plans to review and refresh for the next cycle. Green Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and sellingof local goods and services Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Review the scope and scoring of sustainability requirements in procurement contracts Rollout of new tender scoring approach for Sustainable Procurement Duty and awareness for Resources through the Procurement Network to improve environmental outcomes and transition to net-zero emissions for appropriate procurements by June 2023 A revised minimum sustainability score of 30% of the technical envelope was agreed by CMT and implemented in 2023/2024. The score is allocated between Fair Work, Community Benefits and Climate impact on a variable basis depending on the tendered commodity. Green Progress the Procurement Flexible Framework Sustainability action plan Use the Scottish Procurement's Sustainable Procurement Framework to self-assess progress in embedding sustainability outcomes to improve the consideration of climate change in procurement activity and outcomes in appropriate procurement The Scottish Government's Sustainable Procurement Toolkit is evaluated every six months to track progress in sustainable outcomes. During 2023/2024, the Council achieved level 2 (from 5 levels) in People, Process, Stakeholders and Reporting and level 4 in Strategy. Progression to level 3 is targeted for 2024/2025 Green Page 48 of 51 65
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and sellingof local goods and services Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Provide procurement support to council services within contract specification development Identify regulated contracts with sustainability impacts through the 2023/24 service planning exercise with a view to improve climate change outcomes, with appropriate input from Sustainability Team and Resources The following tenders received a full sustainability assessment in 2023/2024 with sustainable outcomes embedded within the specification as mandatory requirements or assessed through technical questions: Household Waste Recycling Centres, Education Digital Futures, Care at Home and Intensive Family Support services. Green Assess the capacity of the local food and drink sector to supply food and drink to the council Examine the results and recommendations of the Market Capacity Assessment in 2023 with a view to increase procurement of local food and drink Following the presentation of the results of the market capacity assessment at the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on 20 September 2023, the following actions were undertaken: -The Council engaged directly with the 22 businesses interested in supplying food to the Council -Chatelherault is getting ready to proceed with Quick Quote processes to identify local suppliers for meat, fruit and vegetable, coffee and artisan bread in 2024-2025 -Engagement with the catering team of Glasgow City Council and North Lanarkshire Council was conducted and key lesson shared with relevant services -Through the EAT South Lanarkshire Programme, eight companies were supported to achieve their growth ambitions -The Council continues to financially support Lanarkshire Larder and provide expertise -"Showcasing the Larder of the Lowlands” event was organised with support from Scotland Food and Drink in April 2023 with 50 food and drink businesses attending the event. The event took place again in April 2024. Green Page 49 of 51 66
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and sellingof local goods and services Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Promote the use of local and seasonal food and drink produce to residents and visitors Promote local products through campaigns and events and across business sectors The Supplier Development Programme hosted a Meet the Buyer event on 5th June 2024 which attracted 1,598 individuals nationally representing a 14% increase in attendance from the year before. This event offered South Lanarkshire businesses opportunity to promote local products and network with the wider business community. Green Introduce the Deposit Return Scheme in line with national guidance Undertake a pilot of Reverse Vending Machine in one high school to investigate the integration with cashless school catering system The ongoing pilot in St Andrews and St Brides is progressing and outputs have been positive. The reverse vending machine is still in operation, and it continues to collect cans and bottles. The cans and bottles are then placed in the mixed recycling waste stream. Legislation on Deposit Return Scheme does not come into force until 2027. Green Consider options for schools in line with the Scottish Government programme Legislation on Deposit Return Scheme has been delayed and does not come into force until 2027. Options for schools will be considered in line with Scottish Government programme timescales. Report Later Reduction on single use plastic items Continue to review use of all single use items and consider and evaluate sustainable alternatives Single use plastic items have been removed from the Alliance eCatalogue and are no longer available to order. Work will continue in raising awareness of need to reduce the use of all single use items. Green Page 50 of 51 67
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IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions IMPROVe - SLC Performance Management System Report printed on Tuesday 6 August 2024 12:32:10pm Sustainable Development Strategy Improvement Actions A Green Economy (Planet) Support South Lanarkshire’s businesses in the transition to a net-zero economy and helping to ensure they are climate resilient Action Measures Comments/ Progress Status Promote the support that is available to businesses for good sustainability outcomes Publicise internal and external funding opportunities for businesses for carbon reduction and improved energy performance Marketing for funding opportunities has continued throughout the year, including the council's own business support grants and ExtendPLUS which enables businesses to obtain a free Carbon Footprint Baseline report. Publicity has focused on communicating the various opportunities via the Council's social media channels including Facebook, X, and LinkedIn. Business Support continue to liaise with the council's Communications team to ensure effective promotion of available funding opportunities. Green Update website, share information with partners and prepare and implement marketing plan The council's business support pages have been updated to share relevant information. This includes information on funding and support available. Our business grants specifically support businesses on their journey to net zero. In the last three months we have also launched the ExtendPLUS programme in South Lanarkshire. This lets SME’s obtain a free carbon baseline assessment report, this has been launched via Social Media posts, website updates and cascading of information to partner organisations e.g. Business Gateway. This programme will also be embedded into our business grants application process and all applicants to our grants will be referred to ExtendPLUS. Green Encourage and influence sustainable property improvements in business premises Commission a consultant to update the review of East Kilbride industrial properties to understand which properties meet environmental standards and to improve energy performance Consultants Ryden have completed an Employment Land and Property Analysis for the East Kilbride, Hamilton, Blantyre, Larkhall, and Clydesdale areas, and are nearing completion of a review for Cambuslang/Rutherglen and an Executive Summary of all these reports. The reviews summarise the condition of existing industrial stock and make a series of recommendations for refurbishment works including the need for improvements to environmental standards and energy performance. Green Page 51 of 51 68
