
Since Elmbridge declared a climate emergency in 2019, climate change and sustainability have been fundamental to our work. That commitment is now enshrined in our 2030 Vision for a thriving and sustainable Elmbridge, driven by the power of our community.
On 5 July, Elmbridge Cabinet supported the work being done by the council to tackle climate change and improve sustainability in Elmbridge and to protect our environment.
Our climate change and sustainability work spans cleaner air and energy, carbon reduction in business and biodiversity for example and covers policy, funding, and action, in addition to communicating and engaging with the Elmbridge community.
Councillor David Young, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Sustainability is proud to present the work of the last six months to the Elmbridge Cabinet:
“Elmbridge Borough Council has taken a lead role in combatting climate change through reducing our own carbon emitting activities in buildings and fleet.
“We also want to support the valiant efforts of our community groups focused on climate change and sustainability, plus inspire and engage with our residents, businesses and schools to make sustainable choices.
“In collaboration with our strategic partners and our residents we will deliver on our vision for a sustainable Elmbridge.”
Cleaner energy

- A collection of 973 solar panels have been installed at the council owned Xcel Leisure Complex in Walton-on-Thames. It is expected they will reduce electrical consumption on site by 40%* and will lead to an estimated CO2 saving of over 75 tonnes per year, based on an estimated annual generation of 304 M Wh.
- Solar panels have also been installed at our Centres for the Community in Walton, Cobham, Claygate, Hersham and Molesey, as well as Hersham Village Hall.
Carbon reduction in business

- We recently launched the Green Business Boost fund which allows high street independents, as well as small and medium enterprises across Elmbridge, to benefit from funding to help them become more sustainable by reducing their carbon emissions.
Cleaner air in Elmbridge

- As part of the Sustainable Elmbridge communications and engagement programme, we launched #IdleFreeElmbridge in February 2023, a campaign to raise awareness around idling and the potential risks it poses to Elmbridge’s air quality. Local schools have embraced the campaign and we have been invited to schools to talk to our younger residents about the benefits of clean air.
- We have installed three sets of electric vehicles charging points in our car parks in Esher, Weybridge and Cobham, with a fourth scheduled for Walton-on-Thames this summer.
- The creation and implementation of the Green Fleet Strategy 2030 sets out our plan to decarbonise the council’s fleet vehicles by 2030.
Biodiversity

A thriving Elmbridge also involves creating the best environment for wildlife and biodiversity.
- When the draft Local Plan has been successful in its examination, the policies within it relating to biodiversity and ecology will allow for its continued protection and enhancement in development.
- Working with our partners at NatureSpace, safeguards are being adopted for the great crested newt and through the River Thames Scheme habitats will be created on Desborough Island.
You can read the Elmbridge Cabinet agenda and watch the webcast.
More information on Sustainable Elmbridge.