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2021 Plan Scorecards Methodology

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Table of content

What have we marked? Developing the Scoring System Scoring Process Weighting Presentation Scoring system Glossary

What have we marked?

In this pilot project we have only marked councils' Climate Action Plans. These Scorecards do not take into account any action that councils may have underway.

In future years we plan to assess councils on the actual steps they are taking towards eliminating their climate emissions. However, this preparatory work is vital, as a strong plan is the first step towards taking robust climate action over a sustained period of time — and without a plan it is impossible for residents to participate in the democratic process of holding their councils to account.

To create the Council Climate Plan Scorecards we have marked UK councils' climate action plans, strategies and, if relevant, drafts of these documents. We have also marked other related plans and strategies if they are either mentioned in the Climate Action Plan or linked to from the same webpage as the Climate Action Plan. Examples of these extra plans include separate Biodiversity Plans and emissions data documents. We have not marked only environmental policies, update reports or Climate Action Plans written by independent organisations unless they have been officially adopted by the council as their own plan. We have marked plans that were written after September 2015 and were publicly available on the council’s website on or before 20 September 2021.

Developing the Scoring System

Checklist

Climate Emergency UK’s Climate Action Plan Checklist, created in partnership with Friends of the Earth, Centre for Alternative Technology, Ashden and APSE Energy, outlines the recommended contents of a strong Climate Action Plan. The scoring system used in compiling the Scorecards was based on this checklist.

Consultations and feedback

During the development of the scoring system, Climate Emergency UK held three consultations in which nearly 200 councillors, council officers, climate action campaigners and organisations were invited to comment on the process. In these sessions we delved into the details of the questions used to score against, explored how to make this process useful and manageable for councils and discussed the presentation of the data.

A survey on how the data should be presented was also sent to approx. 700 councillors and council officers who were not able to attend the events. This asked questions about how the data should be presented, for example:

  • What do you think about us displaying a single overall score for each council?
  • Do you think it’s useful to display the breakdown of category scores?
  • What filters should be included?

Based on the feedback received from these sessions, the questions were refined to produce the final checklist. The right of reply was established as part of this process and it was decided that scores would be displayed by council type. Each council will only be compared with others that have similar responsibilities. For example, all district councils are grouped together and can be compared to one another but can not be compared with county councils.

Scoring Process

First Marking

A team of around 120 trained volunteers marked all the Council Climate Action plans in the UK using the scoring system described above.

Right of Reply

All councils in the UK were sent the scoring questions along with the first mark of their plan. They could see which questions had received points, but they couldn’t see individual scores for questions or their overall score. All councils, including those without a plan, were given a right of reply. Councils had three weeks to respond and highlight any mistakes in the first mark. Almost 50% of councils with a Climate Action Plan responded to the Right of Reply.

Scoring Audit

During the scoring audit a team of around 25 highly trained volunteers and CEUK staff reviewed the first mark alongside the council's right of reply. All plans were audited regardless of whether the council responded to the right of reply.

Weighting

Some of the sections have more questions than others, but, those sections with fewer questions are not significantly less important. To address this, a light-touch weighting system, as in the table below, has been applied to ensure each section's true value is reflected.

SectionMaximum points available in this sectionPercent of final score that this section would naturally account forWeighted percentageSwitch to weighted from score change
Governance, Development and Funding212715%-12
Mitigation and Adaptation182315%-8
Commitment and Integration7915%6
Community Engagement and Communications91215%3
Measuring and Setting Emissions Targets5610%4
Co-Benefits455%0
Diversity and Social Inclusion5610%4
Education, Skills and Training5610%4
Ecological Emergency455%6
Governance, Development and Funding
Maximum points available in this section 21
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 27
Weighted percentage 15
Switch to weighted from score change -12
Mitigation and Adaptation
Maximum points available in this section 18
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 23
Weighted percentage 15
Switch to weighted from score change -8
Commitment and Integration
Maximum points available in this section 7
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 9
Weighted percentage 15
Switch to weighted from score change 6
Community Engagement and Communications
Maximum points available in this section 9
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 12
Weighted percentage 15
Switch to weighted from score change 3
Measuring and Setting Emissions Targets
Maximum points available in this section 5
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 6
Weighted percentage 10
Switch to weighted from score change 4
Co-Benefits
Maximum points available in this section 4
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 5
Weighted percentage 5
Switch to weighted from score change 0
Diversity and Social Inclusion
Maximum points available in this section 5
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 6
Weighted percentage 10
Switch to weighted from score change 4
Education, Skills and Training
Maximum points available in this section 5
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 6
Weighted percentage 10
Switch to weighted from score change 4
Ecological Emergency
Maximum points available in this section 4
Percent of final score that this section would naturally account for 5
Weighted percentage 5
Switch to weighted from score change 0

Presentation

The feedback we received from councils and campaigners was carefully considered as we made decisions around the presentation of the Council Climate Plan Scorecards.

‘Type of Council’ Lists

We recognise that different councils have different powers, as laid out by the Institute for Government. To ensure that comparisons are meaningful, the Scorecard data has been divided into five lists:

  • 181 District councils
  • 182 Single tier councils (English unitary councils and metropolitan districts, Scottish and Welsh councils)
  • 24 County councils
  • 11 Combined authorities
  • 11 Northern Irish councils

This means that only councils holding the same responsibilities can be compared.

Climate Scorecards filter

There are five ‘leagues’. Filters are ways of subdividing leagues further. Not all filters apply to all leagues (league too small, doesn’t make conceptual sense to divide), the same filter may have different groupings in different leagues (population bandings are different to reflect different population of different kinds of council)

Download the source code that constructs the five ‘leagues’

Index of multiple deprivation

For two leagues (non-metropolitan districts, and single-tier), there is an index of multiple deprivation filters. This divides councils in each league into five quintiles, based on the multiple-deprivation ranking of a council in the group.

The county council leagues are split into two groupings of 12.

As the single-tier league contains different nations, this is based on mySociety’s composite UK index of multiple deprivation for small areas. This is converted to a score for authority using the method in the English Index of Multiple Deprivation Research Report (pg. 69).

Political control (Jan 2022)

This filter uses data from Open Council Data UK to get the current overall control for councils and allow plans to be compared within the same kind of political control. This is overall control as of Dec 2021, and may not reflect control when the plan was written.

Population

Local governments in the UK cover very different sizes of population. This filter groups councils into broad bands of populations. Different leagues have different bands because there are different distributions of population. This approach tries to create useful groupings of population size, so that councils are in general more similar to each other inside the group.

Rural Urban Cluster

Councils across the UK are grouped into four different groups: Urban, Urban with rural areas, Rural, as well as Sparse and Rural. These groupings have been made from a combination of rural/urban classifications for small areas across England, Wales and Scotland.

Region/Nation

Region/Nation of the UK.

Councils type

Some leagues (single tier/combined authority) combine multiple types of local government. This filter lets you just look at a single type of local government.

Top Performers

The highest scoring councils of each type and category have been marked ‘Top Performers’ in recognition of the hard work that goes into creating a goodAction Plan. Some councils are putting admirable efforts into their commitments to tackling climate change and it is only right that this should be acknowledged.

The top performing councils in each scoring table have a star next to their name. In addition, this mark of recognition is displayed on the individual councils' pages, which also show if that council is a top performer within any of the categories.

Scoring system

The scoring system consists of: 9 sections, comprising 28 questions which together contain 73 sub-points.

78 marks are available for all councils, with the exception of County Councils and Combined Authorities where 76 marks are available as question 11 does not apply.

There are more marks than there are sub-points because some questions are worth more than 1 point.

Sections

Section 1 - Governance, Development and Funding

Section 1 examines who will lead the plan, the net-zero targets, the council’s commitment to the plan, funding and costing, council limits and monitoring, reviewing and updating the plan.

Section 2 - Mitigation and Adaptation

Section 2 considers how well the plan outlines the implications of climate change on the local area, and whether the plan has set out strategies for decarbonising and adapting within the key areas of:

  • Planning and land use
  • Transport
  • Infrastructure
  • Business and industry
  • Energy generation
  • Heating
  • Natural environment and biodiversity
  • Food systems and agriculture
Section 3 - Commitment and Integration

Section 3 assesses the integration of the climate and ecological emergency into the council's existing policies and procedures, as well as the target dates set out by the plan.

Section 4 - Community Engagement and Communications

Section 4 questions who has been involved in the plan’s development and how the council intends to keep the community involved in its delivery. It asks about the use of citizens' assemblies, what effort has been made to include under-represented groups, collaborative partnerships, how easy the plan is to find on the website, how well it is structured and whether there is a clear communication strategy.

Section 5 - Measuring and Setting Emissions Targets

Section 5 concentrates on the emissions data and targets set out in the plan. Is there a baseline emissions inventory? Are emissions broken down into scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions? Are GHG emissions quantified? Does the plan prioritise emissions reductions over carbon offsetting?

Section 6 - Co-benefits

This section asks whether the plan considers the co-benefits of climate action and the public health risks of climate change.

Section 7 - Diversity and Social Inclusion

Section 7 centres on whether the plan outlines which parts of the population will be most harmed by climate change, how it intends to focus resources to support vulnerable communities and whether it recognises that councils and residents have differing responsibilities for climate action.

Section 8 - Education, Skills and Training

Section 8 focuses on carbon literacy training for all staff and councillors, education for the public, and training/upskilling the workforce.

Section 9 - Ecological Emergency

Section 9 looks at the plan’s commitments to tackling the ecological emergency. Does the plan include actions to address the ecological emergency? Does it focus on nature based solutions? Are the ecological impacts of climate change mitigation actions considered?

