Agenda Document Pack - Climate Change and Sustainability Committee - 09/10/2024
South Lanarkshire Council · 9 October 2024
Back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee — 9 October 2024 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 01 October 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, 09 October 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 Norman Rae (Chair), Kirsten Robb (Depute Chair), Joe Fagan (ex officio), Alex Allison, John Anderson, Ralph Barker, Maureen Chalmers, Ross Clark, Margaret Cooper, Colin Dewar, Monique Equi, Ross Gowland, Lynsey Hamilton, Gavin Keatt, Ross Lambie, Richard Lockhart, Katy Loudon, Julia Marrs, Lesley McDonald, Elaine McDougall, 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 14 August 2024 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 3 - 8 Item(s) for Noting 3 Food Waste Projects Report dated 13 September 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 9 - 18 Item(s) for Decision 4 Approval of Forthcoming Public Bodies Climate Change Duties 2023/2024 Report Report dated 13 September 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 19 - 22 Item(s) for Noting 5 Carbon Management Year End Report 2023/2024 Report dated 13 September 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 23 - 30 6 South Lanarkshire Council - Climate Week 2024 Report dated 13 September 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources). (Copy attached) 31 - 38 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 14 August 2024 Chair: Councillor Kirsten Robb (Depute) Councillors Present: Councillor Alex Allison, Councillor John Anderson, Councillor Ralph Barker, Councillor Robert Brown (substitute for Councillor Mark McGeever), Councillor Ross Clark, Councillor Margaret Cooper, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Elise Frame (substitute for Councillor Maureen Chalmers), Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, Councillor Ross Lambie, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Julia Marrs, Councillor Monique McAdams, Councillor Elaine McDougall, Councillor Carol Nugent, Councillor Mo Razzaq, Councillor John Ross, Councillor Graham Scott, Councillor Bert Thomson, Councillor Helen Toner, Councillor Margaret B Walker, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Maureen Chalmers, Councillor Joe Fagan (ex officio), Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Gavin Keatt, Councillor Katy Loudon, Councillor Lesley McDonald, Councillor Mark McGeever Attending: Community and Enterprise Resources D Booth, Executive Director; A Brown, Head of Enterprise and Sustainable Development; K Carr, Head of Facilities, Waste and Grounds Services; G Dodds, Sustainable Development Officer; K McCafferty, Sustainable Development Officer (Funding); C Park, Head of Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services; 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 S Turner, Section Leader (Legislative) Also Attending: S Kuhens, PHD Student, Glasgow Caledonian University Chair’s Remarks The Chair, having referred to Councillor McGeever’s decision to step down from his role as Chair of the Committee, wished to thank him for all his good work during his tenure. 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 15 May 2024 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record. 2 3
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3 Social Vulnerability amid Just Transition in South Lanarkshire Sage Kuhens, PHD Student, Glasgow Caledonian University gave a presentation on ‘Social Vulnerability amid Just Transition’ in South Lanarkshire. The aim of the research was to assess vulnerability and adaptive capacity in relation to climate change in South Lanarkshire which would inform interventions essential for facilitating a just transition. The research had the following 5 objectives:- Objective 1 – identify protected characteristic groups and vulnerable communities Objective 2 – conduct a capacity assessment of communities’ ability to participate in the adaptation and decarbonisation of housing and mobility Objective 3 – advise on measures for achieving a just transition focused on adaptations and building climate resilience for those most at risk Objective 4 – implement procedural justice through community engagement Objective 5 – contribute to the advancement of just transition and adaptation policy in South Lanarkshire Ms Kuhen’s research had found that the vulnerable in society suffered most and emphasised the importance of participatory democracy. She welcomed any feedback from elected members and officers. Officers responded to members’ questions on the range of ongoing work, including engagement activities undertaken and the challenges faced by the Council, recognising that there were particular issues for rural and urban areas. The Chair, on behalf of the committee, thanked Ms Kuhen for her informative presentation and wished her well with her research. The Committee decided: that the presentation be noted. 4 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Action Plan - 2023/2024 Q4 Progress Report A report dated 25 July 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted on the status of the actions and measures contained in the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy (SDCCS) at Quarter 4 of 2023/2024. At its meeting on 15 June 2022, the Council approved the Council’s SDCCS which covered a 5- year period from 2022 to 2027. Delivery of actions within the Strategy provided the main focus for sustainable development activity over the period and enabled the Council to fulfil its duties under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 2003, the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The SDCCS Action Plan for 2023/2024 contained 21 performance measures towards the Strategy’s outcomes, together with 111 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 21 measures within the SDCCS:- 4 had seen the timescale or target met according to expectations (green) 0 had minor slippage against timescale or minor shortfall against target (amber) 1 had seen major slippage against timescale or major shortfall against target (red) 4
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3 would be reported later when data was available 13 were contextual and provided a health check for South Lanarkshire The 1 red measure related to the percentage of household waste recycled, which remained below the target of 50%. The actions to address those improvement actions were outlined in the report. Further details were provided in Appendix 1 to the report. Of the 111 improvement actions within the SDCCS:- 27 were complete (blue) 70 had seen the timescale or target met according to expectations (green) 11 had minor slippage against timescale or minor shortfall against target (amber) 2 had seen major slippage against timescale or major shortfall against target (red) 1 would be reported later when data was available The 2 improvement actions marked as red related to the development of the business case for demonstrator Internet of Things projects and the provision of upskilling and reskilling opportunities to meet the needs of the transition to a green economy. Further details and management actions were provided in Appendix 1 to the report. Key highlights were outlined in paragraph 4.6 of the report. Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. In terms of monitoring carbon emissions relating to school transport following the Executive Committee’s decision, the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) advised that a number of factors would require to be taken into consideration in the year prior to its implementation, including monitoring, and gave an undertaking to raise the matter with Education Resources. The Committee decided: that the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy Action Plan Quarter 4 Progress Report 2023/2024 be noted. 5 2024/2025 Action Plan for Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy A report dated 25 July 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted on the Action Plan for 2024/2025 of the Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy. The Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022 to 2027 was approved by the Council on 15 June 2022. The 5-year Action Plan for the implementation of the Strategy was then approved by this Committee on 8 February 2023. The Action Plan, which set out specific actions to be undertaken to deliver objectives under each theme, was split across 13 main priorities that aligned with the following 4 key themes of the Council Plan:- People Place and Communities The Natural Environment (Planet) A Green Economy (Planet) A copy of the Action Plan was attached as Appendix 1 to the report. 5
