Ways to Achieve Net Zero in Swindon

by Josh, Swindon Youth Voice

Swindon Borough Council has shown ambition by committing to Net Zero emissions by 2030 and supporting the wider borough to achieve Net Zero by 2050. This is a commendable mission, however, the climate emergency demands we move from strategy to accelerated, transformative action to secure a healthy, prosperous future for all Swindon residents, especially for the younger generation.

Transform Swindon’s Buildings

Energy in buildings is one of the largest contributors to the borough’s emissions.

• Mass Retrofitting: Secure and deploy the necessary funding for a borough-wide retrofit program. Focus not just on council homes, but also on creating a local supply chain and skills academy to support private homeowners and businesses in reaching EPC Band C or higher*. Prioritise support for low-income and fuel-poor households to tackle fuel poverty alongside emissions.

• Decarbonise Heat: Actively invest in and plan for district heating networks in dense urban areas where feasible. Accelerate the transition from gas boilers by providing clear guidance and incentives for the adoption of heat pumps and other low-carbon heating solutions across all property types.

Decarbonise Local Transport

Transport accounts for a significant portion of local emissions. We must create a system where the default choice is the lowest-carbon option.

• Active Travel Infrastructure: Commit to significantly increasing investment in sage, integrated, and well-maintained walking and cycling infrastructure. Create a connected network that makes “Active Travel” the most convenient choice for short, local journeys.

• Public and Electric Transport: Work with bus operators to rapidly decarbonise the public bus fleet. Accelerate the rollout of a comprehensive and user-friendly electric vehicle charging network across residential areas and key destinations to support the shift to zero-emission vehicles.

Power Swindon with Local Renewables

We must increase local, clean energy generation to cut reliance on fossil fuels and strengthen energy resilience.

• Council Leadership in Solar: Building on the success of projects like the solar farms, identify and utilise all viable council-owned assets – from rooftops of public buildings to former landfill sites – for additional solar and battery storage installations.·       Carbon Literacy for All: Expand the current carbon literacy training to ensure all councillors and key officers are fully equipped to embed climate impact assessment into every budget and policy decision. Continue to promote the “Be the Change” campaign to inspire wider action.

• Planning Policy: Use planning powers to require all new major developments to meet the highest achievable net zero standards, including mandates for renewable energy generation and energy storage on-site.

Strengthen Community Engagement and Governance

Net Zero is a collective effort. The Council must empower every resident and local business to participate.

• Local Partnerships: Formalise a Net Zero Partnership Board bringing together key local stakeholders: major employers, education providers, community groups, and Parish Councils, whilst also including young people in these meetings. Use this platform for coordinated action, resource sharing, and joint funding bids.

• Carbon Literacy for All: Expand the current carbon literacy training to ensure all councillors and key officers are fully equipped to embed climate impact assessment into every budget and policy decision. Continue to promote the “Be the Change” campaign to inspire wider action.

Let’s make Swindon a national leader in climate action, securing a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient borough for all.