£2 million pledged to accelerate climate emergency action in Suffolk

04/12/23
A further £2million has been pledged by Suffolk Public Sector Leaders to tackle the climate emergency.

A further £2million has been pledged by Suffolk Public Sector Leaders to tackle the climate emergency and help the county achieve its net zero ambitions.

The money will be used on a variety of projects to bring in low carbon transport, sustainable homes, and cleaner power for the county. It will also be used to support communities and businesses with environmental initiatives.

SPSL, which includes Babergh and Mid Suffolk, had previously committed £1.5 million to support the delivery of the Suffolk Climate Emergency Plan, which sets out the steps partners need to take to make sure the county was on the path to net zero.

That funding was used to support community climate action, technical support for community energy groups, homeowner energy efficiency, a net zero innovation fund for businesses, and development of Suffolk’s electric vehicle charging network.

Following the latest funding, Councillor Neil MacDonald, SPSL chair, said:
 
“Suffolk becoming net zero is a long-term objective, and Suffolk Public Sector Leaders are pleased to be able to support such an important initiative, which continues to deliver demonstrable results. This funding will support the delivery of various projects throughout 2024 and 2025, as well as engaging with key stakeholders.”
 
Councillor Gerald Kelly, chair of the Local Authority Environment Portfolio Holders Group, said:
 
“From helping residents to live in warmer homes that are more affordable to heat, improving our energy security, air quality and general health, strengthening community cohesion and creating job opportunities in emerging sectors, action around climate change is about so much more than reducing carbon emissions. 

“This additional funding from SPSL will enable us to realise many more such benefits for everyone in Suffolk.”

The Suffolk Public Sector Leaders group was formed in 2009 to consider issues of strategic importance to the county. From inclusive economic growth and community safety to climate change and strong communities, its priorities are focussed where collaborative action delivers the biggest benefits. 

Net zero