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 14 August 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: 2024/2025 Action Plan for Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] agree the Action Plan for the 2024/2025 year of the Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [ (1) that the Council Action Plan for 2024/2025 for the implementation of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy, as attached at Appendix 1, be agreed. s] 3. Background 3.1. The Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027 was approved by the Council on 15 June 2022. The five-year Action Plan for the implementation of the Strategy was then approved by the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on 8 February 2023. The 2024/2025 Action Plan is the second annual Action Plan under this overarching Plan. 3.2. The Strategy sets out how the Council aims to develop sustainably and tackle the climate change emergency over a five-year period, whilst also providing a broad strategic direction for longer term planning to help deliver on the agreed outcomes and contribute to achieving a longer-term vision. 3.3. Delivery of actions within the Strategy provides the main focus for our sustainable development activity and also enables the Council to fulfil its duties under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 2003, the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019 and the Council’s contribution to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. 3.4. The Action Plan sets out specific actions to be undertaken to deliver objectives under each theme. 4. Sustainable Development & Climate Change Strategy Action Plan 2024-25 4.1. The Action Plan for the second year of implementation of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy (SDCCS) is available in Appendix 1. The Action Plan was produced following extensive consultation with all Council Resources and key services throughout the Council. 5 69
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4.2. The Action Plan is split across 13 main priorities that were agreed as part of the development of the SDCCS. These align with the four key themes of the Council Plan and each action is mapped to one of the four main themes: People Place and Communities The Natural Environment (Planet) A Green Economy (Planet) 4.3. The Action Plan includes two sections: Performance/contextual measures towards the Strategy’s outcomes, and improvement actions for each of the themes within the Strategy. performance measures - providing information on how well the Council is performing against the strategic outcomes in the Strategy contextual measures - providing a health check against outcomes improvement actions - that will be taken during the term of the action plan to respond to the challenges ahead and contribute to meeting the outcomes in the Strategy 4.4. The Action Plan also includes details of the steps to be taken, lead Council Service, and expected outcomes. 5. Monitoring Framework 5.1. Progress of the Action Plan will be reported to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee at Quarter 2 and Quarter 4. The IMPROVe system will continue to be used to gather the progress from services and to produce monitoring reports. 6. Employee Implications 6.1. All Resources are required to contribute to the implementation of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy to ensure that actions and targets are met. Officers within the Sustainable Development and Climate Change team monitor and report the Council’s progress, however there are officers from all Resources who have responsibility for updating and owning the actions noted within the IMPROVe action plan. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. The actions detailed in the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy and associated Action Plan are funded from existing Resource budgets, however the scale and pace of action needed to meet climate change targets and address the current climate crisis will require significant capital investment and is likely to require external funding and investment. The delivery of the Strategy may help leverage for additional funding and investment; however alternative financing models are also being explored. 8. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. The Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy contributes towards the Public Sector Climate Change Duties, the Biodiversity Duty and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 8.2. A full Strategic Environmental Assessment was carried out alongside preparation of the SDCCS. This has ensured a consistency in approach to addressing the climate crisis alongside the ecological emergency. It ensures that the importance of sustainable development is mainstreamed across the Council and promoted to 70
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communities and partners incorporating this sustainable approach across all Council led policies, plans, programmes and strategies should result in continued environmental benefits for South Lanarkshire and the people who live, work and visit here. 9. Other Implications 9.1. There are no other implications for risk in terms of the information contained within this report. 10. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 10.1. An Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) was carried out on the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy and no adverse impacts were identified. 10.2. The Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy and associated Strategic Environmental Assessment underwent full public consultation for six weeks during February and March 2022. The results from the consultation and the preceding community workshops shaped the vision, themes and priorities of the strategy. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 25 July 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Ambitious, self-aware and improving Fair, open and sustainable Excellent employer Priorities We will work to put people first and reduce inequality We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Outcomes Our children and young people thrive Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities People live the healthiest lives possible Inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Previous References Climate Change and Sustainability Committee report on 31 August 2022 entitled ‘Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027’ Climate Change and Sustainability Committee report on 8 February 2023 entitled Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022 to 2027 Action Plan 71
