Our aim is to reduce emissions we generate to net-zero by 2032 or sooner and to help the rest of Derbyshire reduce carbon emissions generated within the county to net zero by 2050 or sooner in line with government targets.
Our net zero target
Net zero means reducing our carbon emissions right down to the lowest possible level and off-setting those that can't be cut by measures to absorb excess carbon from the atmosphere, such as planting more trees and other forms of habitat creation, making the overall net emissions zero.
How the climate is changing
Global warming is likely to reach at least 1.5°C between 2030 and 2052 (compared to pre-industrial levels) if warming continues to increase at the current rate. We need to act now to keep UK temperatures and rainfall close to manageable levels and avoid further, potentially more catastrophic, impacts.
The UK's climate is already showing signs of change:
- average annual temperatures are now around 1°C warmer than the pre-industrial period
- the 10 warmest years since 1884 have all occurred since 2002
- average annual rainfall levels have increased by 5% since 1961 to 1990
- the average number of annual days with very heavy rainfall have increased by 17% from 1961 to 1990
- whilst we have experienced some heavy snow events in recent years (in 2018, 2013, 2010 and 2009), they have happened less often since the 1960s
- sea levels around the UK have risen by an average of 17cm since the start of the 20th century
How we tackle climate change
We're already seeing the impacts of climate change, but the level of global warming we reach and by when will depend primarily on the concentration of carbon emissions (and other greenhouse gases) in the atmosphere.
Action on climate change and reducing emissions has many benefits to residents and communities in Derbyshire. It can reduce our energy consumption, lower energy bills, and unlock low carbon technologies and innovation to support local employment.
Climate change action can also help our health and wellbeing by reducing fuel poverty, avoiding flood damage costs and disruption, enhancing green spaces and improving air quality.
At a local level, reducing the amount of carbon emissions generated in Derbyshire is important and a priority focus for us, but it isn't something we can do on our own. We need the whole county to get involved.
With our partners, we're working with people in communities, businesses, local councils, interest groups across Derbyshire and the UK government to play our part and reduce carbon emissions in Derbyshire to net zero.
Find out how we will achieve carbon zero and how you can get involved.
As well as reducing emissions, we need to be better prepared to deal with the effects of a changing climate. Severe weather, such as heat waves, storms and heavy and prolonged rainfall, has significant effects on our infrastructure, buildings and the natural environment. To protect these, we need to take action to make sure our infrastructure is robust and our biodiversity and natural resources are protected and enhanced.
Find out what needs to happen to help us adapt to climate change in Derbyshire.