Issue - meetings

The Executive Member for Community Safety and the Environment submitted a report on the progress achieved during the first three years of implementing the East Herts Climate Change Action Plan, the detail of which was set out in the report now submitted and supporting Essential Reference Papers.

The Environmental and Strategy Development Manager explained that there had been a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions in relation to the waste contract via improved scheduling of rounds, more energy efficient vehicles and the introduction of energy efficiency measures at Hertford Theatre.  Savings had also been achieved at Wallfields, but occupancy had increased with the closure of The Causeway office.  Energy usage had increased at Leisure Centres but this had to been viewed in the context of increasing membership levels and the expansion of the service to include larger gymnasiums.

In response to a query from Councillor K Warnell concerning a review of the action plan, the Environmental and Strategy Development Manager confirmed that a cost benefit analysis was undertaken before any project was progressed.   The issue of energy savings through “powering down” computer equipment was discussed.  Councillor K Warnell stated that energy could be saved via a two stage standby and recommended that IT should review this.  The Head of Environmental Services suggested that he would pass these comments on to IT for further review.

The Committee received the report.

RESOLVED – that the report be noted.