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List of Background Papers The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2017-2022 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: Adam Wallace, Sustainability Adviser Email: adam.wallace@southlanarkshie.gov.uk 72
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Appendix 1 Performance measures and action plan This Action Plan is divided into two parts: part (a) sets out our main performance measures against our outcomes; and part (b) describes the key actions we will take in the coming year to respond to the challenges ahead and improve services and outcomes. A. How we will measure our performance Priority 1: Contribute to improving health and wellbeing through environmental protection and access to environmental benefits for all Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Number of Environmental Volunteering days 2022 2,000 days CER Facilities, Waste & Grounds Priority 3: Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Number of council employees who have completed the Learn of Line Climate Change modules n/a Increase by 5% from previous year. CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Encourage schools to achieve eco school status n/a Increase by 10% from previous year. Education Support Services 73
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Priority 4: Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Number of trips being made by bike 2019 Increase by 1% from previous year. CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Mode share of school children traveling by active or public transport (Annual national ‘Hands Up’ Survey) 2022 Increase by 1% from previous year. CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Carbon emissions in tonnage for South Lanarkshire: emissions within scope of Local Authority. (figures from DESNZ with a 2-year lag) Annual Reduction on previous year. (Contextual) CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Percentage reduction on area-wide emissions compared to previous year: emissions within scope of Local Authority (figures from DESNZ with a 2-year lag) Annual Reduction on previous year. (Contextual) CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Per capita: emission within scope of Local Authority (figures from DESNZ with a 2-year lag) Annual Reduction on previous year. (Contextual) CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Reduce Scope 1 emissions from Council carbon footprint (Council operations i.e. buildings and fossil fuelled fleet) 2024-25 Zero direct emissions by 2038 (National Target adopted by the Council) CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Reduce Scope 2 and 3 emissions from Council carbon footprint (electricity, waste and staff travel) 2024-25 Indirect emissions as close to zero by as soon as possible CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service 74
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Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Occurrence/reduction of flood events 2022 Reduction on previous year. (Contextual) CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Secure external funding to help deliver the Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change priorities n/a £1m CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Priority 6: Improve the availability and access to quality local outdoor spaces and services Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Percentage of streets found to be acceptable during Litter Monitoring System Surveys 2021-22 >92.1% CER Grounds Services Retain Green Flag accreditation at Strathaven Park, Cambuslang Park and Castlebank Park 2022 3 CER Grounds Services Priority 7: Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Increase in the overall number of food growing participants on council land including schools, care homes, housing areas and areas managed by community groups or third-party organisations 2021 Increase in number of food growing participants by 5% compared to previous year. CER Amenity Services 75
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Priority 12: Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and selling of local goods and services Measure Baseline year Target Responsibility Percentage of total household waste that is recycled 2022 50% Waste Services Percentage of household waste sent to landfill 2022 <10% Waste Services B. What actions we will take in 2024-25 Priority 1: Contribute to improving health and wellbeing through environmental protection and access to environmental benefits for all Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver the actions Responsibility Safeguard health by improving and protecting air quality Implement grant funded air quality measures during 2024-2025 to support the Air Quality Action Plan and continue to maintain and publicise both real time and historical air quality monitoring results CER Environmental Health Identify and manage contaminated land within the statutory regulatory framework Implement the Contaminated Land Strategy and support the Planning Authority in relation to development applications CER Environmental Health Identify relevant climate hazards, as well as risks and opportunities which are/will affect South Lanarkshire Develop a climate risk register through CCS Steering Group upon which action planning, decision-making and monitoring will be built upon with regards to climate change adaptation and resilience CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service 76
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Priority 2: Progress climate justice and ensure the transition to net-zero by 2045 does not exacerbate poverty or inequalities Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver the actions Responsibility Commission a PHD student from Glasgow Caledonian University undertake a study to assess impact of climate change on South Lanarkshire communities Following approval and assessment of project, the PHD student will progress data-collection stage of project through undertaking community engagement CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Continue to raise awareness internally of the project, through participating in events, attending meetings and delivering presentations to both external and internal stakeholders Work with partners to promote available energy advice and funding support schemes to minimise fuel costs for households Partners deliver range of actions to tackle fuel poverty, including: • Advice and support • Signposting to financial support Fuel Poverty Subgroup Promote weather-related warnings and advice from national agencies (e.g. Met Office and SEPA) to inform individuals and communities Continue to work with the Council’s Corporate Communications Team to deliver and/or share regional and/or national weather warnings where relevant or appropriate FCR Council Resilience Team Work to enhance individual and community level preparedness via sharing and utilising resources available (e.g. Ready Scotland and Adaptation Scotland) and work to raise awareness of the need for community and business resilience to climate change risks CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Continue to raise awareness and embed sustainability within social work resources and South Lanarkshire HSCP Continue to deliver upskilling and awareness sessions within social work resources, utilising frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals Social Work Resources 77
