The Sustainability Committee of Aberdeenshire Council met on Wednesday 19 August 2026 to review progress on the council's carbon budget and climate action roadmap, and to consider the renewal of Aberdeenshire's Fairtrade Zone status. The committee noted encouraging progress on carbon reduction targets, with estimated savings increasing significantly, and reviewed the ongoing implementation of the Route Map to 2030 and Beyond action plan. The committee agreed to commit the council to its continued support of Fairtrade Zone status in Aberdeenshire.

Carbon Budget 2026-2027 Progress Update

The committee received an update on the council's carbon budget for 2026-2027, which indicated that the target of 46,763 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) was likely to be achieved. Estimated emission savings had risen substantially from 94 tCO2e to 2,930 tCO2e. This increase was attributed to several factors, including asset disposals, planned maintenance, and a reduction in the electricity emission factor for 2026, as published by the UK Government. Councillor Anouk Kloppert questioned the impact of the reduced electricity emission factor, asking for clarity on progress made without this external benefit. Claudia Cowie, Team Leader for Sustainability and Climate Change, explained that emission factors fluctuate annually and are integral to the overall carbon reduction strategy, particularly as the grid greens. Councillor Paul Johnston raised concerns about the narrative surrounding energy sources, suggesting that reports should also present figures for alternative energy sources being promoted, such as North Sea gas, to provide a fuller picture. Emma Donaldson from the energy team provided cost comparisons for different fuel sources, noting that electricity was significantly more expensive than gas, oil, or kerosene. Councillor Iain Taylor emphasised the importance of efficiency, regardless of energy source, and noted the wider impact of grid decarbonisation on the county. Councillor Johnston also reflected on the council's legacy, suggesting a need to summarise achievements and urge continued climate action for the incoming council.

Route Map to 2030 and Beyond Progress Update

The committee reviewed the progress of the Route Map to 2030 and Beyond action plan, which aims to guide the council towards its climate change commitments. The report indicated significant progress on many actions, with an increasing number now marked as completed. The remaining actions will be incorporated into a new five-year climate change action plan. Councillor Iain Taylor raised questions regarding scope two and scope three emissions, particularly concerning the council's reliance on supplier data and the potential for discrepancies. Claudia Cowie explained the complexities of scope three emissions, especially those related to procurement, and stated that the council would await further guidance and methodology from the Scottish Government and consultants Aether before fully addressing these. Councillor Paul Johnston offered further suggestions for the upcoming action plan, including the valuation of carbon and the potential for growing our own energy, and proposed joint sessions with officers to discuss these ideas. Councillor Gillian Owen expressed concerns about the ongoing internal audit scrutiny, but acknowledged the need to address the outstanding actions. The committee noted the extensive work undertaken by Claudia Cowie and her team in developing these plans.

Aberdeenshire Fair Trade Zone Renewal

The committee considered the renewal of Aberdeenshire's Fairtrade Zone status, a designation that demonstrates the council's ongoing commitment to ethical and sustainable consumption. The report highlighted the extensive work undertaken by volunteers across Aberdeenshire to promote Fairtrade principles, including awareness-raising, community engagement, and the promotion of Fairtrade products. The draft renewal application, attached as an appendix, detailed the activities and partnerships that have sustained Fairtrade efforts. Councillor Judy Whyte, Provost, acknowledged the progress made and supported the continuation of the status, noting that the council's role is primarily facilitative and that there are no additional costs. She also highlighted the report's mention of challenges related to volunteer capacity and community engagement, and welcomed the planned messaging around fast fashion, local food, and global supply chains. The committee agreed to commit the council to its continued support of Fairtrade Zone status in Aberdeenshire.