Climate change

We employ more than 3,000 employees across 130 offices, depots and buildings and we maintain a fleet of 400+ vehicles.

Since 2008 we have seen the carbon emissions associated with the operation of our service buildings, fleet and street lighting reduce by over 65%, but we estimate our current gas, electricity and fuel consumption is still responsible for emitting 18,500 tonnes of carbon a year.

A renewed programme of energy efficiency and decarbonisation measures will reduce this level over the decade.

By investing in measures to remove or offset any residual emissions, net zero will be within our reach.

We are the landlord for nearly 18,000 homes; 17% of all dwellings in the city. We estimate these households are responsible for emitting 42,000 tonnes of carbon a year.

By improving insulation, making our stock more energy efficient and less reliant on fossil fuels, we can significantly reduce the emissions associated with essentials like heating and hot water. Plus our tenants’ energy bills will be reduced.

We are already committed to spending £30M of energy saving measures on our Housing stock over the next five years. This will save 3,000 tonnes of carbon emissions and £2.5M off tenants heating bills per year.

The UK has adopted a legally binding target to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

Southampton’s emissions have fallen by approximately 50% since 2005.

Estimates indicate that the city is still responsible for 800,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year and will need to reduce this by a further 12% by 2025 to keep on track with UK government targets.

This challenge presents an exciting opportunity to create jobs and prosperity in our city. Follow our lead, let’s get ahead and together we can be at the forefront of the green economy.