Decision

Purpose of report

The report seeks the approval of the Net Zero Action Plan (NZAP) 2026 - 2029 prior to publication, along with the progress report for the prior year. The plan was endorsed by the Natural Infrastructure and Growth Scrutiny Panel on the 16 July 2026. The NZAP is the City Council's climate action plan, which covers a three-year period and is rolled forward annually. It identifies actions to tackle the direct greenhouse gas emissions of the Council. It also sets how the Council will use its influence to support the City-wide net zero agenda. This new NZAP includes 45 actions, each of which reflect our more strategic focus on transport, buildings and behaviour change, and is underpinned with measurable goals for these themes.

Decision

Cabinet supported and approved the Plymouth City Council Net Zero Action Plan 2026-2029.

Reasons for decision

To ensure that the Council continues to play its part in helping Plymouth transition to a net zero city by setting out its commitments to directly reduce its own greenhouse gas emissions and to use its influence to support the city in reducing emissions.

Alternative options considered and rejected

To not roll forward the NZAP and instead allow the prior year NZAP to run through until 2028 before reviewing it. However, the Council's response to the net zero challenge does change over time, as some existing initiatives are delivered, new opportunities are identified and lessons from previous initiatives are learnt. It is important that our action plans continue to reflect this evolution.

Declarations of interest

None declared in respect of this item.