Climate Change

Words like climate change and global warming can be hard to relate to as we go about our everyday business. But we are seeing changes in our weather or climate.

Mid Beds are looking at what the council can do to reduce the carbon emissions it generates through its own business activities which contribute to global warming. At the recent "Moving to Another World" conference Mid Beds signed the Nottingham Declaration pledging:-
"We acknowledge the increasing impact that climate change will have on our community during the 21st century and commit to tackling the causes and effects of a changing climate on our district."

Mid Beds has put together a plan which has a list of things the council can do to reduce it’s own carbon emissions:

The council is serious about reducing its impact on the environment. The 3628 tonnes produced each year is set to reduce by 12% based on recent changes to the way we work.

Recent changes include:

  • A green tariff for energy usage at the council’s headquarters, Priory House – 323 tonnes saved
  • Using recycled paper – 90 tonnes saved
  • Home working – 14 tonnes saved
  • Relaunch of Car Lift Scheme – 7 tonnes saved
  • Switching off office equipment at night  - 27 tonnes saved

What is a carbon footprint?


A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact human activities have on the environment in terms of the amount of green house gases produced, measured in units of carbon dioxide. With the help of Cranfield University an initial assessment of the council’s carbon footprint and what we can do to reduce it has been completed.

For more information on the council’s response to climate change see links below:

Here's 10 things you can do today:

  • Invest in a shopping bag and take it instead of using plastic carrier bags some of which take 100 years to decompose.
  • Switch off appliances you’re not using, don’t leave them on standby. Unplugging appliances will save the most energy, especially when you’re on holiday.
  • Change your light bulbs to energy efficient ones. Some types last 12 times longer than an ordinary bulb. Replacing just one could save you £78 over the lifetime of the bulb.
  • If you’re not filling up the dishwasher, tumble dryer or washing machine use the half load or economy cycle.
  • Turning your thermostat down by 1 degree could cut your heating bills by up to 10%.
  • Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through the windows.
  • Only boil as much water as you need (but remember to cover the elements if you’re using an electric kettle).
  • In just one day, a dripping hot water tap wastes enough water to fill a bath. Make sure they’re turned off.

Further information available from the following external websites:

If you would like further information on the council’s response to climate change please email the Policy Team or telephone on 01462 611007.