County Council Joint Plans

A number of counties throughout the UK have adopted a joined-up approach in addressing the climate crisis by producing a countywide plan for multiple levels of local government to follow.

For District Councils signed up to these county plans, we have marked both the District and the County plan. This means that for many questions, if the County Council has scored a mark, the District Council also gets the mark (even if it doesn't apply to their own plan). We have only done this for District Councils that have their own plans as it is not enough for them to simply sign up to a County Plan without doing their own planning.

However, for some questions (see below), the District plan had to have the information to get the mark and the County mark wasn't carried over. As a result, the scores of some districts are considerably higher than they would have been had we marked the District plan alone. We feel this is justified: a joined-up approach is best practice to tackle this universal issue collectively, and should be rewarded.

For all questions not listed, if the County plan received the mark, the District plan also received the mark. For the questions listed below, the evidence had to be included in the District plan to get the mark.

  • 1.2.1: The Plan states a net-zero target for the whole district.
  • 1.2.2: The Plan contains yearly or interim targets for carbon reduction in the whole district up until the net-zero target date.
  • 1.2.3: The council has a target of reaching net-zero for their own emissions by 2030.
  • 1.3.1: Links to the Corporate Plan and commitment to the climate emergency Action Plan are already embedded or there are plans for it to be embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan.
  • 1.6.2: The monitoring system is assigned to a department or team to complete and the review process is overseen by a senior lead officer, cabinet member or committee.
  • 3.10.3: The Plan sets out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with and become a key aim of HR.
  • 3.11.1: The Action Plan mentions or links to the Local Plan.
  • 3.11.1: The Action Plan commits to the council to update their Local Plan with the climate crisis at its core.
  • 4.15.1: It is possible to find the Action Plan when searching for it in the search bar with the key words: Climate Action Plan, Climate Emergency, Climate Change, Climate Action, Climate Strategy
  • 4.15.2: There is an environment and/or climate section in the drop down menu which clearly leads to the Plan.
  • 4.15.3: The Plan is accessible from the home page. This could be part of a Climate Emergency section that is advertised on the home page.
  • 4.16.1: The layout is clear and easy to read and understand.
  • 5.18.1: The Plan includes a baseline emission inventory for greenhouse gas emissions.
  • 5.18.2: The Plan quantifies current greenhouse gas emissions for the area.
  • 5.18.3: The Plan provides a breakdown of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
Other exceptions
  • 4.14.2 (If the County Plan references other bodies at a lower level than District Councils, then the District Plan gains the point. If it only references District Councils, then the District Plan must contain this evidence to get the point.)

This applies to the following councils:

Devon
  • East Devon
  • Exeter
  • Mid Devon
  • North Devon
  • South Hams
  • South Hams
  • Teignbridge
  • Torridge
  • West Devon
Kent
  • Ashford Borough Council
  • Canterbury City Council
  • Dartford Borough Council
  • Dover District Council
  • Folkestone and Hythe District Council
  • Gravesham Borough Council
  • Maidstone Borough Council
  • Swale District Council
  • Thanet District Council
  • Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council
  • Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
Suffolk
  • Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
  • East Suffolk Council
  • Ipswich Borough Council
  • West Suffolk Council
Surrey
  • Elmbridge Borough Council
  • Epsom and Ewell Borough Council
  • Guildford Borough Council
  • Mole Valley District Council
  • Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
  • Spelthorne Borough Council
  • Surrey Heath Borough Council
  • Tandridge District Council
  • Waverley Borough Council
  • Woking Borough Council
Somerset
  • Mendip
  • Sedgemoor
  • South Somerset
  • Somerset West & Taunton
  • Mole Valley District Council
  • Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
  • Spelthorne Borough Council
  • Surrey Heath Borough Council
  • Tandridge District Council
  • Waverley Borough Council
  • Woking Borough Council

Question Tables

Notes

  • The following advice was given to markers to help them decide whether to award points or not. This will be helpful for understanding why a council was or wasn’t awarded points.
Governance, development and funding
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

1.1

Is the Plan led by a senior lead officer with a named individual, cabinet member or committee responsible for developing and delivering the Plan and are the actions assigned?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan is not led by a senior lead officer with a cabinet member or committee responsible for development and delivery and the actions are not assigned.

1.1.1

The Plan is led by a senior lead officer with a cabinet member or committee responsible for development and delivery.

1
  • Someone must be taking responsibility for overseeing the delivery of the plan. If this is a committee that qualifies for the point.
  • If it is an individual leading it must be a senior officer as they have the authority to make necessary changes.
  • Most plans have someone who has written the foreword. This alone is not enough. It needs to say who (name or job role) is responsible for the plan.
1.1.2

The individual actions in the Plan are assigned to an officer or committee to ensure they are completed on time.

1
  • This could be an officer, a committee, team or department e.g. waste management team or planning department.
  • At least half of the actions should be assigned to get this point.
  • Must be set out in the CAP - if set out in another plan that doesn’t qualify to be marked they don’t get the point.
1.1.3

The Plan identifies the key bodies needed to deliver actions.

Must mention top 4 bullets + 1 other from the list to get the point

This must include:
• The local authority
• The local authority in partnership
• Local residents
• Anchor institutions

Including but not limited to:
• Local statutory organisations
• VCSE/third sector
• Local businesses
• NGOs
• Other councils in the area
• Distribution Network Operators (DNOs)
• Utility companies
• The National Government
• Arts organisations
• Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs)
• Community organisations
• Transport operators
• Council owned companies and enterprises
• Housing association

1
  • Must mention all 4 key bodies from the essential list plus 1 other to get the point.
  • Desirable list contains suggestions but other key bodies can be accepted if not on the list.

1.2

Does the Plan include science backed net-zero targets in which the terms are defined and the scope is considered?

The net-zero targets in the Plan are not science backed, the terms are not defined and the scope is not considered.

1.2.1

The Plan contains yearly or interim targets for carbon reduction in the whole district up until the net-zero target date.

1
  • A target of 2031 - 2050 = 1 point
  • A target of 2030 or earlier = 2 points
1.2.1.b

The Plan states a net-zero target for the whole district

2
  • A target of 2031 - 2050 = 1 point
  • A target of 2030 or earlier = 2 points
1.2.2

The council has a target of reaching net-zero for their own emissions by 2030.

1
  • These must be clear and specific dates rather than a vague graph.
  • Figure 1 would not get the point
  • Figure 2 would get the point
1.2.3

The terms, scope and fairness are defined:

3 bullet points = 1 point
4 or more bullet points = 2 points

• The terms of net-zero are defined clearly
• The scope of the net-zero target is considered e.g. what gases are included
• An annual reduction percentage is calculated which ensures the council stays within its carbon budget
• The Plan sets out a statement of long term intent in which it details how it plans to go carbon negative after reaching net-zero
• The fairness of the targets is considered e.g. recognising that some areas have a greater responsibility to carbon reduction than others due to economic factors, historic emissions data etc.

2

1.3

Is commitment to the Climate Emergency Action Plan embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan as well as all the council’s decisions and actions?

Give 0 points if:

Commitment to the climate emergency Action Plan is not embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan or their decisions and actions.

1.3.1

Links to the Corporate Plan and commitment to the climate emergency Action Plan is embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan.

1
  • The Corporate Plan needs to be either hyperlinked to or mentioned within the Action Plan.
  • If the climate emergency action plan is embedded in the Corporate Plan but it is not linked from the CAP it doesn’t get this point.
  • The Corporate Plan should say that it is committed to the delivery of the Climate Action Plan.
1.3.2

The Plan commits to placing the climate emergency at the centre of all its decisions and actions.

This means:
• There should be a line in the Plan that commits to this e.g. Nottingham’s Plan says: ‘This is one of the most important and complex challenges any society has faced, which is why the Council has taken it to the core of how it operates.’

1
  • There should be a line in the Plan that commits to this, for example, Nottingham’s Plan says: ‘This is one of the most important and complex challenges any society has faced, which is why the Council has taken it to the core of how it operates.’
  • The plan could suggest which policies/procedures/etc. will need to be updated in order to achieve this or there may be an environmental consideration/implication box alongside all council decisions and motions.
  • Make sure there is actually a commitment rather than a vague statement. For example, ‘The Council has a vision for a low carbon future and is seeking to address climate Make sure there is actually a commitment rather than a vague statement. For example, ‘The Council has a vision for a low carbon future and is seeking to address climate

1.4

Does the Plan set out a plan for funding and costing?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not identify funding for any actions or cost any actions.

1.4.1

The Plan identifies funding for the actions.

Including but not limited to:
• Identifying if funding exists for an action
• If funding does not exist, identifying where the funding can be sought
• Considering the council’s own internal budgets to ensure they are being used most effectively to support carbon neutrality.

1
  • This is asking if the council has considered where funding will come from for specific actions.
  • This needs to be a broad outline of where the funding is or could be coming from for individual actions. Some Plans have a funding column which says ‘yes’ or ‘no’ for funding but we’re expecting more than this e.g. plans could mention specific government funds.
  • At least half of the actions must identify funding to get the point.
1.4.2

The cost of the actions in the Plan is outlined.

1
  • We want to see a broad outline of the cost of actions
  • There needs to be some actual figures or estimates of how much at least half of the actions will cost to implement.
  • Craven is a good example of what counts as costing the Action Plan, they have a code of estimates of how much each action will cost, with £ or ££ or £££ signs
  • At least half of the actions should be costed to get the point.
1.4.3

The Plan sets out financial return on investment where applicable e.g. renewable energy projects.

