Dartford Borough Council recognised that we are facing a Climate Emergency in October 2019. The Council has set its own target of reaching Net Zero by 2030 and has developed a draft strategy that explains how the Council intends to step up to meet the challenge and turn the climate emergency declaration into a plan of action that will refocus the Council’s activity, operations and spheres of influence to reduce emissions, increase sustainability and benefit the wider environment.
'Net Zero' refers to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. We reach Net Zero when the amount we add is no more than the amount taken away.
Delivered under the “Planet Dartford” banner the strategy details how the Council will respond to the climate emergency whilst working together, with all stakeholders, to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss. You can view the steps the Council has already taken on our journey to Net Zero by clicking the following link: What has the Council achieved so far?
In developing the Strategy the Council consulted with our partners and communities to seek their views on the priorities and targets we have set ourselves and how they can work with us to bring forward some of the changes that are needed to the way we live and work. You can view the full Net Zero Strategy and Action Plan below:
Net Zero Strategy (Full Version)
Net Zero Strategy Summary
A summary of the vision, aims and key priorities within the Strategy are highlighted below:
Our Vision: Planet Dartford
The Council has been working for many years to improve sustainability in the borough through the following strategic work; Dartford Local Plan, Air Quality Action Plan, Decarbonising our corporate estate, energy efficiency improvements to our housing stock and private sector housing and many more. The Council has also established several local environmental initiatives too, including; planting more trees, establishing community orchards, seeking to manage its open spaces to improve biodiversity, reducing waste and spreading the word about greener ways to live, work and travel. We’re bringing these initiatives together under one banner - Planet Dartford.
Our Aims
Change Ourselves
We want to lead from the front on Climate Change and have set ourselves a target of reaching Net Zero by 2030
Help Others To Change
Actions to tackle climate change will need action from all of Dartford’s communities, businesses, groups and households. The council will support others to make good choices.
Spread The Word
We will support the message that climate action is important and seek to influence millions of choices taken by tens of thousands of people in dozens of communities. Planet Dartford aim to take our climate change message to every part of the community
Our Key Priorities
Dartford Borough Council Organisational Emissions
Focus: The Council aims to reduce its organisational carbon emissions to net-zero by 2030
Transport
Focus: Support the shift towards cleaner modes of transport and reduce car dependency with co-benefits to air quality and health.
Built Environment
Focus: Improve the energy efficiency of buildings and support the shift away from fossil fuel powered heating systems to low-carbon technologies.
Energy Generation
Focus: support the generation of renewable energy across the Borough.
Waste
Focus: Support the Borough to reduce waste, reuse, recycle, compost and encourage a circular economy.
Land Use & Biodiversity
Focus: Protect, enhance and increase green space for the benefit of people, wildlife, flood defence and carbon capture.
Governance and Finance
Focus: Embed climate change in all decision-making and governance at the Council.
Collaboration & Engagement
Focus: Empower residents, businesses and communities to make informed decisions on climate change and access relevant grants.