Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 25, 2025

Purpose: Paper to revise and bring forward the carbon reduction targets set out in the Council’s Natural Environment, Climate and Ecology Strategy.

Content: (a)           That the revised greenhouse gas emission reduction 5-year milestones and trajectories to net zero, be agreed. (b)           That the Natural Environment, Climate and Ecology Strategy be updated to reflect revised targets and trajectories and required programmes of work. (c)           That £6.025 million be allocated from the Capital programme be allocated to support the acceleration of the Council’s carbon reduction programme to 2027. (d)           That authority be delegated to Executive Director for Corporate Development in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Climate, Performance and Safeguarding to approve individual item spend within the £6.025million programme of work. Reason for the decision The Dorset Council Plan 2024-29 sets tackling the climate and nature emergencies as one of four strategic priorities. That included bringing forward the council and county net zero carbon targets by 5 years to 2035 and 2045 respectively. The new corporate targets required a revision of the trajectories and interim targets currently outlined in the Natural Environment, Climate and Ecology Strategy and consideration of the action required to accelerate delivery.