1
  • This question is about the council itself making money from green projects like renewable energy, not residents e.g. Glasgow says retrofitting will save residents money but that wouldn’t get the point.
  • Whereas this would get the point: "£750,000 funded by prudential borrowing has been set aside in the capital programme over three years for projects such as renewable energy and energy efficiency projects to be identified that generate sufficient income to cover the cost of borrowing. Where projects don’t make sufficient return other funding sources will be explored (e.g. government grants) and an assessment will need to be of the cost versus the benefit."
1.4.4

The Plan identifies ways of raising funds.

For example:
• Workplace Parking Levy*
• Licensing of private rented sector*
• Equity investors in infrastructure projects

1
  • This question is about thinking of where funding more generally could come from.
  • If specific government funds are identified then this can have a point - but they need to be realistic and specific rather than a generalised comment that there may be government funding
  • Nottingham City Council have successfully introduced a Workplace Parking Levy which charges employers who offer car parking spaces. This money is ring fenced and used for low carbon public transport initiatives.
  • Newham Council in London has pioneered the licensing of landlords. This money is used for inspections of rented homes to ensure that they are meeting energy efficiency standards.
1.4.5

The Plan outlines how the local authority will allocate funds to ensure budgets are being used most effectively to support carbon neutrality.

1
  • There needs to be a commitment to allocating a budget towards climate action rather than just a suggestion that it might be considered.
  • They don’t need to outline exact figures, we’re looking for a commitment that it will happen.

1.5

Does the Plan explain what the local authority can and cannot do and acknowledge actions that require support from Government?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not explain what the local authority can and cannot do. It does not commit to lobbying higher levels of government or include actions where the UK Government and/or devolved governments can help.

1.5.1

The Plan recognises there is a limit to what the council can and cannot do on its own and includes notes on what it has control over.

For example:
• Transport
• Roads
• Education
• Recycling
• etc.

1
1.5.2

The Plan commits the authority to lobbying higher levels of government when it comes across limitations of legislation and finance that impede it from taking action on the climate crisis.

1

1.6

Has the council committed to implementing a monitoring system in order to evaluate, review and update its targets?

Give 0 points if:

The council does not have a monitoring system in place and there are no commitments to update the Plan annually.

1.6.1

The council has a monitoring system in place for evaluating and reviewing the Action Plan.

1
  • If the plan states that it will come up with a monitoring system as an action then it can have the point.
1.6.2

The monitoring system is assigned to a department or team to complete and the review process is overseen by a senior lead officer, cabinet member or committee.

1
1.6.3

The Plan commits the council to reviewing and updating the Plan at least once annually.

1
  • If there are commitments to update the Plan less than annually, or the commitments are not specific about how often the Plan will be updated, it does not get the point.
  • They don’t need to outline exact figures, we’re looking for a commitment that it will happen.
Mitigation and adaptation
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

2.7

Does the Plan outline the implications of climate change for the local area?

Give 0 points if:

The council does not have a monitoring system in place and there are no commitments to update the Plan annually.

2.7.1

The Plan outlines the implications of climate change for the local area.

Outline at least 3 implications to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• Increasingly extreme local weather
• Sea level rise
• Coastal erosion
• Flooding
• Creation of heat islands
• Shortages of public water supply
• Problems with food production

1
  • At the very least the implications need to be UK specific.
  • Preferably they would be more specific e.g. if the area is coastal, sea level rise should be mentioned

2.8

Does the Plan set out or link to a strategy for decarbonising the whole district for the following carbon mitigation areas?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not set out or link to strategies for any of the above. If the council only has a strategy for its own operations the above sub-points and not the whole district then it doesn’t get the point.

2.8.1

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for reducing consumption and waste.

1
  • For all of the sub-points in this question the Plan must have a strategy for the whole area/district, not just for the council’s own operations.
  • A ‘strategy’ needs to be at least 3 specific, large actions. It must be more substantial than just a couple of lines. In order to get the point it must have at least 3 actions.
2.8.2

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising planning and land use.*

1

Planning in this context is about planning in relation to land use and new buildings/homes. It can include:

  • Land Use Policy - denser walkable homes
  • Requirements for construction as new developments will have to meet certain requirements.
  • Including requirements for active travel infrastructure etc. for new developments
2.8.3

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising transport.

1
2.8.4

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising buildings, housing and infrastructure inc. construction.

1
2.8.5

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising business and industry.

1
2.8.6

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising energy generation.

1
2.8.7

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising heating.

1
2.8.8

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for restoring the natural environment and improving biodiversity.

1
2.8.9

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising food systems and agriculture.

1

2.9

Does the plan set out adaptation actions for the whole district that the Council will take in the following areas?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not consider adaptation to climate change in any of the areas listed above. If the council only has a strategy for its own operations the above sub-points and not the whole district then it doesn’t get the point.

2.9.1

The Plan sets out how the council will help residents prepare for changes in climate and extreme weather.

1

Planning in this context is about planning in relation to land use and new buildings/homes. It can include:

  • For all of the sub-points in this question the Plan must set out actions for the whole area/district, not just for the council’s own operations.
  • This only needs to be 1 action, not a full strategy
2.9.2

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for planning and land use

1
2.9.3

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for transport

1
2.9.4

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for buildings, housing and infrastructure

1
2.9.5

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for business and industry

1
2.9.6

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for energy generation

1
2.9.7

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for the natural environment and biodiversity

1
2.9.8

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for agriculture and food production

1
Commitment and integration
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

3.10

Does the Plan set out how the climate & ecological emergency will be integrated with and become part of existing organisational policies and procedures?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not set out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with existing organisational policies, procedures, services and strategies.

3.10.1

The Plan links to and integrates with existing local authority plans and strategies.

Give the point if the Plan links to any other plans and/or strategies

Including but not limited to:
• Biodiversity plan
• Air quality plan
• Transport or Movement strategy
• Local industrial strategy
• Asset Management plan
• Investment plans

1

Plan links to or mentions any other plans and/or strategies to get 1 point

3.10.2

The Plan sets out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with and become a key aim of financial procedures.

Including but not limited to:
• Procurement
• Capex
• Supply chain requirements

1

To be considered a ‘key aim of financial procedures’ there must be substantial evidence. One action or mention of procurement is not enough.

3.10.3

The Plan sets out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with and become a key aim of HR.

Including but not limited to:
• Individual objectives
• Recruitment e.g. Placing climate mitigation and adaptation into all job descriptions and providing climate focused training and resources.
• Competencies
• Accountability

1

This needs to be more than just mentioning training as there is a separate question on training later. HR involvement indicates that there are issues of climate response in job descriptions, individual development, appraisal, and performance management, as these are all HR processes.

3.11

Does the Plan link to and integrate with the Local Plan?

NOTE: This question does not apply to county councils and combined authorities

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not integrate with and link to the council’s Local Plan.

3.11.1

The Action Plan mentions or links to the Local Plan.*

1

This doesn’t need to be a hyperlink, it just needs to mention the Local Plan.

3.11.2

The Action Plan commits to the council to update their Local Plan with the climate crisis at its core.

1
  • There should be a line in the Plan that explains the council’s commitment to the CAP by committing to updating the Local Plan.
  • If the Local Plan already commits to significant climate action they also get the point.

3.12

Does the Plan set strong target dates for actions?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not set strong target dates for actions.
This could mean:

  • They are not SMART targets
  • There are no target dates at all
  • There are no target dates at all
  • The dates are set too far in the future (e.g. all the target dates are set to 2030)
  • The dates say when they actions will be started but not completed, or similar
3.12.1

The Plan makes reference to SMART targets but it is not complete i.e they are specific and measurable but not time-bound etc.

SMART targets:
• Specific
• Measureable
• Agreed upon or actionable
• Realistic or relevant
• Time-bound (the target dates are set in line with the urgency of the situation)

1
3.12.2

Most of the actions in the Plan have SMART Targets.

1

At least half of the actions must have SMART targets to get this point

Community, engagement and communications
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

4.13

Has a representative cross section of the community and relevant stakeholders been involved in developing and delivering the Plan?

Give 0 points if:

There has been no community engagement in the development of the Plan and there is no strategy for engaging the public in its progress.

4.13.1

The Plan clearly makes extra effort to reach harder to reach communities and under-represented groups in the environmental movement

Including but not limited to:
• Black, Asian and other ethnic minorities
• People with disabilities
• People on lower incomes
• People from working class backgrounds
• Faith groups
• High carbon emitting businesses
• Farmers
• Land owners

1
  • The mention of a Citizen’s Assembly is enough to get the point.
  • It would be better if it outlines the details of the Citizens Assembly but this is not essential.
4.13.2

The Plan clearly states how residents, businesses and stakeholders will continue to be involved in the progress and delivery of the Plan.
Examples including but not limited to:
Creating a permanent community forum
Allocating community representation on key committees
Creating an ongoing online feedback page
Running online webinars and engagement sessions
Physical suggestion boxes in locations around the area

1

4.14

Does the Plan establish collaborative partnerships and secure commitments from different sectors within the community and include how the local authority and its leaders will work to influence and support other bodies?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not establish any collaborative partnerships and secure commitments from different sectors within the community or include how the local authority and its leaders will work to influence and support other bodies.

4.14.1

The Plan identifies and establishes partnerships and secure commitments from different sectors within the community.

Mention partnerships with at least 3 different organisations or sectors to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• The voluntary sector
• The education sector
• The health sector
• Faith organisations
• Businesses (large and SME)
• Anchor institutions
• Universities
• High carbon emitting sectors
• Farming sector

1
  • Mentions partnerships with at least 3 different organisations or sectors to get 1 point.
  • We are looking for whether the Plan has written specifically which partners they will be working with and ideally which projects each partner will be working on.
4.14.2

The Plan includes how the local authority and its leaders will work to influence and support other bodies.