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In response to Councillor Marrs’ question if, in terms of Priority 4, the full environmental tonnage of private vehicles travelling to and from schools, following on from the school transportation changes, could be included and monitored, the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) cautioned that, while it might prove too difficult and granular to measure, officers would give it further consideration. The Head of Roads, Transportation and Fleet Services confirmed that Priority 4 was a strategic measure relating to the whole Council. He advised that officers would consider if the ‘Hands Up’ survey, which gave a breakdown of how children travelled to school, could be expanded. He further explained that officers were looking at safety routes in order to encourage children to walk to school. In addition, for those who could not walk to school, sustainable travel by bus would be reviewed. The Committee decided: that the Council Action Plan for 2024/2025 for the implementation of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy, as detailed in Appendix 1 of the report, be agreed. [Reference: Minutes of South Lanarkshire Council of 15 June 2022 (Paragraph 6) and Minutes of 8 February 2023 (Paragraph 4)] Councillors Frame and Razzaq left the meeting during consideration of the above item of business 6 Glasgow City Council - Model for Climate Investment A report dated 25 July 2024 by the Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) was submitted providing information on Glasgow City Council’s recently announced model for climate investment, and potential implications and opportunities for the Glasgow City Region (GCR), including South Lanarkshire. In March 2024, Glasgow City Council (GCC) published details of its proposed model for taking forward the investment required to realise its 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 the need to deliver through innovative business models, unlocking private sector investment. The model comprised of the following 2 distinct elements:- Delivery Vehicle – to create the conditions that would enable the private sector to work with GCC in bringing forward infrastructure projects that were within the Council’s control, business case ready and investable Climate Investment Vehicle – for the city/city region that would be controlled externally GCC’s proposed model would see the creation of a specialist green investment team, at cost of £4 million over 2 years, tasked with unlocking a £40 billion fund needed for the city’s ambition to be Net Zero by 2030. It was understood that the GCC report on this matter would be tabled at a future GCR Cabinet meeting. It was also anticipated that this Council would be approached, in due course, to discuss any implications. Officers responded to members’ questions on various aspects of the report. The Committee decided: that the content of the report and indicative timescales for engagement with the Glasgow City Region on the proposal be noted. 6
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7 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 7
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 9 October 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Food Waste Projects 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- provide the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee with an update on the work undertaken to reduce food waste within Facilities Services 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the progress and updates on Food Waste initiatives be noted. 3. Background 3.1. Following Climate Emergency Training in July 2022, a cross resource working group was formed to look at Food Waste within primary schools. The aims of the group were to:- encourage pupils to eat more from their plates find out why pupils were leaving food from their meals assist with the cost-of-living crisis create greater awareness and educate children and young people give greater responsibility and ensure waste is disposed of correctly focus catering employees to consider any food waste they may have involve Waste officers to provide classroom talks 3.2. Catering Teams were also asked to consider surplus food and efficient procurement, while maintaining the Food and Drink in Schools (Scotland) regulations 2020. The project team sourced materials from Zero Waste Scotland and worked with Waste Services on a programme of school visits and presentations to promote the Food Waste journey in South Lanarkshire. 3.3. This project aimed at primary schools generated initiatives in other areas of our business. Many schools hold Eco-School awards or are continuing to promote environmental awareness and actions as an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of the school for both pupils and staff, therefore, the focus on food waste was welcomed by Education colleagues within the pilot schools. 3.4. Becoming a Good Food Council is part of the Council’s priorities. To advance this objective, the Council has developed a good food strategy to promote a Good Food Culture. Included within this, is an objective to help reduce food insecurity in a more 3 9
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dignified and empowering approach and reduce avoidable food waste while redistributing food surplus. 4. Waste Warriors in Primary Schools 4.1. Facilities Services identified avoidable food waste in primary school dining rooms and sought innovative solutions to aid Scotland’s net-zero transition. Partnering with Education, the service launched a whole-school initiative to address this issue. The first pilot group of Bankhead, Kirklandpark, Robert Smellie, St Vincent’s and Carnwath Primary Schools participated in a 6-week programme, working with the catering team, recording and analysing waste data. This was followed by a further 21 schools over three rollout periods. Pupils designated as "Waste Warriors," were provided with scales, high-visibility vests, and resources to monitor the clearing station area by ensuring correct waste segregation, communicate with their peers to encourage them to eat their full lunch and reduce food waste in the dining hall. The catering team measured the kitchen preparation and counter waste, and all data from the dining hall and kitchen areas was brought together, recorded and discussed on a daily / weekly basis. 4.2. This initiative sparked creativity across schools, with pupils forming a gardening club at Carnwath Primary and a composting group at Kirktonholme Primary School, along with a focus at school assembly. Following the successful pilot of 5 schools, which culminated in certificate presentations for participating pupils, the initiative has expanded to over 20% of South Lanarkshire primary schools, with 26 school groups taking part and other schools awaiting rollout. 4.3. Colleagues in Waste Services supported the programme by delivering presentations to primary school pupils on the South Lanarkshire Food Waste Journey. Zero Waste Scotland provided resource packs with templates for the recording of figures, learning material for the workplace or school along with tips and hints for pupils and employees to benefit from in their home. From the pupils’ autopsy of the food waste, key areas of improvement and development were realised, and changes were made. For example, greater scrutiny of procurement, changes to product specification and a focus on high food waste items. 4.4. The outcomes of this project were as follows:- enjoyable and fun learning experience with pupils taking a proactive approach to being involved changes and/or a focus on menu items and products that resulted in higher food waste cooks in Charge considering the quantity of certain foods they are cooking to reduce waste greater awareness and confidence on the benefits of reducing food waste food waste data showed the importance of a focus on waste and continuous engagement to maintain improvements development of an Education learning pack 4.5. Focus on Key Food Waste Items Having identified vegetables from the pupils' autopsy as a food group with higher food waste, this became an area for development as it forms a crucial part of children and young people’s diet. It is also a requirement of the Food and Drink in Schools (Scotland) Regulations 2020, where two portions of vegetables and fruit must be available daily as part of the lunchtime offering. 10