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Priority 3: Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver the actions Responsibility Mainstream sustainability and climate literacy learning and development across the Council Re-promote Learn on Line training on sustainability to elected members and officers by March 2025 FCR Learning and Development Team and CER Enterprise and Sustainable Develop and implement a robust communications plan for promoting and raising awareness of the sustainability, climate change and adaptation agenda within the SLC, national and global context Implement the agreed 2024/25 communications plan and prepare articles, including case studies, to communicate success stories and achievements and inspire further positive action CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Work with the council’s corporate communications team to develop a refreshed 2025/26 communications plan, by April 2025. This will include the promotion of key campaigns throughout the year, for example, Climate Week Further embed sustainable development and climate change into the council’s decision-making process Identify potential for development and piloting of an integrated sustainable development decision-making tool to be applied to proposed projects and initiatives presented to the Corporate Management Team and Committee for approval by the March 2025 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Deliver town centre masterplans, strategies, and visioning at a local level Ensure that all town centre development activity has sustainability at its core with reference to the recommendations contained in the Town Centre Net Zero Strategy, NPF4 and other strategic recommendations CER Economic Development Services Empower learners to shape and influence action on climate change and sustainability through the youth forum Continue to support the Youth Forum on Climate Change and Sustainability to ensure young people’s voices are represented on appropriate council matters relating to this subject area Education Support Services 78
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Priority 3: Influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver the actions Responsibility Continue to support the Youth Forum in empowering, shaping and influencing behaviour change in relation to climate change and sustainability in schools Education Support Services Embed sustainability in the curriculum across all Education establishments Considering recent national guidance, enhance our focus on learning for sustainability across all levels and curricular subjects Education CQIS Service Work to continue to raise awareness and monitor achievement of learning for sustainability in Early Years establishments Education Early Years All educational establishments will participate in a Learning for Sustainability Conference and consider how to incorporate aspects within educational settings. e.g. primary schools will aim to deliver one project each year which has an overt focus on sustainability Education Early Years Explore and review options for carbon reduction from school estates through understanding carbon footprint of activities/ estates Work with Resources from across the Council to understand and reduce carbon footprint through a set of co-developed carbon reduction initiatives Education Support Services, Roads CER, HTR, Steering Group Work with our communities to provide programmes and opportunities to increase sustainability awareness and action Provide access to adult learning opportunities which raise awareness on climate change Education Youth, Family and Community Learning Service (YFCL) Promote the Environmental and Sustainability Learning Programmes and Awards delivered across the authority 79
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Priority 4: Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver the actions Responsibility Encourage active travel by extending our network of walking and cycle routes Continue the design and implementation of various cycle routes in towns and villages throughout South Lanarkshire and consult key stakeholders throughout the project stages CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Deliver walking and cycling projects / schemes in line with agreed 2024-25 capital programme Deliver new and improved low carbon vehicle charging infrastructure Install and renew charging infrastructure points which are available for use by the public within South Lanarkshire CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Continue project design development and implementation and attract private investment within South Lanarkshire Progress towards decarbonising the fleet of South Lanarkshire Council vehicles Implement the Fleet Strategy (2020-2025) Action Plan including a reduction in transport related emissions, conversion of fossil fuelled small fleet to full electric and the trialling of new fuel option for the medium to heavy fleet CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Encourage greater use of public transport by working with partners to improve public transport infrastructure Deliver prioritised improvements to bus and rail infrastructure (e.g. park and ride) in line with available external funding for 2024-25 CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Ensure climate change mitigation and adaptation, particularly net zero area-wide emissions form a Develop interim framework for consultation with stakeholders, with final Placemaking Guide prepared by end of June 2024 CER Planning Services 80
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Priority 4: Improve affordable, sustainable, and accessible transport options Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver the actions Responsibility strategic part of the new Placemaking Guide as per NPF4 Present finalised document to Planning Committee for approval by December 2024 Consider sustainable travel within the council’s employee travel plan Reviewing the current employee travel plan during 2024- 25 to encourage employees to adopt sustainable travel choices FCR Personnel Services Continue to achieve Cycle Friendly Employer status Ensure that current cycle friendly status facilities at principal building (e.g. HQ, South Vennel) are maintained and promoted through providing facilities such as storage and showers to encourage and enable staff to active travel to work. Promotion of Cycle to Work Scheme FCR Personnel Services Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Reduce South Lanarkshire Council's carbon footprint Present 2023/24 interim carbon management report to CCS Committee in May 2024 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Prepare Carbon Future Targets Report reviewing current strategic Net Zero work being undertaken by the Council and examples of other local authorities Net Zero plans/route maps for CCS Committee by March 2025, and consider the development of a carbon emission reduction plan 81
