Establishing KPIs

Setting clear and measurable KPIs helps councils track progress and evaluate the impact of their climate initiatives. These should be specific, achievable, and aligned with national and local climate goals.

Key Climate KPIs for Councils:

• Carbon Emissions Reduction: Percentage reduction in CO2 emissions from council operations, transport, and energy use.

• Renewable Energy Adoption: Increase in renewable energy installations on public buildings or within the community.

• Energy Efficiency: Reduction in council building energy consumption through insulation, heating upgrades, and LED lighting.

• Biodiversity Enhancement: Increase in tree cover, wildflower meadows, and pollinator-friendly areas.

• Waste Reduction: Percentage decrease in council and community waste going to landfill.

• Sustainable Transport Uptake: Growth in EV charging point usage, active travel participation, and public transport adoption.

• Community Engagement: Number of residents involved in sustainability events, workshops, or local initiatives.

Useful links:

• UK Government Climate Indicators

• Carbon Trust Sustainability Performance Metrics

Tracking Progress

Using data-driven tools helps councils measure progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust strategies accordingly.

Recommended Monitoring Tools:

• Impact Community Carbon Calculator – Allows councils to assess local carbon emissions and reduction opportunities.

• The Carbon Trust Footprint Calculator – Provides methods to track carbon emissions in buildings, transport, and waste.

• Biodiversity Net Gain Monitoring – Helps councils track habitat improvements and biodiversity restoration.

• Gloucestershire Recycles – Waste and Recycling Data – Tracks local waste diversion and recycling rates.

Actions for Councils:

• Set up a regular data collection system to track energy use, transport emissions, waste reduction, and biodiversity efforts.

• Use geospatial mapping to assess tree cover, green spaces, and nature recovery areas.

• Work with local universities or citizen science groups to collect real-time environmental data.

• Report findings at public meetings to ensure transparency and community involvement.

Reporting on Progress

Regular reporting ensures accountability and builds public trust. It also allows councils to highlight successes, share lessons learned, and secure further funding.

Actions for Councils:

• Publish an Annual Climate Action Report, detailing:

1. Achievements in emissions reduction, renewable energy adoption, and biodiversity restoration.

2. Progress towards KPIs, using clear graphs and statistics.

3. Case studies of successful community-led projects.

4. Areas for improvement and next steps.

• Host public meetings or webinars to discuss the report and gather feedback.

• Share updates via council websites, newsletters, and social media.

• Ensure climate progress is reviewed at Full Council meetings.

Useful links:

• Climate Action Reporting Guidance – Friends of the Earth

• Local Government Association – Best Practices for Sustainability Reporting

Updating the Action Plan

A Climate Action Plan should not be static—it must evolve based on scientific advancements, policy changes, and local needs.

Actions for Councils:

• Review the Climate Action Plan annually to assess progress and update objectives.

• Gather community feedback through surveys, public meetings, and workshops.

• Adjust policies based on new government climate targets or funding opportunities.

• Incorporate innovative technologies such as battery storage, hydrogen power, or AI-based energy management.

• Collaborate with other councils, and local organisations to adopt best practices.

Useful links:

• NALC Climate Action Resources

• The Great Collaboration – Tracking Local Climate Progress

• UK Climate Change Committee – Adaptation Reports