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4.5.1. Firstly, procurement of these items was scrutinised to prevent counter waste and secondly a launch event ‘Keep Calm and CARROT on eating vegetables’ was held over a full week. Cooks in Charge were asked to use their creativity to present vegetables in a fun appealing way to the children. Displays portraying vegetable shaped animals and the spelling of words in vegetables were created and used as a Taste and Try to entice the children to taste the items. Using the characters of our ‘Go Fresh Club’ brand, this was supported by a Go Fresh Club poster highlighting the health benefits of each vegetable along with interesting facts. 4.5.2. Schools demonstrating the best engagement and whole school approach to the promotion were awarded a fun day with our Fruit and Vegetable supplier who provided an educational talk and quiz on vegetables while the full school enjoyed a taste and try from their Exotic Fruit and Vegetable cart. To maintain this focus, a monthly promotional plan is being developed to encourage uptake of vegetables and educate the children on the nutritional aspects of fruit and vegetables in their daily life and activities. 4.6. Waste Analysis The study demonstrated that waste reduction is achievable with targeted efforts. By implementing specific strategies and closely monitoring their impact, the study revealed variation in data across the schools, partly due to unavoidable food waste being included within the figures, for example fruit cores, peelings and skins and the uptake of these items varies across the schools. This has made it difficult to track actual wastage as this can vary depending what food items are on the menu. In addition, at the start of the pilot it was clear that the food waste data received from the waste contractor was inaccurate in some cases which is why there are no pre-pilot weights for 2 schools. These issues have now been resolved with the contractor to ensure accurate data is provided going forward. Despite this, it is clear that where schools had a key focus and integrated the programmes initiatives into their routine operations, they experienced a sustained reduction as shown below. Average weekly tonnes Pre-pilot During pilot Post pilot School 1 0.101 0.084 0.065 School 2 0.071 0.068 0.037 School 3 0.061 0.058 0.053 However, the pilot also observed schools with a temporary positive impact on reducing food waste. This has been a key learning point and to counter this an Education Learning Resource pack has been developed to ensure sustainability of the project beyond the six week focus period. Average weekly tonnes During pilot Post pilot School 4 0.034 0.053 School 5 0.056 0.068 5. Other projects/initiatives across the service 5.1. Facilities Services operate a pre-order lunch service across all schools and nurseries; therefore, kitchen and counter food waste is minimal. However, to support a sustainable and consistent way to reduce any leftover foods, several initiatives are at an early stage. Photographs from the various projects are shown in Appendix 1. Still Fresh in High Schools In High Schools, the level of food waste is monitored and minimised by utilising a pre- order App for pupils, monitoring waste through a waste tracker and managing the 11
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natural fluctuation of the business. Where there is cold, pre-packaged food left unsold at the end of service, it is passed on safely to pupils and employees to take at no cost from a ‘Still Fresh station’ fridge located within a designated area of the school. This initiative also ties in with the objectives of Education Resources’ ‘Cost of the School Day’ policy. Headquarters Coffee Shop At Headquarters coffee shop, food waste is monitored through planning on the fluctuation of the business as well as a waste tracker. Where there are cold, pre- packaged foods left unsold, a ‘Still Fresh’ station has been installed to pass these on to users of the building. Leftover Foods in Early Years In the Early Years Nursery establishments, all meals and snacks are pre-ordered per the children’s choice of meal. Currently within the 52-week establishments, following service, any cold, un-served foods are packaged and held in a fridge for Early Years staff to manage and distribute as appropriate. 5.2. Digital Menus As part of the annual menu change, the service produces and prints a pictorial menu pack for all 126 primary schools to assist with menu selection and information at site. Since 2018, primary pupils order and secure their lunch choice through Parent Pay via a classroom white board. As part of the move to digital process and reducing paper processes, a pilot has been developed where a presentation of the menu pack and a split screen function allows the pictorial menu pack to be shown alongside the Parent Pay menu selector on the whiteboard. 6. Next Steps 6.1. Engagement with other Local Authorities Following the success of the Waste Warriors project, pupils from St Vincent’s Primary School in East Kilbride attended the Assist Facilities Management conference to present their experience and share why it is important to reduce food waste. The young people were warmly received by conference delegates, and several local authorities across Scotland have shown interest in the initiative. A site visit has already been arranged for Glasgow City Council to view the initiative at St Vincent’s Primary School. 6.2. Assist FM Best Practice Local Authority caterers are at the frontline of the Scottish Government’s vision to be a Good Food Nation where people from every walk of life benefit from the food they produce, buy, cook and eat each day. The Assist FM ‘Scotland’s School Meals in a Good Food Nation’ document highlights the ongoing best practices to enable delivery of the outcomes of the GFN Act. South Lanarkshire Council ‘Waste Warriors’ programme is included within the document as a best practice to create a lasting impact on reducing food waste and fostering environmental consciousness among pupils. 6.3. Education Resources’ ‘Fighting against Food Waste’ Teaching Pack As the success of the programme requires ongoing engagement at site, Facilities Services and Education Resources have worked together to create a comprehensive learning resource pack for primary schools. It outlines tools, objectives, strategies, and outcomes to promote responsible food consumption and waste management. The pack provides data on regional food waste, offering guidelines for educators and students. It supports understanding of the Food Waste Project with Zero Waste 12