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Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Present 2023-24 year-end carbon management report to CCS Committee by December 2024 Develop the Public Bodies Climate Change Report Work with Services to complete the Public Bodies Climate Change Report 2023-24 for submission to the Scottish Government by 30 November 2024 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Support towns to transition to net zero Undertake feasibility planning for the implementation of the findings of the Town Centre net zero study by March 2025 CER Economic Development Services Explore funding and finance models for net-zero and climate adaptation projects Present findings of research into potential funding and finance models and examples of good practice elsewhere to CCS Steering Group by March 2025 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development and FCR Finance (Strategy) Continue to administer and monitor the Climate Emergency Fund Ensure project delivery and outcomes achieved by end of March 2025. Report on progress and impact of the funding to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Ensure sustainability considerations are considered within capital and revenue budget plans Continue to embed Sustainability Impact Assessment Process as part of decision-making for both capital and revenue proposals FCR Finance (Strategy) Enterprise and Sustainable Development Deliver training, awareness and upskilling on Sustainability Impact Assessment for the revenue and capital budget process Integrate climate change and sustainable development into finance strategy and reporting Explore options for better evidencing carbon emissions associated with future Budget spend in line with Public Bodies Climate Change Duties FCR Finance (Strategy) Enterprise and Sustainable Development 82
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Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Manage flooding priorities and deliver prioritised actions under the Local Flood Risk Management Plan(s) Deliver prioritised flood protection projects / studies in line with available capital and revenue funding for 2024 - 2025 CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Improve resilience of the road network through routine maintenance Review current road maintenance practices to improve climate change resilience through use of alternative methods, materials, and design standards CER Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services Utilise innovative and new information technologies for environmental benefits Develop business cases for demonstrator Internet of Things (IoT) projects FCR IT Services Continue the migration to Oracle Cloud Fusion system to support agile working, employee self-service and engagement Explore sustainable web design to reduce the council website's carbon footprint Implementation of revised Building Regulations in relation to energy performance in new buildings and the adaptation of existing buildings Continue to raise awareness and upskill surveyors on the Proposed Domestic Building Environmental Standards (Scotland) Bill, considering changes to legislation and building regulations, through facilitating training and awareness sessions CER Building Standard Services Increase the overall energy efficiency of homes and increase the rates of decarbonisation within domestic properties across South Lanarkshire Support homeowners and private landlords to improve the energy efficiency of their properties through administering and promoting the Energy Company Obligation Scheme (ECO) and Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Schemes HTR Housing Strategy Support Registered Social Landlord partners to improve the energy efficiency of their housing stock and take HTR Housing Strategy 83
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Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility forward opportunities to work jointly to decarbonise heating systems Deliver Housing Investment Programmes to improve the energy efficiency of the council’s existing homes HTR Property Deliver the council’s affordable housing supply programme to increase the proportion of new, energy efficient homes with clean heating systems HTR Strategy Prepare for the introduction of the new Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS) Develop South Lanarkshire Council’s strategic approach to meeting the new standard HTR Property Develop South Lanarkshire’s Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) and Delivery Plan Seek committee approval for the LHEES and delivery plan and work with the relevant lead partners to implement the agreed delivery plan for 2024/25 HTR Property Assess the council’s non-domestic buildings and develop a detailed action plan on how it will meet the proposed legislative requirement of being heated by zero carbon heat sources by 2038 Based on the findings from the net zero feasibilities progress the development of an action plan to meet the national targets for publicly owned buildings by 2038 HTR Property Utilise the Central Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF) Programme to deliver energy efficiency improvement projects in council non-domestic buildings Implement the agreed CEEF delivery plan for 2024/25 HTR Property 84
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Priority 5: Progress a transition to net-zero, energy efficient and climate resilience homes, buildings and infrastructure, and minimise the unsustainable use of natural resources and regenerate where appropriate Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Support the delivery of Climate Ready Clyde's (CRC) Adaptation Strategy Continue as an active member of the CRC Local Authority Forum participating in city-region wide workshops and events, creating connections and opportunities for development/co-sharing of knowledge and training by 2025 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Contribute to the development and implementation of local actions that contribute to the wider Glasgow City Region's (GCR) Adaptation Strategy, where appropriate, working across Council Resources Benchmark the Council against climate change risk assessments Undertake a capability assessment to understand the Council’s current status and to identify gaps and areas for improvement by March 2025 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service Priority 6: Improve the availability and access to quality local outdoor spaces and services Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Ensure national planning policy set out in National Planning Framework 4 in relation to climate change mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity and sustainable travel is embedded in decision making process for planning applications and the preparation of the South Collation of appropriate information and data to inform the Evidence Report required as new first stage of LDP preparation by December 2024 CER Planning Service 85