For example:
District councils could create climate emergency packs for parish councils in their area
Local authorities can influence Local Enterprise Partnerships, Combined Authorities, Sub-national Transport bodies and Contractors to reduce their own emissions and increase biodiversity

1
  • This is referring to authorities at a lower level than the national government such as other local authorities, council bodies, LEPs, parish councils or regional transport bodies.
  • One mention of a local organisation or body e.g. the local train station is not enough for the point.

4.15

Is the Climate Emergency Action Plan easy to find on the local authority website?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan is very difficult to find: When searching for it, it does not appear and/or the plan is only accessible via an appendix on the relevant meeting minutes.

4.15.1

It is possible to find the Action Plan when searching for it in the search bar.

1
  • For this question, if the Plan achieves sub-point 3, also tick the boxes for sub-points 1 and 2. If the Plan achieves sub-point 2, also tick the box for sub-point 1. This is a cumulative score so Plans will get more marks if they complete higher sub-points.
  • The Plan score 0, 1 for sub-point 1 alone, 2 for sub-points 1 and 2, or 3 for sub-points 1, 2 and 3 combined.
4.15.2

There is an environment and/or climate section in the drop down menu which clearly leads to the Plan.

1
4.15.3

The Plan is accessible from the home page. This could be part of a Climate Emergency section that is advertised on the home page.

1

Must be able to find the plan in a maximum 2 clicks from the homepage to get the point e.g. click on the climate change icon, click on link to the plan.

4.16

Is the Plan structured in a clear and accessible way?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan is inaccessible and unclear. This could include:

  • Too much jargon
  • Jargon is undefined
  • Too much text
  • Lack of signposting for sections
  • Lack of images, tables and infographics to help explain the content
4.16.1

The layout is clear and easy to read and understand.

This means:
• It is attractive to look at and entices people to read
• The layout is clear
• It is easy to navigate: there is a contents page, executive summary, clear outlines for objectives, timelines for actions and a table summary for actions.
• The sections are well signposted
• The language is accessible for everyone (any jargon used is defined)
• There are images, tables and infographics to help explain the content
• Colour is used well to aid understanding

1

4.17

Does the Plan have a clear communication strategy?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not have a clear communication strategy.

4.17.1

There is a clear communication strategy for informing the public about updates on the Plan.*

1
  • If the plan outlines actions to create a communication plan then it gets the point.
  • The Plan may lay out its communications plan which could include:
    • Social media campaigning
    • A clear Climate Emergency section on the website which is regularly updated
    • Public forums
Measuring and setting emissions targets
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

5.18

Does the Plan measure and set emissions targets for the whole district?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not measure and set emissions targets. If it only measures and sets targets for the council itself, rather than the area as a whole, it also doesn’t get the points.

5.18.1

The Plan includes a baseline emission inventory for greenhouse gas emissions for the whole district.

1
  • Must be for the whole area not just the council.
  • The baseline emissions inventory should be set at 2005 or earlier. If it is set after 2005 it doesn’t get the point. This is because 2005 is when the UK government began releasing data for all local authorities.
5.18.2

The Plan quantifies current greenhouse gas emissions for the whole district.

1
  • Must be for the whole area not just the council.
  • Quantifying current emissions is now/when the plan was written. Emissions data can take a few years to be worked out so lots of plans will be using 2017 data. This would qualify for the point.
5.18.3

The Plan provides a breakdown of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions for the whole district.

1
  • Must be for the whole area not just the council.
  • To get this point scope 1 and scope 2 must be fully set out and scope 3 needs to be at least mentioned. Scope 3 emissions are much harder to quantify and it can be hard for councils to get this data so if they have made it clear why scope 3 hasn’t been fully broken down then they can have the point.

5.19

Does the Plan highlight action areas for emissions reductions and not simply carbon offsetting?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not highlight action areas for emissions reductions and/or only concentrates on carbon offsetting.

5.19.1

The Plan highlights action areas for emissions reductions.*

Identify at least 3 action areas to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• Energy and Heating
• The Built Environment
• Transport
• Agriculture and Food
• Waste
• The Circular Economy
• Water
• Planning and Land Use
• Commercial and Industrial
• Ecological Emergency and Biodiversity
• Air Quality and Pollution

1
  • At least 3 action areas = 1 point.
  • Action areas may also be referred to as action themes in plans.
  • Points can be given if these themes are for the council’s own estate or for the whole district.
5.19.2

A hierarchy of carbon mitigation is established in which carbon offsetting is placed at the bottom, as a last resort only.*

1
  • It is important that the Plan has a clear strategy for reducing emissions and doesn’t just rely on carbon offsetting. If the Plan just focuses on offsetting it does not get the point.
  • The fact that a plan doesn’t talk much about offsetting shows that it isn’t focused on it so if there are ambitious and detailed plans for reduction and a small, or no mention of offsetting it should get the point. See figure 3
Co-benefits
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

6.20

Does the Plan outline the co-benefits in all action areas?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not consider the co-benefits of climate change mitigation and adaptation.

6.20.1

The Plan includes co-benefits in at least 3 of the following areas:

3 areas covered = 1 point

5 or more areas covered = 2 points

• Environmental
• Social
• Job creation
• Equity and social cohesion
• Health and wellbeing
• Resilience
• Citizen engagement
• Economy

2
  • 3 areas covered = 1 point
  • 5 or more areas covered = 2 points
  • Whether the action was designed as an environmental action that has other benefits, or was designed for another purpose and it happens to have environmental benefits, the Plan gets the points as long as it is outlined clearly.

6.21

Does the Plan outline public health risks in the area as a result of climate change and include actions to address these risks across the different action themes?

6.21.1

The Plan outlines public health risks in the area as a result of climate change.

Outline any health risks to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• Air quality (statistics for the area, deaths per year etc.)
• Exposure to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and other weather events, eg. flooding
• Invasive species carrying disease (mosquitoes etc.)
• Disease caused by contaminated flood water
• Pandemics and epidemics
• Distribution to supply chains resulting in lack of medication, food etc.
• Malnutrition
• Eco-anxiety

1
  • Outline any health risk = 1 point
  • This question seems similar to question 7 ‘Does the Plan outline the implications of climate change for the local area?’ but it needs to explicitly talk about health risks to get the point. Just pointing out that the temperatures will increase in summer and there will be more rainfall in winter is not enough.
6.21.2

The Plan includes actions to address the public health risks of climate change across the different action themes.

1
Diversity and inclusion
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

7.22

Does the Plan outline how to help those most vulnerable to the climate crisis?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not outline public health risks in the area as a result of climate change or include actions to address these risks across the different action themes.

7.22.1

The Plan outlines who climate change will harm the most.

If 3 groups are identified select option 1

If 5 or more groups are identified select option 2

Including but not limited to recognising:
• Intergenerational inequalities
• Racial inequalities
• Religious inequalities
• Class/economic inequalities
• Gender inequalities
• Disability inequalities
• LGBTQ+ inequalities
• Traveller communities

2
  • 3 groups identified = 1 point
  • 5 or more groups identified = 2 points
7.22.2

The Plan focuses resources to support these vulnerable communities.

3 areas covered = 1 point

5 or more areas covered = 2 points

Including but not limited to:
• Energy and fuel poverty
• Food insecurity
• Improving job skills, education and retraining
• Clean air and reducing pollution
• Flood risk and recovery
• Educational risks and social risks
• Quality of public space, green space and assets.
• Infrastructure
• Accessibility to key services/housing
• Affordability of public transport and access to active travel

2
  • 3 areas covered = 1 point
  • 5 or more areas covered = 2 points
  • The Plan needs to commit to actions to support the most vulnerable, not just vaguely say the council will help the vulnerable.

7.23

Does the Plan recognise how Councils and residents have differing responsibilities for climate action?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not recognise the council’s individual responsibility to climate action.

7.23.1

The Plan’s commitments reflect the council’s and the area’s responsibility to climate action based on its economic position, current and historic GHG emissions, level of authority and power.

This could include:
• Wealthier and higher tier council’s committing to help and support councils with fewer resources e.g. areas with greater staff capacity should lead on sharing best practice and learnings.
• Recognising that historically areas have financially benefited from carbon intensive industries e.g. mining and helping residents working in these industries to retrain
• Making it clear that those on lowest incomes are not expected to retrofit their own homes etc.
• Recognising why emissions in the area are high or low

1
Education, skills and training
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

8.24

Does the Plan include carbon and climate literacy training for staff and councillors?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not include carbon and climate literacy training for all staff and councillors.

8.24.1

The Plan does include carbon and climate literacy training for all staff and councillors.

1

8.25

Does the Plan include climate education for the public as a key component across the different action themes?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not include education as a key component across any of the action themes.

8.25.1

The Plan includes climate education in schools.

1

The Plan needs to include actions to work with schools to teach children and staff about the climate crisis.

8.25.2

The Plan includes climate education for the public as a key component in the action plan. This refers not to school children and those in formal education but everyone.

Including but not limited to:
• Adults in work
• Adults out of work
• Carers
• Seniors
• Incarcerated people

1
  • The Plan should mention at least 2 different groups of adults to get this point. It may use different wording to the question e.g. parents, adult learning, residents.
  • Education in this case means awareness raising and informing residents and local businesses so that people have a better understanding of the issues and what they can do, and what the council can do to tackle them.

8.26

Does the Plan identify the training and upskilling of the workforce that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not identify the training and upskilling of the workforce that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed.

8.26.1

The Plan identifies the training and upskilling of the workforce in the local area that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed.

Including but not limited to:
• Re-training workers in high-carbon industries to low-carbon sectors
• Young people
• Local businesses
• Education providers
• Local employers

1
  • Example: "Invest £100,000 over four years to promote the growth of the low carbon economy in Wychavon, including increasing our investment in the Low Carbon Opportunities Programme and apprenticeship grants to businesses working in green technologies."
  • This would get the point for sub-point 1 because it recognises that employment and the economy needs to change and be supported to be lower carbon in terms of jobs.
8.26.2

The Plan identifies how the training will happen.