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Scotland, encouraging proactive measures and resource efficiency. This pack is crucial for grasping the project’s scope and driving waste reduction efforts. 6.4. Scotland’s Climate Week – 23 to 29 September 2024 The focus of the national initiative is to encourage climate action and to learn more about tackling climate change, share stories and spark new ideas. Facilities ‘Waste Warriors’ initiative will feature as a case study on our internal intranet platform to share the good practice with other council employees. 7. Employee Implications 7.1. There are no employee implications. 8. Financial Implications 8.1. Scales, high visibility waistcoats and promotional pop-up banners were purchased to allow the children to be visible and take full responsibility in measuring, reading and collating the food waste totals. These were met within existing resources within the service. 9. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 9.1. The focus on food waste has the potential to educate and assist to address food insecurity in a dignified and respectful way while reducing food waste. To sustain an improvement, analysis shows us that initiatives like Waste Warriors must be embedded into the curriculum, rather than a short-term project. Work is ongoing with colleagues in Education Resources to develop the learning resource pack. 10. Other Implications 10.1. Failure to develop and meet the Good Food Strategy objectives prevents strengthening a Good Food Culture and Education. 11. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 11.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no equality impact assessment is required. 11.2. There was no requirement for consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 13 September 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes 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 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 13
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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 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:- Isabel Veitch, Facility Services Advisor Tel: 07795090755 E-mail: Isabel.veitch@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 14
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Appendix 1 Waste Warriors in Primary Schools 15
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Focus on Key Food Waste Items Leftover Foods – Still fresh in High School and Headquarters Coffee Shop 16
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Digital Menus 17
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 9 October 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Approval of Forthcoming Public Bodies Climate Change Duties 2023/2024 Report 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] present the timetable for reporting of South Lanarkshire Council’s forthcoming Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Compliance report for 2023/2024, as legally required under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Council’s Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Compliance report for 2023/2024 be presented for approval to the Executive Committee on 13 November 2024; and (2) that the Council’s Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Compliance report be presented for noting to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on 18 December 2024. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The statutory framework for climate action and reporting is outlined by the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 and the Climate Change (Public Duties) (Scotland) Act. 3.2. Section 44 of Part 4 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 states that a public body must, in exercising its functions, act:- in the way best calculated to contribute to the delivery of Scotland’s national emissions reduction targets in the way best calculated to help deliver Scotland’s statutory climate change adaptation programme in a way that it considers is most sustainable 3.3. Public bodies are required to prepare and publish annual reports on their compliance with these duties and submit these reports to the Scottish Government. 3.4. The Council has complied with this statutory reporting requirement every year since its introduction in 2015. Each year, the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee approves the Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Report which is then published on the Council’s website and submitted to the Scottish Government by the due date of 30 November. 4 19
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4. Change to approval process for Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Report 2023/2024 4.1. Due to the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee timetable this year, it is not possible to present the full report to this Committee prior to submission. Instead, it is proposed that the report be submitted for approval at the Council’s Executive Committee meeting on 13 November 2024 and presented to the next meeting of this Committee for noting on 18 December 2024. 4.2. The report will have a similar format to previous years and is based on a template issued by the Scottish Government. It contains 6 sections detailed in the table below. 1 Profile of Reporting Body Provides a better understanding of the scale of activity of the body in addressing climate change in relation to its size 2 Governance, Management and Strategy Organisations should be able to demonstrate a robust system of governance, management and strategy in respect of duties, decision-making and leadership on climate action 3 Emissions, Targets and Projects Provides data on corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions arising from organisational activities including service delivery and the exercise of other functions 4 Adaptation Seeks to establish if the body has assessed the current and future risks climate change presents to its assets, infrastructure, service provision and business continuity. Reporting on action and capacity building; and monitoring and evaluating adaptation progress 5 Procurement Clarify how sustainable procurement policy has had an impact on climate change reduction, reporting and compliance issues 6 Validation Demonstrating internal and/or external validation of data 4.3. A letter from the Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy to all local authorities was received in May 2024, stressing the importance of the Public Bodies Climate Change Duties reporting. A series of workshops have been held with both the Climate Change and Sustainability Steering Group and Officers Group to ensure the Council’s full compliance with the Duties and to help identify areas for improvement. 4.4. The workshops included a session using the Zero Waste Scotland Climate Change Assessment Tool (CCAT) which has been specially devised to assist public sector organisations comply with the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, both in terms of meeting carbon emissions reductions targets and reporting to the Scottish Government. The second session comprised a review of the Council’s targets, strategies and governance using the Sustainable Scotland Network’s Climate Emergency Leadership Checklist. The checklist offers a high-level assessment of where action is needed on embedding climate emergency (and nature) responses, including adaptation and mitigation, in public sector service planning. The results and improvement action identified from both these sessions will be reported in the Public Sector Duties report. 20
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5. Employee Implications 5.1. The Council’s Sustainable Development Officers and Carbon Management Officer prepare the annual Climate Change Duties report in conjunction with relevant Council Resources. The statutory reporting regime has elevated the importance and accountability of climate change reporting within the Council. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. Collection of climate change information is a core management task and, therefore, is absorbed into the daily business operations. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. The Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy outlines the action to meet our climate change duties and has undergone a full Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). This can be found on the Scottish Government’s SEA Gateway database. 8. Other Implications 8.1. The annual statutory reporting requirements have implications for all Resources, however, the following services will have more involvement:- Community and Enterprise Resources - Sustainable Development and Carbon Management, Fleet Services, Environmental Services, Roads and Transportation, Flood Risk Management, Street Lighting, Waste Services, Resilience Support, Countryside and Greenspace, Planning and Building Standards Finance and Corporate Resources – Procurement, Finance (Capital Investment), Risk Management Housing and Technical Resources - Energy Management, Asset Management and Property Services 8.2. ‘Failure to meet sustainable development and climate change objectives’ is one of the top risks for the Council. Without a plan in place and a financial plan to support it then this risk will continue to be one of the Council's top risks. 9. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no equality impact assessment is required. 9.2. There was no requirement for consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. However, consultation will be undertaken with resources as the finalised report is prepared. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 13 September 2024 21
