Sustainability & Environmental Consulting

The case study focuses on the collaborative effort between the Environmental Change Institute (ECI) at the University of Oxford and Bioregional to create a roadmap for achieving a zero-carbon Oxfordshire by 2050. This initiative was prompted by the declaration of climate emergencies by all six local authorities in Oxfordshire and the need for a structured approach to decarbonisation, supported by 12 local organizations including the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Oxford Brookes University.

Oxfordshire faces significant challenges, particularly due to a projected growth phase that includes plans for 100,000 new homes by 2031. This growth could complicate decarbonisation efforts, as current building practices do not meet high energy efficiency standards and rely heavily on natural gas for heating. The report emphasizes the necessity for a substantial increase in the installation of solar photovoltaics, the promotion of active travel, public transport, electric vehicles, and the construction of net-zero homes, alongside retrofitting existing homes with energy-efficient technologies.

The tailored solution provided through the report includes a detailed analysis of the current state of carbon emissions in Oxfordshire, identifying areas for improvement and setting clear targets for the future. The report serves as an evidence base for local authorities to develop carbon reduction plans, encouraging collaboration among stakeholders to address emissions effectively. The establishment of partnerships, such as the Zero Carbon Oxford partnership and Oxfordshire Greentech, is highlighted as a crucial step for fostering innovation and accountability in the region's low-carbon initiatives.

The quantifiable results of this initiative are still unfolding, but the report has already garnered significant attention, with over 150 questions raised during its launch webinar, indicating a strong community interest in furthering the recommendations. The proactive engagement from local authorities and stakeholders suggests a growing momentum towards achieving the ambitious goal of a zero-carbon economy in Oxfordshire, with the potential for broader implications for climate action in other regions.