Worthing sees drop in CO2 emissions since 2005 – but major report warns UK is lagging in fight against climate change

The local authority in Worthing has seen a drop in carbon dioxide emissions since 2005, new figures show.

The data comes as a new report heavily criticises the Government for a lack of action on climate change.

Greenhouse gas emissions are normally measured in kilotonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (ktCO2e).

New figures from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero show carbon dioxide emissions in Worthing have dropped 48.9% from a total of 556 ktCO2e in 2005 – when data is first available – to 284 ktCO2e in 2021.

This was the equivalent of 2.5 tonnes of CO2 emitted per person in 2021.

These figures cover emissions "within the scope of influence" of the local authority, meaning it excludes pollution from sources such as motorways and large industrial plants.

Sandra Bell, campaigner at Friends of the Earth, an environmental charity said: "There remains significant variation in how local authorities are performing on climate, and no council is getting everything right - nor will they until they are given more powers and funding from central government.

“National climate targets will not be met unless the government recognises the vital role that councils must play in working with communities to achieve transformative change."

Ms Bell urged for a council-led, street-by-street insulation programme to help drive emissions down.

The Local Government Association, which represents local authorities, has suggested a similar approach.

Councillor David Rodwell, the organisation's environment spokesperson, said councils are best placed to deliver on climate pledges.

He added councils need backing to "rapidly retrofit social and fuel poor homes, decarbonise transport, protect and grow biodiversity, and powers to roll out renewable energy schemes.”