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Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Focused on people and their needs Fair, open and sustainable 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 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 Public Bodies Climate Change Duties annual report 2022/2023, Climate Change and Sustainability Committee, 29 November 2023 List of Background Papers The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Name: Kathryn McCafferty Designation: Carbon Management Officer E-mail: kathryn.mccafferty@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 22
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 9 October 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: Carbon Management Year End Report 2023/2024 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- update the Committee on the year end position with respect to South Lanarkshire Council’s carbon emissions for 2023/2024 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the final year end position in relation to South Lanarkshire Council’s carbon emissions for the year 2023/2024 be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The statutory framework for climate action and reporting is outlined by the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 and the Climate Change (Public Duties) (Scotland) Act. 3.2. Section 44 of Part 4 of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 states that a public body must, in exercising its functions, act:- in the way best calculated to contribute to the delivery of Scotland’s national emissions reduction targets in the way best calculated to help deliver Scotland’s statutory climate change adaptation programme in a way that it considers is most sustainable 3.3. The Scottish Government previously set climate targets within legislation, to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions Scotland-wide by 75% by 2030, 90% by 2040 and 100% from the 1990 baseline by 2045 (that is net zero emissions). On 5 September 2024, the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Target) (Scotland) Bill was published. The Bill seeks to amend the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, in response to the Climate Change Committee’s (CCC) advice that Scotland’s interim emissions reduction target for 2030 was beyond what could be achieved. Whilst the target of net zero emissions by 2045 will not be changed, the Scottish Government is seeking to establish 5-yearly carbon budgets, which are based on the CCC’s recommendations and which are more reflective of the realities of long-term decarbonisation policy planning. These will be based on the latest advice from the CCC (expected in spring 2025). 5 23
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3.4. To measure the Council’s success in exercising the functions outlined at 3.2 and contributing to national targets mentioned at 3.3, the Council’s carbon footprint has been measured and reported annually since 2005/2006. The parameters of the footprint were set following advice from The Carbon Trust as part of the Council’s participation in the Carbon Trust’s Local Authority Carbon Management Programme and its signing of the Scottish Climate Change Declaration in 2006. The scope of the Council’s carbon footprint currently includes emissions from:- Buildings energy Fleet Employee travel Household waste Street lighting 3.5. In order 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 will categorise the Council’s corporate emissions as Scope 1, 2 or 3 emissions. This is the standard for carbon reporting as per the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Standard. A definition of each Scope is outlined below:- Scope 1 (direct emissions): greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel related activities controlled by an organisation. Examples might be emissions from gas boilers in Council leisure centres and emissions from the Council’s own petrol and diesel vehicles Scope 2 (energy indirect): emissions associated with the consumption of purchased electricity, heat, steam, and cooling. Examples might be emissions from lighting in the Council’s primary schools and offices, and from charging Council’s EV fleet vehicles Scope 3 (other indirect emissions): emissions arising from the procurement of goods and services from a third party/contractor. Examples might be emissions from: business travel associated with staff-owned vehicles; household waste; and from the Council’s procurement of goods and services 4. Carbon Management 2023/2024 4.1. The Council’s carbon footprint for 2023/2024 is detailed below and shows a 68.9% reduction since the baseline year 2005/2006. 4.2. This reduction in emissions has been achieved through introduction of numerous energy efficiency measures, the use of renewable technology such as solar PVs, boiler upgrades, introduction of EV vehicles as part of the Council’s fleet, reduction of household waste going to landfill, and increased use of Energy from Waste (EfW) facility, as well as through the decarbonisation of the grid. 4.3. Compared to 2022/2023, the Council’s carbon emissions reduced by 9.46% in 2023/2024. The Council’s carbon emissions for 2023/2024 are detailed in the tables below:- 24
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Carbon Totals 2023/2024 compared to baseline year:- Emissions source Baseline 2005/2006 (Carbon Tonnes) 2023/2024 (Carbon Tonnes) % Variance Buildings (Electricity, Gas, Oil) 69,427 33,541 -51.7% Waste (Household) 61,320 5,945 -90.3% Fleet 10,418 6,967 -33.1% Street Lighting 13,005 1,681 -87.1% Employee Travel 1,795 352 -80.4% Totals 155,965 48,486 -68.9% Carbon Totals 2023/2024 compared to 2022/2023:- Emissions source 2022/2023 (Carbon Tonnes) 2023/2024 (Carbon Tonnes) % Variance Buildings (Electricity, Gas, Oil) 35,178 33,541 -4.66% Waste (Household) 8,625 5,945 -31.07% Fleet 7,848 6,967 -11.23% Street Lighting 1,577 1,681 +6.58% Employee Travel 325 352 +8.45% Totals 53,553 48,486 -9.46% 4.4. The carbon figures are calculated using the Greenhouse Gas Conversion Factors for Company Reporting1 for electricity, gas and waste. These factors are subject to change due to updated data, shifts in energy sources and advancements in methodologies. As a result, the factors can vary from year to year, which can impact the Council’s carbon footprints. 4.5. The charts below show the proportion of the Council’s 2023/2024 carbon footprint allocated to each source and scope:- 1 The GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting are published each year by UK Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero 25
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4.6. Buildings The emissions from energy use in Council buildings reduced by 4.66% in 2023/2024 compared with 2022/2023. 4.6.1 Gas consumption in 2023/2024 decreased by 7.3% compared with 2022/2023 resulting in a reduction in emissions of 7.6%. This decrease was in part due to the Council Headquarters being shut in July for two weeks, a later start date for the school heating switch-on, and a relaxation of Covid ventilation measures. The combined heat and power unit at Dollan Leisure Centre was also offline for part of the year, which would have reduced the amount of gas used at this site. 4.6.2. While electricity consumption also decreased by 6%, a 7.1% increase in the carbon conversion factor for electricity has resulted in an increase in emissions from electricity use of 0.7% 4.6.3. As noted in previous reports on this topic, delivery of various projects such as the installation of voltage optimisers, solar PV systems and upgrading lighting with LEDs via the CEEF program have contributed to the reduction in electricity consumption. 4.6.4. The emissions from oil for heating increased slightly by 0.53% in 2023/2024 compared to the previous year, however, there has been an overall decrease of 86.3% when compared to the baseline year of 2005. 4.7. Waste The carbon emissions associated with the household waste have reduced significantly by 31.1% in 2023 compared with 2022. Waste figures are reported per calendar year. 4.7.1. The amount of waste being processed at the Energy from Waste (EfW) facility, as an alternative to landfill, continues to increase, contributing to this reduction in emissions. The carbon associated with waste processed at EfW facilities is much less than if the waste had been landfilled. The household recycling rate also increased by 2.88% compared to 2022. 26