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Priority 6: Improve the availability and access to quality local outdoor spaces and services Improvement Actions for 2024- 25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Lanarkshire Local Development Plan 3 Explore options for data-gathering and analysis to ensure climate, biodiversity, and sustainability related topics (such as surface water flooding, flood risk, nature networks and green infrastructure) to enable data-driven decision making through tools such as GIS CER Planning Service Provide guidance for Development Management colleagues on how to consider climate change and sustainability topics when assessing planning applications, utilising the State of the Environment Report as evidence base CER Planning Service Continue to deliver upskilling, awareness, and training sessions to Planning Officers and key stakeholders such as Building Standards on climate change adaptation, net zero and biodiversity CER Planning Service Prepare an Open Space Strategy in partnership with Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership and other council services Utilise the technical report provided by the consultant to inform engagement on open space and establish an internal working group to develop a strategy CER Planning Service Open Space strategy to be presented to the Planning Committee in 2026, following alignment with the timescales for the LDP Evidence Report Priority 7: Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Continue to administer and monitor the Climate Emergency Community grant fund Allocate £110,000 to projects over financial year 2024/25 CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Service 86
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Priority 7: Empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Increase food growing provision throughout South Lanarkshire Provide an opportunity for more people to grow food through the provision of land for food growing, the promotion of sustainable practices and supporting third sector organisations involved in food growing CER Amenity Services Support the remediation of vacant and derelict land that promotes social and environmental benefits Support Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company in a further phase of greening and environmental improvement works at Cuningar Loop and in further remediation works in the next phase at Shawfield Phase 3 CER Economic Development Services Priority 8: Take action to allow South Lanarkshire to become a zero-waste society Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Work to support SME’s in accessing wider business support in relation to climate change and net-zero, including the Circular Economy Establish connections with organisations such as Business Gateway Lanarkshire, Scottish Enterprise, Lanarkshire Climate Action Hub to build capacity and share knowledge in relation to climate change, net zero and circular economy CER Economic Development Undertake a review of the Climate Confident South Lanarkshire Pilot, supporting SMEs in accessing expertise and advice to reduce their carbon footprint Follow up on recommendations as appropriate following review of Climate Confident South Lanarkshire pilot CER Economic Development Service Review waste services (infrastructure and collection services) in line with delivering current and future waste legislation (including the Circular Economy) Continue to undertake a review of the waste service through 2024/25 that will determine most efficient refuse/ recycling collection services and related waste services infrastructure CER Waste Services 87
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Priority 8: Take action to allow South Lanarkshire to become a zero-waste society Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Review of recycling bins at flatted properties in South Lanarkshire Continue to review existing arrangements at flats during 2024/25 and work with Corporate Communications to produce communications campaign CER Waste Services Manage and monitor food waste in schools Undertake a review and conduct data analysis of the pilot “Waste Warrior” initiative prior to exploring further roll-out options CER Facilities Services Manager and Education Support Services Priority 9: Enhance, protect, and respect the outdoors and the natural and historic environment. Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Make South Lanarkshire a cleaner place to live, work and visit free of litter, fly-tipping and dog waste through progression of actions in the Litter Strategy (2022-2027) Continue to progress actions on reducing litter, fly- tipping and dog waste in South Lanarkshire through working with stakeholders, partners and community groups as per the Litter Strategy Action Plan (2022- 2027) CER Initiatives Officer and Ground Services Manager Priority 10: Conserve, restore and improve biodiversity, and use nature-based solutions in tackling the climate crisis Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Review council use of herbicide with a view to reduce the amount used Continue to look at alternative methods to control weeds. Carry out further trials during 2024-25 CER Ground Services Measure and increase tree canopy cover across South Lanarkshire Across South Lanarkshire, continue to measure / assess existing tree canopy cover and tree equity CER Ground Services On Council owned or controlled land, continue to develop records of the nature, condition and resilience of tree assets and their canopy cover 88
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Priority 10: Conserve, restore and improve biodiversity, and use nature-based solutions in tackling the climate crisis Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility On Council owned or controlled land, continue to identify sites suitable for planting trees to increase canopy cover and species diversity. Develop a masterplan with a prioritised delivery plan. Seek additional funding for tree and woodland planting through internal and external sources, including community groups Contribute to the delivery of the Clyde Climate Forest, working with partners to achieve targets outlined in the Concordat Increase Biodiversity and invest in peatlands across South Lanarkshire Participate in the Clyde Peatlands Project to bring about a step change in the scale and rate of peatland restoration across the City Region CER Ground Services Work with key partners including the Clyde grasslands and Clyde wetlands projects to identify and establish regional nature networks CER Ground Services Continue to improve key ecosystems within our Local Nature Reserves and Country Parks utilising the Nature Restoration Fund CER Ground Services Implement new technologies and more sustainable cleaning materials within council facilities Deliver Aquateck in Corporate Units and further roll out in the second quarter of 2024 to all High Schools in South Lanarkshire Council, following successful pilot exercise in 2023/24 CER Facilities Services 89