Including but not limited to:
• Who will provide the training
• Creating green apprenticeships
• Partnerships with Local Enterprise Partnerships, SMEs, schools, colleges, universities, job centres etc.
• Upskilling education providers and careers services in identifying future employment trends and • opportunities
• Incentivise re-training

1

But it would NOT get the point for sub-point 2 because it does not provide any detail on HOW this will happen, when it will happen and who will need to carry this out.

Ecological emergency
CodeQuestionMax pointsAdditional criteria / Advice for marker

9.27

Does the Plan address the ecological emergency?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not identify the training and upskilling of the workforce that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed.

9.27.1

The Plan outlines actions to address the ecological emergency.

1
9.27.2

The Plan recognises the impact climate change is having on biodiversity loss.

1

If the local authority has declared an ecological emergency they will get this point.

9.27.3

The Plan recognises the ecological services provided by habitat within the area and suggests nature-based solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation.

1

9.28

Does the Plan outline the ecological impact of climate mitigation and adaptation actions?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not outline the ecological impact of climate change mitigation and adaptation actions.

9.28.1

The Plan outlines the ecological impact of specific carbon mitigation and adaptation actions set out in the Plan and suggests actions to address any negative impacts.

1

E.g. LED street lights have a negative impact on insects.

Governance, development and funding
s1_gov_q1

Question description

Is the Plan led by a senior lead officer with a named individual, cabinet member or committee responsible for developing and delivering the Plan and are the actions assigned?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan is not led by a senior lead officer with a cabinet member or committee responsible for development and delivery and the actions are not assigned.

s1_gov_q1_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan is led by a senior lead officer with a cabinet member or committee responsible for development and delivery.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Someone must be taking responsibility for overseeing the delivery of the plan. If this is a committee that qualifies for the point.
  • If it is an individual leading it must be a senior officer as they have the authority to make necessary changes.
  • Most plans have someone who has written the foreword. This alone is not enough. It needs to say who (name or job role) is responsible for the plan.
s1_gov_q1_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The individual actions in the Plan are assigned to an officer or committee to ensure they are completed on time.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • This could be an officer, a committee, team or department e.g. waste management team or planning department.
  • At least half of the actions should be assigned to get this point.
  • Must be set out in the CAP - if set out in another plan that doesn’t qualify to be marked they don’t get the point.
s1_gov_q1_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan identifies the key bodies needed to deliver actions.

Must mention top 4 bullets + 1 other from the list to get the point

This must include:
• The local authority
• The local authority in partnership
• Local residents
• Anchor institutions

Including but not limited to:
• Local statutory organisations
• VCSE/third sector
• Local businesses
• NGOs
• Other councils in the area
• Distribution Network Operators (DNOs)
• Utility companies
• The National Government
• Arts organisations
• Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs)
• Community organisations
• Transport operators
• Council owned companies and enterprises
• Housing association

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Must mention all 4 key bodies from the essential list plus 1 other to get the point.
  • Desirable list contains suggestions but other key bodies can be accepted if not on the list.
s1_gov_q2

Question description

Does the Plan include science backed net-zero targets in which the terms are defined and the scope is considered?

The net-zero targets in the Plan are not science backed, the terms are not defined and the scope is not considered.

s1_gov_q2_sp1_v2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan contains yearly or interim targets for carbon reduction in the whole district up until the net-zero target date.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • A target of 2031 - 2050 = 1 point
  • A target of 2030 or earlier = 2 points
s1_gov_q2_sp1_v2_b Max points:2

Question description

The Plan states a net-zero target for the whole district

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • A target of 2031 - 2050 = 1 point
  • A target of 2030 or earlier = 2 points
s1_gov_q2_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The council has a target of reaching net-zero for their own emissions by 2030.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • These must be clear and specific dates rather than a vague graph.
  • Figure 1 would not get the point
  • Figure 2 would get the point
s1_gov_q2_sp3 Max points:2

Question description

The terms, scope and fairness are defined:

3 bullet points = 1 point
4 or more bullet points = 2 points

• The terms of net-zero are defined clearly
• The scope of the net-zero target is considered e.g. what gases are included
• An annual reduction percentage is calculated which ensures the council stays within its carbon budget
• The Plan sets out a statement of long term intent in which it details how it plans to go carbon negative after reaching net-zero
• The fairness of the targets is considered e.g. recognising that some areas have a greater responsibility to carbon reduction than others due to economic factors, historic emissions data etc.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s1_gov_q3

Question description

Is commitment to the Climate Emergency Action Plan embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan as well as all the council’s decisions and actions?

Give 0 points if:

Commitment to the climate emergency Action Plan is not embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan or their decisions and actions.

s1_gov_q3_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

Links to the Corporate Plan and commitment to the climate emergency Action Plan is embedded in the council’s Corporate Plan.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • The Corporate Plan needs to be either hyperlinked to or mentioned within the Action Plan.
  • If the climate emergency action plan is embedded in the Corporate Plan but it is not linked from the CAP it doesn’t get this point.
  • The Corporate Plan should say that it is committed to the delivery of the Climate Action Plan.
s1_gov_q3_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan commits to placing the climate emergency at the centre of all its decisions and actions.

This means:
• There should be a line in the Plan that commits to this e.g. Nottingham’s Plan says: ‘This is one of the most important and complex challenges any society has faced, which is why the Council has taken it to the core of how it operates.’

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • There should be a line in the Plan that commits to this, for example, Nottingham’s Plan says: ‘This is one of the most important and complex challenges any society has faced, which is why the Council has taken it to the core of how it operates.’
  • The plan could suggest which policies/procedures/etc. will need to be updated in order to achieve this or there may be an environmental consideration/implication box alongside all council decisions and motions.
  • Make sure there is actually a commitment rather than a vague statement. For example, ‘The Council has a vision for a low carbon future and is seeking to address climate Make sure there is actually a commitment rather than a vague statement. For example, ‘The Council has a vision for a low carbon future and is seeking to address climate
s1_gov_q4

Question description

Does the Plan set out a plan for funding and costing?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not identify funding for any actions or cost any actions.

s1_gov_q4_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan identifies funding for the actions.

Including but not limited to:
• Identifying if funding exists for an action
• If funding does not exist, identifying where the funding can be sought
• Considering the council’s own internal budgets to ensure they are being used most effectively to support carbon neutrality.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • This is asking if the council has considered where funding will come from for specific actions.
  • This needs to be a broad outline of where the funding is or could be coming from for individual actions. Some Plans have a funding column which says ‘yes’ or ‘no’ for funding but we’re expecting more than this e.g. plans could mention specific government funds.
  • At least half of the actions must identify funding to get the point.
s1_gov_q4_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The cost of the actions in the Plan is outlined.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • We want to see a broad outline of the cost of actions
  • There needs to be some actual figures or estimates of how much at least half of the actions will cost to implement.
  • Craven is a good example of what counts as costing the Action Plan, they have a code of estimates of how much each action will cost, with £ or ££ or £££ signs
  • At least half of the actions should be costed to get the point.
s1_gov_q4_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out financial return on investment where applicable e.g. renewable energy projects.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • This question is about the council itself making money from green projects like renewable energy, not residents e.g. Glasgow says retrofitting will save residents money but that wouldn’t get the point.
  • Whereas this would get the point: "£750,000 funded by prudential borrowing has been set aside in the capital programme over three years for projects such as renewable energy and energy efficiency projects to be identified that generate sufficient income to cover the cost of borrowing. Where projects don’t make sufficient return other funding sources will be explored (e.g. government grants) and an assessment will need to be of the cost versus the benefit."
s1_gov_q4_sp4 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan identifies ways of raising funds.

For example:
• Workplace Parking Levy*
• Licensing of private rented sector*
• Equity investors in infrastructure projects

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • This question is about thinking of where funding more generally could come from.
  • If specific government funds are identified then this can have a point - but they need to be realistic and specific rather than a generalised comment that there may be government funding
  • Nottingham City Council have successfully introduced a Workplace Parking Levy which charges employers who offer car parking spaces. This money is ring fenced and used for low carbon public transport initiatives.
  • Newham Council in London has pioneered the licensing of landlords. This money is used for inspections of rented homes to ensure that they are meeting energy efficiency standards.
s1_gov_q4_sp5 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan outlines how the local authority will allocate funds to ensure budgets are being used most effectively to support carbon neutrality.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • There needs to be a commitment to allocating a budget towards climate action rather than just a suggestion that it might be considered.
  • They don’t need to outline exact figures, we’re looking for a commitment that it will happen.
s1_gov_q5

Question description

Does the Plan explain what the local authority can and cannot do and acknowledge actions that require support from Government?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not explain what the local authority can and cannot do. It does not commit to lobbying higher levels of government or include actions where the UK Government and/or devolved governments can help.

s1_gov_q5_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan recognises there is a limit to what the council can and cannot do on its own and includes notes on what it has control over.

For example:
• Transport
• Roads
• Education
• Recycling
• etc.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s1_gov_q5_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan commits the authority to lobbying higher levels of government when it comes across limitations of legislation and finance that impede it from taking action on the climate crisis.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s1_gov_q6

Question description

Has the council committed to implementing a monitoring system in order to evaluate, review and update its targets?