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4.7.2. Work is continuing to increase recycling facilities for households and reduce recycling contamination rates where possible. 4.8. Fleet Emissions An emissions reduction of 11.2% was achieved from fleet vehicles in 2023/2024 compared with 2022/2023. This figure relates to all the Council’s Fleet ICE vehicles (internal combustion engine vehicles powered by oil derived resources such as petrol or diesel) which are reported as Scope 1 emissions. South Lanarkshire’s Fleet consists of 40 vehicle types performing a wide range of tasks including refuse collection, mechanical sweeping, passenger transport and non-EV pool cars. 4.8.1. This decrease is due to the overall reduction in the Fleet size in 2023/2024 compared with 2022/2023 and the procurement of 50 modern commercial vehicles that offer improved fuel efficiency. 4.9. Staff Travel and EV Pool cars There was an emissions increase of 8.45% from staff travel in 2023/2024 which includes electric pool car usage (Scope 2 emissions), and staff travel claims (Scope 3 emissions). 4.9.1. The increase is a result of greater use of the electric pool cars, an extra 300,000 miles were travelled in electric pool cars in 2023/2024 compared to the previous year. 40 of the EV pool cars are now embedded in departments which accounts for the increase in mileage for 2023/2024. Staff are also being encouraged to use the electric pool cars whenever possible as the emissions from EVs are much less than the emissions from ICE vehicles. 4.10. Street lighting Electricity consumption from street lighting decreased slightly by 0.064%, however, carbon emissions increased by 6.6%. This is due to the 7.1% increase in the carbon conversion factors for electricity as reported in 4.3. 5. 2024/2025 Carbon Emissions and Beyond 5.1. Each year, the Council agrees a short-term carbon reduction target for the year ahead. It was agreed at the Corporate Management Team meeting on 21 March 2024 that a defined carbon percentage reduction target could not be set for 2024/2025, and instead the Council should aim to reduce as much as possible compared with previous years. It was also agreed that waste and water from council buildings and home working emissions would be added to the Council carbon management reporting from 2024/2025. 5.2. Whilst the Council has a zero direct emissions (scope 1) target by 2038, it does not have a route-map in place to achieve this target. The Sustainability Team is currently working with Resources to develop a forthcoming committee report which takes a longer term view on the likelihood of Council services meeting national carbon reduction targets. This will outline key national carbon reduction targets and legislation for those individual Services (namely Property, Fleet and Waste) who contribute most to Council carbon emissions, and their next steps in reducing carbon emissions in the medium to long term. 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, including carbon reduction action and targets, are met. The Council’s Sustainable 27
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Development Officers and Carbon Management Officer monitor and report the Council’s progress. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. As previously reported, carbon reduction up to now has been achieved within current budgets and from ad hoc capital funds, however, further financial investment outwith the Council’s current and projected resources will be required for the Council to contribute to the challenging national net zero and zero direct carbon targets and global sustainable development goals. 7.2. The amended order for the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 introduced a Statutory Instrument highlighting the need to report how we align spending plans and use of resources to contribute to meeting our carbon emission reduction targets. This was introduced from 2020/2021 onwards and is required to be included in the annual climate change report due to be submitted in November 2024. 8. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. The carbon management process demonstrates the Council’s commitment to contribute to national targets and to the global sustainable development goals. 8.2. To achieve the Council’s climate change commitments, significant action and investment is required to reduce operational emissions as soon as possible. More impactful measures to reduce and / or mitigate carbon emissions would need to be progressed to meet the statutory targets. 9. Other Implications 9.1. ‘Failure to meet sustainable development and climate change objectives’ is one of the top risks for the Council. Without a plan in place and a financial plan to support it then this risk will continue to be one of the Council's top risks. 10. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 10.1. Consultation has been undertaken with all relevant Council Resources in the preparation of this report. 10.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no equality impact assessment is required. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 13 September 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Fair, open and sustainable We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Caring, connected, sustainable communities 28
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Previous References Carbon Management Interim Update Report, Climate Change and Sustainability Committee, 5 May 2024 List of Background Papers The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022 to 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:- Name: Kathryn McCafferty Designation: Carbon Management Officer E-mail: kathryn.mccafferty@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 29
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 9 October 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) Subject: South Lanarkshire Council - Climate Week 2024 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide the Committee with an update on the work undertaken by South Lanarkshire Council in support of Climate Week 2024 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s): - [recs] (1) that the content of this report in respect to climate action initiatives during Climate Week 2024 be noted. 3. Background 3.1. In June 2024, in a letter to South Lanarkshire Council’s Chief Executive, the Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy confirmed Climate Week 2024 was to take place between 23-29 September 2024 and encouraged public sector organisations to get involved. In this invitation to participate, the Cabinet Secretary underlined the devastating impact that climate change is already having in Scotland, and the importance of taking action to tackle climate change. Public sector organisations were encouraged to work to deepen understanding, underline the impact of collective action, and encourage further progress to help Scotland transition to net zero. The Scottish Government provided local authorities with a partner’s toolkit which provided advice and material to support the aims of Climate Week 2024. 3.2. Scotland has committed to becoming a net zero nation by 2045. Expert advice has been clear that 62% of changes needed to achieve net zero can only happen with societal or individual behaviour change. It is, therefore, vital that everyone in our society understands the nature and scale of the climate emergency. 3.3. Recognising that public engagement is central to tackling the impacts of climate change, the Climate Change – Net Zero Nation; Public Engagement Strategy, published in September 2021, set out the Scottish Government’s overarching framework for engaging the people of Scotland in the transition to a net zero nation by 2045. The Strategic Objectives of the framework are:- Understand – Communicate Climate Change and how it relates to people’s lives. 6 31