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Priority 11: Enable a fair transition to a green economy leaving no one behind Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Deliver the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to help ensure a just transition to net zero Progress delivery of the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Fund initiatives that support the council, communities, and businesses transition to net zero CER Economic Development Services Consider climate change impacts on the council’s workforce in the workforce plan including need for green skills Consider the impact of climate change and the need for new or additional skills or knowledge as part of the Resource workforce planning process in 2024/25 FCR Personnel Services/ CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Consider and explore options for embedding sustainability and climate- related behaviours in the Council’s Behaviours Framework, particularly key roles FCR Personnel Services/ CER Enterprise and Sustainable Development Priority 12: Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and selling of local goods and services Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Review the scope and scoring of sustainability requirements in procurement contracts and build knowledge and awareness of evaluating sustainability issues Continue to embed new tender scoring approach, new sample questions, through training and development of Resource clients, working to improve knowledge of sustainability issues in specification and tenders, including scoring and evaluating tender responses FCR Central Procurement Team Utilise Scottish Government’s Flexible Framework Assessment Tool to assess current level of performance to realise intended sustainable outcomes Work to progress towards Level 4 of the Flexible Framework to show continuous progression in embedding consideration of climate change and sustainability in procurement activity and outcomes FCR Central Procurement Team Provide procurement support to council services within contract specification development Raising awareness of new sustainable procurement process which provides support to council services for non-priority contracts through training and FCR Central Procurement Team 90
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Priority 12: Lead the transition to a circular economy and improve resource efficiency through responsible consumption and production, and buying and selling of local goods and services Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility development, with all priority contracts going through Scottish Government Sustainability Test Improve contract management of sustainability factors through the Council’s new electronic appraisal process Monitor sustainability measures and KPIs in contracts to ensure sustainability performance and achievement of intended sustainability outcomes FCR Central Procurement Team Priority 13: Support South Lanarkshire’s businesses in the transition to a net-zero economy and helping to ensure they are climate resilient Improvement Actions for 2024-25 Steps we will take to deliver them Responsibility Promote the support that is available to businesses for good sustainability outcomes Publicise funding opportunities and share information with businesses for carbon reduction and improved energy performance CER Economic Development Services Promote and encourage the use of bespoke Lanarkshire sustainable tourism resources, commissioned via Green Tourism Engage tourism businesses to uptake more sustainable practices utilising the resources situated on the VisitLanarkshire website by March 2025 CER Economic Development Services Encourage and influence sustainable property improvements in business premises Engage consultants to undertake SLC-wide review of industrial properties and to identify opportunities for incorporating Net Zero and sustainable technologies into the delivery of SLC projects by March 2025 CER Economic Development Services 91
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 14 August 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Glasgow City Council - Model for Climate Investment 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] Provide background information on Glasgow City Council’s recently announced model for climate investment, and potential implications and opportunities for the Glasgow City Region including South Lanarkshire [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the content of the report and indicative timescales for engagement with the Glasgow City Region on the proposal be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. On 22 March 2024, Glasgow City Council (GCC) published details of their proposed model for taking forward the investment required to realise the Council ambitions around heat decarbonisation and Net Zero. This was developed in response to recognition of the shortfall in finance for projects to achieve Net Zero and need to deliver through innovative business models unlocking private sector investment. 3.2. The model comprises two distinct elements outlined below: Delivery Vehicle – to create the conditions that enable the private sector to work with the Council in bringing forward infrastructure projects that are within the Council’s control, business case ready and investable. Climate Investment Vehicle - for the city/city region that would be controlled externally. Similar vehicles have been created in other regions of the UK and consist of private finance consortiums. These often include pension funds, that commit to funding investable infrastructure projects which demonstrate a return on investment, often over a longer timeframe. 3.3. GCC’s proposed model notably will see the creation of a specialist green investment team, at a cost of £4m over two years, tasked with unlocking a £40billion fund needed for the city’s ambition to be Net Zero by 2030. 4. Resourcing and Governance 4.1. Project development in Glasgow has been led by the Council’s Finance, Legal, and Procurement teams recognising the instrumental roles they will play in establishing the new model, with strategic direction from the Leader of the Council. Input from other Council teams has been sought including Sustainability, Built Environment, 6 93
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Regeneration, and Neighbourhoods. Recognising the scale and scope of the investment and work required in achieving the Council’s ambitious net zero by 2030 commitment, and understanding the available internal resource, external expertise has been brought in to augment the available resources. 4.2. Acknowledging the complexity of the proposal and the need to accelerate net-zero projects, the proposed model requires the set-up of a specialist team to drive the project forward. The specialist team will seek to bring together expertise in finance, sustainability, procurement, and law. The cost of the team is projected as circa £4m over the 2-year period, split across internal and external resource. It is anticipated that £1.8m will be required for internal resources and a further £2.2m required for external expertise in areas such as legal and procurement support. 4.3. GCC has proposed the establishment of a Political Oversight Group to ensure appropriate governance, long-term political stability, and to provide advisory capacity. This will supplement existing sustainability governance, and progress will be reported to appropriate committees across the Council. 