Give 0 points if:

The council does not have a monitoring system in place and there are no commitments to update the Plan annually.

s1_gov_q6_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The council has a monitoring system in place for evaluating and reviewing the Action Plan.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • If the plan states that it will come up with a monitoring system as an action then it can have the point.
s1_gov_q6_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The monitoring system is assigned to a department or team to complete and the review process is overseen by a senior lead officer, cabinet member or committee.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s1_gov_q6_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan commits the council to reviewing and updating the Plan at least once annually.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • If there are commitments to update the Plan less than annually, or the commitments are not specific about how often the Plan will be updated, it does not get the point.
  • They don’t need to outline exact figures, we’re looking for a commitment that it will happen.
Mitigation and adaptation
s2_m_a_q7

Question description

Does the Plan outline the implications of climate change for the local area?

Give 0 points if:

The council does not have a monitoring system in place and there are no commitments to update the Plan annually.

s2_m_a_q7_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan outlines the implications of climate change for the local area.

Outline at least 3 implications to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• Increasingly extreme local weather
• Sea level rise
• Coastal erosion
• Flooding
• Creation of heat islands
• Shortages of public water supply
• Problems with food production

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • At the very least the implications need to be UK specific.
  • Preferably they would be more specific e.g. if the area is coastal, sea level rise should be mentioned
s2_m_a_q8

Question description

Does the Plan set out or link to a strategy for decarbonising the whole district for the following carbon mitigation areas?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not set out or link to strategies for any of the above. If the council only has a strategy for its own operations the above sub-points and not the whole district then it doesn’t get the point.

s2_m_a_q8_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for reducing consumption and waste.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • For all of the sub-points in this question the Plan must have a strategy for the whole area/district, not just for the council’s own operations.
  • A ‘strategy’ needs to be at least 3 specific, large actions. It must be more substantial than just a couple of lines. In order to get the point it must have at least 3 actions.
s2_m_a_q8_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising planning and land use.*

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Planning in this context is about planning in relation to land use and new buildings/homes. It can include:

  • Land Use Policy - denser walkable homes
  • Requirements for construction as new developments will have to meet certain requirements.
  • Including requirements for active travel infrastructure etc. for new developments
s2_m_a_q8_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising transport.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q8_sp4 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising buildings, housing and infrastructure inc. construction.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q8_sp5 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising business and industry.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q8_sp6 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising energy generation.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q8_sp7 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising heating.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q8_sp8 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for restoring the natural environment and improving biodiversity.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q8_sp9 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out or links to a strategy for decarbonising food systems and agriculture.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9

Question description

Does the plan set out adaptation actions for the whole district that the Council will take in the following areas?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not consider adaptation to climate change in any of the areas listed above. If the council only has a strategy for its own operations the above sub-points and not the whole district then it doesn’t get the point.

s2_m_a_q9_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out how the council will help residents prepare for changes in climate and extreme weather.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Planning in this context is about planning in relation to land use and new buildings/homes. It can include:

  • For all of the sub-points in this question the Plan must set out actions for the whole area/district, not just for the council’s own operations.
  • This only needs to be 1 action, not a full strategy
s2_m_a_q9_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for planning and land use

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for transport

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9_sp4 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for buildings, housing and infrastructure

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9_sp5 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for business and industry

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9_sp6 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for energy generation

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9_sp7 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for the natural environment and biodiversity

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s2_m_a_q9_sp8 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out adaptation actions for agriculture and food production

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Commitment and integration
s3_c_a_q10

Question description

Does the Plan set out how the climate & ecological emergency will be integrated with and become part of existing organisational policies and procedures?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not set out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with existing organisational policies, procedures, services and strategies.

s3_c_a_q10_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan links to and integrates with existing local authority plans and strategies.

Give the point if the Plan links to any other plans and/or strategies

Including but not limited to:
• Biodiversity plan
• Air quality plan
• Transport or Movement strategy
• Local industrial strategy
• Asset Management plan
• Investment plans

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Plan links to or mentions any other plans and/or strategies to get 1 point

s3_c_a_q10_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with and become a key aim of financial procedures.

Including but not limited to:
• Procurement
• Capex
• Supply chain requirements

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

To be considered a ‘key aim of financial procedures’ there must be substantial evidence. One action or mention of procurement is not enough.

s3_c_a_q10_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan sets out how the climate and ecological emergency will be integrated with and become a key aim of HR.

Including but not limited to:
• Individual objectives
• Recruitment e.g. Placing climate mitigation and adaptation into all job descriptions and providing climate focused training and resources.
• Competencies
• Accountability

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

This needs to be more than just mentioning training as there is a separate question on training later. HR involvement indicates that there are issues of climate response in job descriptions, individual development, appraisal, and performance management, as these are all HR processes.

s3_c_a_q11

Question description

Does the Plan link to and integrate with the Local Plan?

NOTE: This question does not apply to county councils and combined authorities

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not integrate with and link to the council’s Local Plan.

s3_c_a_q11_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Action Plan mentions or links to the Local Plan.*

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

This doesn’t need to be a hyperlink, it just needs to mention the Local Plan.

s3_c_a_q11_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Action Plan commits to the council to update their Local Plan with the climate crisis at its core.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • There should be a line in the Plan that explains the council’s commitment to the CAP by committing to updating the Local Plan.
  • If the Local Plan already commits to significant climate action they also get the point.
s3_c_a_q12

Question description

Does the Plan set strong target dates for actions?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not set strong target dates for actions.
This could mean:

  • They are not SMART targets
  • There are no target dates at all
  • There are no target dates at all
  • The dates are set too far in the future (e.g. all the target dates are set to 2030)
  • The dates say when they actions will be started but not completed, or similar
s3_c_a_q12_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan makes reference to SMART targets but it is not complete i.e they are specific and measurable but not time-bound etc.

SMART targets:
• Specific
• Measureable
• Agreed upon or actionable
• Realistic or relevant
• Time-bound (the target dates are set in line with the urgency of the situation)

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s3_c_a_q12_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

Most of the actions in the Plan have SMART Targets.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

At least half of the actions must have SMART targets to get this point

Community, engagement and communications
s4_coms_q13

Question description

Has a representative cross section of the community and relevant stakeholders been involved in developing and delivering the Plan?

Give 0 points if:

There has been no community engagement in the development of the Plan and there is no strategy for engaging the public in its progress.

s4_coms_q13_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan clearly makes extra effort to reach harder to reach communities and under-represented groups in the environmental movement

Including but not limited to:
• Black, Asian and other ethnic minorities
• People with disabilities
• People on lower incomes
• People from working class backgrounds
• Faith groups
• High carbon emitting businesses
• Farmers
• Land owners

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • The mention of a Citizen’s Assembly is enough to get the point.
  • It would be better if it outlines the details of the Citizens Assembly but this is not essential.
s4_coms_q13_sp3_new Max points:1

Question description

The Plan clearly states how residents, businesses and stakeholders will continue to be involved in the progress and delivery of the Plan.
Examples including but not limited to:
Creating a permanent community forum
Allocating community representation on key committees
Creating an ongoing online feedback page
Running online webinars and engagement sessions
Physical suggestion boxes in locations around the area

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s4_coms_q14

Question description

Does the Plan establish collaborative partnerships and secure commitments from different sectors within the community and include how the local authority and its leaders will work to influence and support other bodies?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not establish any collaborative partnerships and secure commitments from different sectors within the community or include how the local authority and its leaders will work to influence and support other bodies.

s4_coms_q14_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan identifies and establishes partnerships and secure commitments from different sectors within the community.

Mention partnerships with at least 3 different organisations or sectors to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• The voluntary sector
• The education sector
• The health sector
• Faith organisations
• Businesses (large and SME)
• Anchor institutions
• Universities
• High carbon emitting sectors
• Farming sector

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Mentions partnerships with at least 3 different organisations or sectors to get 1 point.
  • We are looking for whether the Plan has written specifically which partners they will be working with and ideally which projects each partner will be working on.
s4_coms_q14_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan includes how the local authority and its leaders will work to influence and support other bodies.

For example:
District councils could create climate emergency packs for parish councils in their area
Local authorities can influence Local Enterprise Partnerships, Combined Authorities, Sub-national Transport bodies and Contractors to reduce their own emissions and increase biodiversity

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • This is referring to authorities at a lower level than the national government such as other local authorities, council bodies, LEPs, parish councils or regional transport bodies.
  • One mention of a local organisation or body e.g. the local train station is not enough for the point.
s4_coms_q15

Question description

Is the Climate Emergency Action Plan easy to find on the local authority website?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan is very difficult to find: When searching for it, it does not appear and/or the plan is only accessible via an appendix on the relevant meeting minutes.

s4_coms_q15_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

It is possible to find the Action Plan when searching for it in the search bar.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • For this question, if the Plan achieves sub-point 3, also tick the boxes for sub-points 1 and 2. If the Plan achieves sub-point 2, also tick the box for sub-point 1. This is a cumulative score so Plans will get more marks if they complete higher sub-points.
  • The Plan score 0, 1 for sub-point 1 alone, 2 for sub-points 1 and 2, or 3 for sub-points 1, 2 and 3 combined.
s4_coms_q15_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

There is an environment and/or climate section in the drop down menu which clearly leads to the Plan.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s4_coms_q15_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan is accessible from the home page. This could be part of a Climate Emergency section that is advertised on the home page.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Must be able to find the plan in a maximum 2 clicks from the homepage to get the point e.g. click on the climate change icon, click on link to the plan.

s4_coms_q16

Question description

Is the Plan structured in a clear and accessible way?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan is inaccessible and unclear. This could include:

  • Too much jargon
  • Jargon is undefined
  • Too much text
  • Lack of signposting for sections
  • Lack of images, tables and infographics to help explain the content
s4_coms_q16_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The layout is clear and easy to read and understand.