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Participate – Enable Participation in shaping just, fair and inclusive policies that promote mitigation and promotion of climate change. Act – Encourage taking climate action in households, communities and places. 3.4. Aligning with these 3 priorities, the Council’s Sustainability Team planned a programme of engagement initiatives that were delivered during Climate Week 2024. Focusing on the identified theme of ‘climate stories’, the Council’s Climate Week activity highlighted the ways that climate change, both as a challenge and opportunity for action, is impacting upon our lives. The Council’s approach aimed to set a positive tone whilst underlining the urgency of action, and so the approach taken celebrated successes, discussed the challenges, and shared tips, information and stories designed to help others take action. The Council’s Climate Week programme was scheduled and coordinated by the Sustainability Team in collaboration with the Council’s Communications team and other Services across the Council, with input from key external stakeholders. 4. South Lanarkshire Council Ambitions for Climate Week 2024 4.1. Aligning with the Scottish Government’s overarching theme and aims for Climate Week 2024, a programme of communications, activities, and events were planned and delivered. The Council’s Climate Week initiatives were designed with the core ambitions of deepening understanding, encouraging action, and inspiring further progress, echoing the priorities outlined in the Scottish Government’s call to action. To achieve this, the following aims were established:- 4.2. Deepen Understanding explain what Climate Week is and its purpose showcase what the Council is doing to work towards a lower carbon and more sustainable society increase climate literacy amongst Council employees showcase activities and groups that exist locally which are helping build a sustainable South Lanarkshire showcase South Lanarkshire as a sustainable tourist destination 4.3. Encourage Action inspire and encourage local business action through knowledge sharing promote Climate Week 2024 work being carried out by partners, fostering strong collaborative working highlight the projects that have been supported through the Council’s Climate Emergency and Resilience Fund raise awareness among residents of sustainability focused groups and activities available across South Lanarkshire inspire personal action towards living a more sustainable lifestyle 4.4. Further Progress promote shared responsibility for achieving a sustainable South Lanarkshire – everyone has a stake, and everyone can make a difference promote the business carbon baseline studies available through a partner organisation celebrate progress made so far and encourage continued momentum 5. South Lanarkshire Council’s Climate Week 2024 Activity 5.1. During Climate Week 2024, the Council implemented a range of activities, including social media campaigns, community events, staff training, and targeted communications. The programme was concentrated around the official Climate Week 32
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dates, but also extended throughout the month of September to maximise reach and impact. 5.2. The programme ensured that a wide range of audiences, including residents, community groups, local businesses, and Council employees, as well as young people, third sector, South Lanarkshire school communities, and residents across the central belt were engaged through various channels and events. Thus, driving the overarching goal of promoting climate action across South Lanarkshire. These initiatives aimed to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and inspire collective action toward a more sustainable South Lanarkshire, in line with the Scottish Government's call to action. The initiatives are outlined in more detail below. 5.3. VIEW Articles During Climate Week 2024, 5 VIEW articles were published to highlight key projects and initiatives within the local authority. These daily articles shared stories from various local groups and projects, including the Cambuslang Apiary, Universal Connection’s Nowhere to Grow Project, the Clyde Climate Forest, Clyde Cycle Park SCIO, and the Douglasdale REAL Group's Community Woodland. The articles celebrated the success of these projects, emphasised their benefits, showcased photos, and highlighted the ways we can get involved in climate action. By casting a spotlight on these local efforts, the VIEW articles aimed to inspire broader community engagement and demonstrate the tangible impacts of collective action on climate change. All VIEW articles were also shared widely on the Council’s social media. 5.4. Social Media During Climate Week 2024, a series of social media activities were executed to raise awareness and foster engagement with the broader community on climate action. Posts were shared across Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn platforms, with a timeline beginning one month prior to the event. Initial posts aimed to raise awareness about the upcoming Climate Week 2024 and other sustainability related initiatives including Second Hand September, and the Lanarkshire Climate Hub's Climate Festival. During Climate Week, content focused on the "Stories for Change" theme, including sharing infographics about the success of the Climate Emergency and Resilience Fund grants and a video highlighting upgrades to active travel paths between Coalburn and Lesmahagow. Climate Week also featured a video showcase of the Biggar Food Growing Group. Since Climate Week, social media engagement has focused on maintaining momentum by promoting Net Zero Scotland resources, ensuring continued public awareness beyond the designated week. 5.5. Events A series of events were organised to engage different sectors of the South Lanarkshire community in meaningful discussions and actions related to climate change. Notably, a business innovation event hosted by South Lanarkshire College in collaboration with the Council and Business Gateway. The event provided local businesses with advice on implementing innovative environmentally positive changes. The event also served as a platform for the Council to inform businesses of the opportunity to access a free carbon baseline assessment for their business. Additionally, the Sustainability Team participated in a Conservation Day at Westburn Marsh Local Nature Reserve. This event not only supported the maintenance of outdoor spaces but also provided an opportunity to promote future conservation efforts and encourage greater community participation. 33
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5.6. Staff Training To enhance organisational climate literacy, there was promotion of the Council’s climate emergency training modules during Climate Week 2024 to encourage more Council staff and elected members to participate. The aim was to deepen understanding of climate issues within the Council, empowering staff to better integrate climate considerations into their daily operations and decision-making processes. This focus on training was part of a broader strategy to embed climate awareness across all levels of the Council, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to contribute to meeting key priorities set out in the Council’s Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022 to 2027. 5.7. Other Actions Additional initiatives during Climate Week 2024 included a targeted outreach to schools and young people. A flyer was issued to all Head Teachers via the Council’s Primary Science and Sustainability Development Officer, promoting activities associated with Climate Week and Second-Hand September. Moreover, officers from the Sustainability Team attended the Junior Road Safety Officer event at Chatelherault Country Park, where they engaged with young people to raise awareness on climate action and encourage them to share actions they have taken in school and at home. To further promote sustainability, press releases were issued in September highlighting South Lanarkshire as a destination for green tourism. These efforts aimed to encourage climate consciousness in the younger generation and the wider community, promoting a culture of sustainability across South Lanarkshire. 