Sunday, May 24, 2009

Government Carbon Footprint Blueprint in Sheffield

We’ve seen quite a few local government carbon footprint initiatives over the past few years, it makes good sense politically to announce some sort of proactive plan of action. To that end, a blueprint has been announced in Sheffield that outlines how the city can reduce its carbon footprint by up to 30%.

The report has been constructed to focus on housing, business and transport and advises residents how they can contribute. One of those initiatives is for the home owner to be able to hire a smart meter to check energy use. The thinking being that if you are aware of the level of energy you have used you will be in a position to take steps to cut back.

Also contained within the guide is the suggestion to generate more of the city’s electricity locally and to provide a new public transport infrastructure.

The council has already invested in a project where council services and staff are using electric and gas powered vehicles.

Councillor Shaffaq Mohammed, cabinet member for climate change and local environment, said: "We recognise that we cannot reduce the amount of carbon used in the city overnight, but by working together with residents and businesses we can make a big difference."

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