This means:
• It is attractive to look at and entices people to read
• The layout is clear
• It is easy to navigate: there is a contents page, executive summary, clear outlines for objectives, timelines for actions and a table summary for actions.
• The sections are well signposted
• The language is accessible for everyone (any jargon used is defined)
• There are images, tables and infographics to help explain the content
• Colour is used well to aid understanding

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s4_coms_q17

Question description

Does the Plan have a clear communication strategy?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not have a clear communication strategy.

s4_coms_q17_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

There is a clear communication strategy for informing the public about updates on the Plan.*

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • If the plan outlines actions to create a communication plan then it gets the point.
  • The Plan may lay out its communications plan which could include:
    • Social media campaigning
    • A clear Climate Emergency section on the website which is regularly updated
    • Public forums
Measuring and setting emissions targets
s5_mset_q18

Question description

Does the Plan measure and set emissions targets for the whole district?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not measure and set emissions targets. If it only measures and sets targets for the council itself, rather than the area as a whole, it also doesn’t get the points.

s5_mset_q18_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan includes a baseline emission inventory for greenhouse gas emissions for the whole district.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Must be for the whole area not just the council.
  • The baseline emissions inventory should be set at 2005 or earlier. If it is set after 2005 it doesn’t get the point. This is because 2005 is when the UK government began releasing data for all local authorities.
s5_mset_q18_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan quantifies current greenhouse gas emissions for the whole district.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Must be for the whole area not just the council.
  • Quantifying current emissions is now/when the plan was written. Emissions data can take a few years to be worked out so lots of plans will be using 2017 data. This would qualify for the point.
s5_mset_q18_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan provides a breakdown of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions for the whole district.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Must be for the whole area not just the council.
  • To get this point scope 1 and scope 2 must be fully set out and scope 3 needs to be at least mentioned. Scope 3 emissions are much harder to quantify and it can be hard for councils to get this data so if they have made it clear why scope 3 hasn’t been fully broken down then they can have the point.
s5_mset_q19

Question description

Does the Plan highlight action areas for emissions reductions and not simply carbon offsetting?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not highlight action areas for emissions reductions and/or only concentrates on carbon offsetting.

s5_mset_q19_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan highlights action areas for emissions reductions.*

Identify at least 3 action areas to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• Energy and Heating
• The Built Environment
• Transport
• Agriculture and Food
• Waste
• The Circular Economy
• Water
• Planning and Land Use
• Commercial and Industrial
• Ecological Emergency and Biodiversity
• Air Quality and Pollution

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • At least 3 action areas = 1 point.
  • Action areas may also be referred to as action themes in plans.
  • Points can be given if these themes are for the council’s own estate or for the whole district.
s5_mset_q19_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

A hierarchy of carbon mitigation is established in which carbon offsetting is placed at the bottom, as a last resort only.*

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • It is important that the Plan has a clear strategy for reducing emissions and doesn’t just rely on carbon offsetting. If the Plan just focuses on offsetting it does not get the point.
  • The fact that a plan doesn’t talk much about offsetting shows that it isn’t focused on it so if there are ambitious and detailed plans for reduction and a small, or no mention of offsetting it should get the point. See figure 3
Co-benefits
s6_cb_q20

Question description

Does the Plan outline the co-benefits in all action areas?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not consider the co-benefits of climate change mitigation and adaptation.

s6_cb_q20_sp1 Max points:2

Question description

The Plan includes co-benefits in at least 3 of the following areas:

3 areas covered = 1 point

5 or more areas covered = 2 points

• Environmental
• Social
• Job creation
• Equity and social cohesion
• Health and wellbeing
• Resilience
• Citizen engagement
• Economy

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • 3 areas covered = 1 point
  • 5 or more areas covered = 2 points
  • Whether the action was designed as an environmental action that has other benefits, or was designed for another purpose and it happens to have environmental benefits, the Plan gets the points as long as it is outlined clearly.
s6_cb_q21

Question description

Does the Plan outline public health risks in the area as a result of climate change and include actions to address these risks across the different action themes?

s6_cb_q21_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan outlines public health risks in the area as a result of climate change.

Outline any health risks to get the point

Including but not limited to:
• Air quality (statistics for the area, deaths per year etc.)
• Exposure to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and other weather events, eg. flooding
• Invasive species carrying disease (mosquitoes etc.)
• Disease caused by contaminated flood water
• Pandemics and epidemics
• Distribution to supply chains resulting in lack of medication, food etc.
• Malnutrition
• Eco-anxiety

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Outline any health risk = 1 point
  • This question seems similar to question 7 ‘Does the Plan outline the implications of climate change for the local area?’ but it needs to explicitly talk about health risks to get the point. Just pointing out that the temperatures will increase in summer and there will be more rainfall in winter is not enough.
s6_cb_q21_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan includes actions to address the public health risks of climate change across the different action themes.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Diversity and inclusion
s7_dsi_q22

Question description

Does the Plan outline how to help those most vulnerable to the climate crisis?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not outline public health risks in the area as a result of climate change or include actions to address these risks across the different action themes.

s7_dsi_q22_sp1 Max points:2

Question description

The Plan outlines who climate change will harm the most.

If 3 groups are identified select option 1

If 5 or more groups are identified select option 2

Including but not limited to recognising:
• Intergenerational inequalities
• Racial inequalities
• Religious inequalities
• Class/economic inequalities
• Gender inequalities
• Disability inequalities
• LGBTQ+ inequalities
• Traveller communities

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • 3 groups identified = 1 point
  • 5 or more groups identified = 2 points
s7_dsi_q22_sp2 Max points:2

Question description

The Plan focuses resources to support these vulnerable communities.

3 areas covered = 1 point

5 or more areas covered = 2 points

Including but not limited to:
• Energy and fuel poverty
• Food insecurity
• Improving job skills, education and retraining
• Clean air and reducing pollution
• Flood risk and recovery
• Educational risks and social risks
• Quality of public space, green space and assets.
• Infrastructure
• Accessibility to key services/housing
• Affordability of public transport and access to active travel

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • 3 areas covered = 1 point
  • 5 or more areas covered = 2 points
  • The Plan needs to commit to actions to support the most vulnerable, not just vaguely say the council will help the vulnerable.
s7_dsi_q23

Question description

Does the Plan recognise how Councils and residents have differing responsibilities for climate action?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not recognise the council’s individual responsibility to climate action.

s7_dsi_q23_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan’s commitments reflect the council’s and the area’s responsibility to climate action based on its economic position, current and historic GHG emissions, level of authority and power.

This could include:
• Wealthier and higher tier council’s committing to help and support councils with fewer resources e.g. areas with greater staff capacity should lead on sharing best practice and learnings.
• Recognising that historically areas have financially benefited from carbon intensive industries e.g. mining and helping residents working in these industries to retrain
• Making it clear that those on lowest incomes are not expected to retrofit their own homes etc.
• Recognising why emissions in the area are high or low

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

Education, skills and training
s8_est_q24

Question description

Does the Plan include carbon and climate literacy training for staff and councillors?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not include carbon and climate literacy training for all staff and councillors.

s8_est_q24_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan does include carbon and climate literacy training for all staff and councillors.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s8_est_q25

Question description

Does the Plan include climate education for the public as a key component across the different action themes?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not include education as a key component across any of the action themes.

s8_est_q25_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan includes climate education in schools.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

The Plan needs to include actions to work with schools to teach children and staff about the climate crisis.

s8_est_q25_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan includes climate education for the public as a key component in the action plan. This refers not to school children and those in formal education but everyone.

Including but not limited to:
• Adults in work
• Adults out of work
• Carers
• Seniors
• Incarcerated people

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • The Plan should mention at least 2 different groups of adults to get this point. It may use different wording to the question e.g. parents, adult learning, residents.
  • Education in this case means awareness raising and informing residents and local businesses so that people have a better understanding of the issues and what they can do, and what the council can do to tackle them.
s8_est_q26

Question description

Does the Plan identify the training and upskilling of the workforce that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not identify the training and upskilling of the workforce that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed.

s8_est_q26_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan identifies the training and upskilling of the workforce in the local area that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed.

Including but not limited to:
• Re-training workers in high-carbon industries to low-carbon sectors
• Young people
• Local businesses
• Education providers
• Local employers

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

  • Example: "Invest £100,000 over four years to promote the growth of the low carbon economy in Wychavon, including increasing our investment in the Low Carbon Opportunities Programme and apprenticeship grants to businesses working in green technologies."
  • This would get the point for sub-point 1 because it recognises that employment and the economy needs to change and be supported to be lower carbon in terms of jobs.
s8_est_q26_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan identifies how the training will happen.

Including but not limited to:
• Who will provide the training
• Creating green apprenticeships
• Partnerships with Local Enterprise Partnerships, SMEs, schools, colleges, universities, job centres etc.
• Upskilling education providers and careers services in identifying future employment trends and • opportunities
• Incentivise re-training

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

But it would NOT get the point for sub-point 2 because it does not provide any detail on HOW this will happen, when it will happen and who will need to carry this out.

Ecological emergency
s9_ee_q27

Question description

Does the Plan address the ecological emergency?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not identify the training and upskilling of the workforce that is necessary to transform the local economy at the scale and pace needed.

s9_ee_q27_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan outlines actions to address the ecological emergency.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s9_ee_q27_sp2 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan recognises the impact climate change is having on biodiversity loss.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

If the local authority has declared an ecological emergency they will get this point.

s9_ee_q27_sp3 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan recognises the ecological services provided by habitat within the area and suggests nature-based solutions for climate mitigation and adaptation.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

s9_ee_q28

Question description

Does the Plan outline the ecological impact of climate mitigation and adaptation actions?