5.8. A table fully detailing the Council’s Climate Week 2024 communications and activities can be found in Appendix 1. 6. Next steps 6.1. Climate Week provided an opportunity to refocus attention on climate change and the environment by engaging with identified core audiences and stakeholders. The Sustainability Team will incorporate lessons learned from Climate Week into its Sustainability Communications Plan. Wider community engagement will continue to be supported through the Lanarkshire Climate Action Hub whose Climate Festival (September 9 to 22) was actively promoted on the Council’s social media channels. This fosters a collaborative approach to climate action engagement throughout South Lanarkshire. 6.2. Future work in this area includes a Council Climate Change and Sustainability branding redesign and launch. The rebrand will focus on highlighting the co-benefits of climate change and encouraging climate action. A new logo will be co-created with the Youth Forum. 7. Employee Implications 7.1. The development and coordination of the Council’s programme of communications and activities for Climate Week 2024 required significant input of staff time. However, it is anticipated that the structure and programme developed this year can be used in future years. 8. Financial Implications 8.1. The communication initiatives detailed in this report were carried out within the scope of existing Resource budgets. There was no requirement for additional budget. 34
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9. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 9.1. Engaging in climate education and promotion helps Community and Enterprise Resource to meet some of the priorities outlined in the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy. These include:- influence change through improving the understanding of Sustainable Development and the Climate Emergency across South Lanarkshire empower communities to take climate action and be more environmentally sustainable support South Lanarkshire’s businesses in the transition to a net-zero economy and helping to ensure they are climate resilient 9.2. The Council has a statutory duty under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 to:- reduce carbon emissions from its activities and influence the reduction of carbon emissions in the wider community take action to adapt to the impacts caused by the effects of climate change – in our local communities, on our buildings, infrastructure, service delivery and the natural environment to act sustainably in everything it does as a Council 9.3. Delivery of continued climate action activities such as Climate Week 2024 supports the Council in meeting its statutory duties. 10. Other Implications 10.1. Failure to meet sustainable development and climate change objectives’ is one of the top risks for the Council. 11. Equality Impact Assessment and Consultation Arrangements 11.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy. As a result, no impact assessment is required. 11.2. In preparation for Climate Week, the Sustainability Team consulted with the Communications Team and many other Council services to coordinate initiatives engaging a diverse range of stakeholders – residents, businesses, schools, and community groups – to promote climate action. The Team also consulted out with the organisation, working with the Lanarkshire Climate Action Hub. David Booth Executive Director (Community and Enterprise Resources) 13 September 2024 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Focused on people and their needs Fair, open and sustainable We will work towards a sustainable future in sustainable places We will work to recover, progress and improve Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Thriving business, fair jobs and vibrant town centres Caring, connected, sustainable communities 35
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People live the healthiest lives possible Inspiring learners, transforming learning, strengthening partnerships Previous References None List of Background Papers The Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Climate Change – Net Zero Nation; Public Engagement Strategy Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy 2022 to 2027 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: Gemma Dodds, Sustainable Development Officer E-mail: gemma.dodds@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 36
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Appendix 1 Schedule of South Lanarkshire Council Climate Week initiatives Comms activity Content Audience Date VIEW Climate Stories Share the benefits, share photos and share tips 1. Cambuslang Apiary 2. Nowhere to Grow Project 3. Clyde Climate Forest 4. Clyde Cycle Park SCIO 5. Douglasdale REAL Group – Community Woodland Residents of South Lanarkshire Third Sector Community groups SLC employees 23 to 27 September Social media posts (X, Facebook and Linkedin) Share the benefits, share photos and share tips #ScotClimateWeek and #LetsDoNetZero Before 1. One month prior to Climate Week share a post to raise awareness 2. Introduce Second Hand September 3. Reshare content prior to and during Lanarkshire Climate Hub’s Climate Festival 4. Prior to Climate Week share events happening during Climate Week and introduce Climate Week 5. Repost relevant content shared under #ScotClimateWeek and #LetsDoNetZero During 1. Stories for change – introduction and encourage discussion 2. Climate Emergency Fund grant infographics 3. Active travel paths between Coalburn and Lesmahagow 4. Videos showcasing Biggar Food Growing Group 5. Reposting social media posts shared under #ScotClimateWeek hashtag After 1. Encourage continued momentum by sharing Net Zero Scotland resources and relevant posts from other partner organisations Residents of South Lanarkshire Community groups Third sector 2 to 27 September 37
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Business Gateway Event Business Innovation event organised by South Lanarkshire College in conjunction with Business Gateway and SLC Economic Development Team. SLC will be in attendance to provide information on opportunities for businesses to complete a carbon baseline study for free. Event held at South Lanarkshire College East Kilbride Campus Local Businesses Wednesday 25 September Climate Change Training Internal push to encourage more staff members and elected members to complete climate literacy training. SLC employees Elected members Climate Change Officers Group Climate Change Steering Group 19 to 27 September Press Releases: Green Tourism in South Lanarkshi re News articles during/on the lead up to Climate Week promoting South Lanarkshire as a destination for green tourism. Articles will then be shared on social media. Media Wider central belt residents 2 articles released at separate intervals in September Intranet Posts • Chief Executive’s blog post 19 September • Intranet story published on 23 September launching Climate Week with a spotlight on facilities ‘waste warriors’ initiative SLC Employees 19 to 23 September Education outreach Advertise Climate Week and second-hand September via Learning for Sustainability lead, issuing a flyer to all Head Teachers promoting activities during the week. Attend Junior Road Safety Officer event at Chatelherault Country Park to discuss and raise awareness of climate action. Young people SLC school staff Wednesday 28 August Tuesday 17 September Conservat ion Day Sustainability and Climate Change Team attend Westburn Marsh Local Nature Reserve Conservation Day to support continued access to outdoor spaces to help with maintenance. Young people SLC employees SL residents Tuesday 24 September Scottish Governme nt update email Share a highlight of key plans with Scottish Government prior to Climate Week via email. Scottish Government Wednesday 18 September 38