5. Glasgow City Council Climate Investment Model 5.1. Councils are facing financial pressures and public sector funding alone cannot provide the investment required to achieve net-zero ambitions. GCC has proposed an innovative model aimed at attracting investment in the city to fulfil its ambitions. 5.2. The Delivery Vehicle will allow GCC to take a strategic approach to control and manage investment in the city. This will involve investigating and implementing viable and appropriate business models and tools for the city and articulates what the city wants to achieve, what city assets are in scope for development, and what the minimum requirements any model must achieve are. 5.3. GCC is exploring a public private partnership or concession agreement for the Delivery Vehicle which will build on LHEES strategic direction for decarbonising heat and improving building efficiency. This could see investment in areas such as low/zero- carbon heat networks, renewable energy from wind and solar, energy efficiency, and smart energy systems but can be extended to other energy related projects. 5.4. The Climate Investment Vehicle would unlock access to capital from the private sector, as well as long-term patient capital from other sectors, such as Pension Funds. The fund would help to address the funding gap as well as providing city partners with the opportunity to progress projects that otherwise may not be delivered. In addition, further mechanisms for appointing institutional investors will be assessed to allow for a more streamlined approach to mobilising investment opportunities. 5.5. Any vehicle created would have a separate governance and decision-making process from the internal Delivery Model similar to a fund management company. This means that projects led by city stakeholders outwith the Council could be taken forward and funded once assessed on their commercial viability. 5.6. At the end of the two-year funded period it is hoped that the Council will be in a position to begin investing in identified projects. This will require the establishment of an appropriate legal structure, identification of a suitable procurement route, and development of a series of ‘shovel ready’ projects. No capital works are expected to be undertaken within the two-year funded period. 94
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6. Other Notable Models 6.1. GCC undertook a review of climate investment models happening elsewhere and concluded that the only examples available were in England and internationally. The two foundational models in England were: 6.2. Bristol Leap Model The Bristol Leap model is a public/private partnership between Bristol City Council and Ameresco Ltd, a private sector renewable energy and energy efficiency company. The Leap, with its own governance structure, is Bristol’s approach to decarbonising the city with a stated ambition of investing £500m over 5 years, whilst mobilising private sector funding and ensuring that social value is achieved. 6.3. Greater London Authority (GLA) Model The Greater London Authority (GLA) model, the London Efficient and Decentralised Generation of Energy Fund (The Edge) is an example of a city level funding approach, creating a fund for organisations to bid in to. A partnership between GLA and Sustainable Development Capital LLP (SDCL) was developed with a £100m fund created that can be accessed through the submission of a full business case and allows organisations across the city region to be supported to become energy efficient. 7. Glasgow City Region 7.1. The GCC proposal makes reference to the potential for the proposed model to be extended across the whole Glasgow City Region, potentially including South Lanarkshire. 7.2. The Council’s report to Members notes that “the opportunity of extending to neighbouring Local Authorities should be left open for any decisions that Glasgow makes to ensure that the benefits are extended beyond the city where appropriate. Once the approach has been agreed Glasgow will commence discussions with regional partners to make them aware of our intended next steps.” 7.3. It is understood that the GCC report will be tabled at a future GCR Cabinet meeting. It is anticipated that South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) will be approached in due course to discuss any implications. SLC should continue to monitor the development of GCC’s Model for Climate Investment and engage with colleagues across the City Region on potential for the model to be rolled out to other local authorities. This process could inform SLC’s own approach to securing investment to realise the Council’s ambitions around heat decarbonisation and Net Zero. 8. Employee Implications 8.1. Employee implications arising from this are limited. SLC staff will maintain a working knowledge and understanding of the project as it develops and will report internally where appropriate. Should the model be rolled out to the Glasgow City Region, SLC’s involvement would be more significant and requirement for staff resource would likely increase. 8.2. In June 2024, SLC officers met with the project lead at GCC, to discuss the new model for climate investment. Officers agreed to continue engagement as the project developed to identify the most appropriate routes for collaboration. A further meeting is expected to take place in September 2024. 9. Financial Implications 9.1. There are no immediate financial implications for the Council arising from development of this model by GCC. If the model is rolled out to the wider Glasgow City Region in 95
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future, there is potential for the Council to be asked to contribute financially to the ongoing costs of the team. 10. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 10.1. This has the potential to address significant barriers to achieving Net Zero that the Council currently faces. If successfully rolled out across the Glasgow City Region the model could deliver benefits to the Council in terms of supporting delivery against Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental ambitions. 11. Other Implications 11.1. Failure to meet sustainable development and climate change objectives’ is one of the top risks for the Council. By exploring all options available to the Council in achieving Net Zero ambitions this risk may be mitigated. 12. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 12.1. No equality impact assessment or consultation required at this time. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 25 July 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Values Focused on people and their needs Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Ambitious, self-aware and improving Fair, open and sustainable Priorities We will work to put people first and reduce inequality We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities People live the healthiest lives possible Previous References None List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: Adam Wallace (Sustainability Adviser) E-mail: adam.wallace@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 96