Give 0 points if:

The Plan does not outline the ecological impact of climate change mitigation and adaptation actions.

s9_ee_q28_sp1 Max points:1

Question description

The Plan outlines the ecological impact of specific carbon mitigation and adaptation actions set out in the Plan and suggests actions to address any negative impacts.

Additional criteria / Advice for marker

E.g. LED street lights have a negative impact on insects.

Glossary

Anchor Institutions

The term ‘anchor institutions’ is used to refer to organisations which:

  • Have an important presence in a place, usually through a combination of: being largescale employers, or the largest purchasers of goods and services in the locality; controlling large areas of land and/or having relatively fixed assets.
  • Are tied to a particular place by their mission, histories, physical assets and local relationships. Examples include local authorities, NHS trusts, universities, trade unions, large local businesses, the combined activities of the community and voluntary sector and housing associations.

Baseline emissions inventory

Quantifies the amount of CO2 emitted due to energy consumption in the territory of the Council in the baseline year, e.g. how much CO2 was emitted in 2005?

Capex

The money an organisation or corporate entity spends to buy, maintain, or improve its fixed assets, such as buildings, vehicles, equipment, or land.

Carbon budgets

A carbon budget is the cumulative amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions permitted over a period of time to keep within a certain temperature threshold. Each Local Authority has an allocated carbon dioxide budget for the years up to 2100 in order to stay on track with the Paris agreement.

Carbon negative

Going carbon negative refers to carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere after the council has achieved zero carbon. This means that not only are they no longer emitting carbon, but they are also actively removing carbon from the atmosphere as well.

Carbon Neutral

Carbon neutrality means balancing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by ‘offsetting’ – or removing from the atmosphere – an equivalent amount of carbon for the amount produced. This can be achieved by buying ‘carbon credits’ – in essence, permission to emit carbon dioxide or other GHG in exchange for offsetting the effects of those emissions – and/or by supporting GHG-reduction initiatives such as renewable-energy projects. However, a commitment to carbon neutrality does not require (or even necessarily imply) a commitment to reduce overall GHG emissions. A carbon-neutral business needs only to offset the GHG emissions it produces – even if those emissions are increasing.

Carbon Offsetting

A carbon offset is a reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases made in order to compensate for emissions made elsewhere. For example this could be by planting trees to suck carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.

Circular Economy

A circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and encouraging the continual use of resources.

Citizens’ Assembly

A Citizens’ Assembly is a representative group of citizens who are selected at random to reflect the demographics of the overall population to learn about, deliberate upon, and make recommendations in relation to a particular issue or set of issues. It is still up to elected politicians whether or not to follow the assembly’s recommendations.

Climate Change Mitigation

Efforts to reduce or prevent emission of greenhouse gases.

Co-benefits

The positive benefits related to the reduction of greenhouse gases, which may not be directly related to climate change. For example, the need for climate action may bring new jobs and opportunities for prosperity to a region.

Combined Authority

A combined authority is a type of local government institution in England, created voluntarily outside Greater London This model allows a group of local authorities to pool appropriate responsibility and receive certain delegated functions from central government in order to deliver transport and economic policy more effectively over a wider area

Corporate Plan

The Corporate Plan is an internal business planning document which sets out the council’s future priorities and objectives. This is important because a clearly set Corporate Plan ensures that the council manages its resources effectively.

  • It ensures that projects can be delivered by the council’s services and that enough capacity is available to deliver them. It provides a focus for the council’s Cabinet so it can plan its work - and the framework for the council’s scrutiny function to hold the Cabinet to account. It provides the framework for evaluating the council’s performance.

Costing

This refers to working out the financial cost of the actions set out in the plan, and may be very specific about each action, or may categorise actions into low, medium and high cost items before then outlining what range of costs each of these categories represents.

Critical infrastructure

The body of systems, networks and assets that are so essential that their continued operation is required to ensure the security of a given nation, its economy, and the public's health and/or safety.

Devolved Governments

The different countries in the UK have devolved governments: the Scottish Parliament, National Assembly of Wales and the Northern Ireland Assembly. Power is delegated from central government on a subnational level so the devolved territories have the power to make legislation relevant to the area.

Distribution Network Operators

(DNOs) are companies licensed to distribute electricity in Great Britain by the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets.

Divesting from fossil fuels

Divestment is the opposite of an investment – it simply means getting rid of stocks, bonds, or investment funds that are unethical or morally ambiguous. Divestment ensures an end to fossil fuel sponsorship, among other areas of investment.

Equity investors

Equity investors are people who invest money into a company, or this case a project, in exchange for a share of ownership in the company or project.

Financial return on investment

Return on investment is a financial ratio used to calculate the benefit an investor will receive in relation to their investment cost.

Fuel poverty

A household is said to be in fuel poverty when its members cannot afford to keep adequately warm at a reasonable cost, given their income.

Heat Islands

Heat islands are urbanised areas that experience higher temperatures than outlying areas. Structures such as buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorb and re-emit the sun’s heat more than natural landscapes such as forests and water bodies.

Housing Associations

A Housing Association is a not-for-profit organisation: all profits are reinvested back into their homes and services. They can rent and sell homes, which are usually classed as ‘affordable’. They often run via a democratic system of governance. HR - Human Resources - the HR department is a group who is responsible for managing the employee life cycle within an organisation (i.e. recruiting, hiring, onboarding, training, and firing employees) and administering employee benefits.

Lobbying

Lobbying is when an individual or a group tries to persuade someone in Parliament to support a particular policy or campaign.

Local Enterprise Partnerships

Local Enterprise Partnerships are locally-owner partnerships between local authorities and businesses. An LEP plays a central role in deciding local economic priorities and undertaking activities to drive economic growth and create local jobs.

Local Plan

A Local Plan is a document created by the council, setting out their priorities over the coming years. Plans should be succinct and up-to-date, should provide a positive vision for the future of each area and put forward a framework for addressing housing needs and other economic, social and environmental priorities.

Local Statutory Organisations

A Local Statutory Organisation is any government agency or body created in the UK, by an Act of Parliament or other legislation. Examples include: the Healthcare Commission, the General Medical Council, the General Dental Council, NHS, primary care trusts (PCTs), hospital trusts, social services departments, etc.

Net-zero

Net-zero means that the amount of greenhouse gases emitted will equal the amount which is taken out of the atmosphere by carbon offsetting. This is different from Zero Carbon which means the authority would be emitting no carbon at all. The net-zero target is the date which is set for when the organisation/area/country aims to reach net-zero. A good net-zero target will be very clear about what is covered in the target, e.g. whether it is the council’s own operations or the whole area that will be net-zero, which gases are covered etc.

NGOs

Non-governmental organisations are bodies such as charities or foundations which work for public or social good, independent of government.

Procurement

Procurement refers to he purchase of goods and services by a company or organisation.

Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions


Scope 1 Emissions

Greenhouse Gas emissions from sources located within the local authority boundary. These include:

  • Council only: A council’s direct emissions, e.g. emissions from council buildings, fleet vehicles and equipment, and land use.
  • Whole District/County: Emissions within the local authority boundary e.g. those caused by transportation, privately owned buildings, stationary energy; agriculture and land use; in-boundary waste etc.
Scope 2 Emissions

Greenhouse Gas emissions occurring due to the use of grid-supplied electricity, heat, and/or cooling for council and private buildings and services within the city boundary.

Scope 3 Emissions

Includes all Greenhouse Gas emissions that occur outside the city boundary as a result of activities taking place within the city boundary. These include:

  • Council only: Emissions generated by purchased goods and services; business travel, commuting, grey fleet (employee owned cars claiming mileage back by expenses); waste disposal for contracted out waste processing; use of sold products and services (emissions related to local people’s use of local authority services); investments; leased assets, franchises and outsourcing (all contractor emissions).
  • Whole District/County: Emissions generated by out of boundary transportation (travel by commuters, railways and airports); out of boundary waste; residents’ diet and consumption; transmission and distribution of electricity, heating and/or cooling.1

SME

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises is a label that refers to the number of employees and level of turnover in a business.

Stakeholders

A party that has an interest in the project and can either affect or be affected by it. For Climate Action Plans, stakeholders might include: the council, its residents, business owners who supply goods to the council, etc.

Sub-national Transport Bodies

A sub-national transport body (STB) groups councils together to. provide strategic transport governance at a much larger scale than existing local transport authorities could manage independently.

Supply chain

In Local Government a supply chain is a system of organisations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in supplying a product or service to the residents and businesses in the area. Supply chain activities involve the transformation of natural resources, raw materials, and components into a finished product that is delivered to the end customer.

Tyndall Center Data

The Tyndall Centre is a partnership of universities bringing together researchers from the social and natural sciences and engineering to develop sustainable responses to climate change. It works with leaders from the public and private sectors to promote informed decisions on mitigating and adapting to climate change. For each council in the UK the Tyndall Centre has created a tool to allow local authorities to calculate their carbon budgets between now and the year 2100 to cut their emissions in line with climate science and the UN Paris Agreement. The tool shows the council how much they must reduce their carbon emissions every year in order to reach this goal. See more

Utility Companies

Utility companies are the bodies providing energy, electricity, water, natural gas, sanitation and waste disposal.

VCSE/Third Sector

The Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector includes any organisation working for social purposes, ranging from small community based groups and schemes to larger registered charities that operate locally, regionally or nationally.

VCSE/Third Sector

The Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector includes any organisation working for social purposes, ranging from small community based groups and schemes to larger registered charities that operate locally, regionally or nationally.

Workplace Parking Levy

A Workplace Parking Levy is a cost which encourages workers to take sustainable transport options rather than drive their car to work, as it charges them for parking. Nottingham City Council successfully introduced a Workplace Parking Levy, and ring fenced the money raised for public transport upgrades in the city2.