carbon neutrality
Councils are currently addressing rising purchasing emissions and integrating carbon-neutral goals into housing development.
Southwark Council's Executive committee received an update in October 2026 on its Climate Change Strategy, revealing a 10% rise in emissions from council purchasing activities (Scope 3) between 2023 and 2024. This increase, from 338 ktCO2e to 371 ktCO2e, occurred despite a 6% borough-wide emissions decrease and a 3% fall in council operational emissions.
In March 2026, Westminster Council's Shareholder Committee reviewed the 2026/27 business plan for Westminster Builds, which aims to deliver affordable homes with carbon-neutral goals. Separately, Southwark Council's Planning Committee considered a draft Local Listed Building Consent Order in July 2025 to streamline solar panel installation on Grade II listed properties, aligning with the council's 2030 carbon neutrality commitment.
Carbon neutrality refers to achieving a balance between carbon dioxide emitted and removed from the atmosphere, also known as net-zero carbon emissions. Councils are working towards this goal by implementing strategies to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.
Key facts
- Southwark Council's Scope 3 emissions from purchasing activities rose by 10% between 2023 and 2024. Source
- Southwark Council's Scope 3 emissions increased from 338 ktCO2e to 371 ktCO2e. Source
- Westminster Builds' 2026/27 business plan outlines delivering affordable homes with carbon-neutral goals. Source
- Southwark Council's Planning Committee considered a draft order in July 2025 to streamline solar panel installation. Source
- Southwark Council aims for carbon neutrality by 2030. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 14 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.