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Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Council cuts carbon emissions by 43% since 2019 but set to miss net 2030 zero targets

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk County Council has reduced its direct carbon emissions by 43% since declaring a climate emergency in 2019 but faces challenges meeting its 2030 net zero target.

Why it matters: The figures demonstrate significant progress in the council's climate commitments while highlighting the complex challenge of reducing indirect emissions, which make up 65% of its carbon footprint.

The big picture: A new report to be presented to the council's Scrutiny Committee on 21 November shows:

  • Direct emissions from council buildings, vehicles and street lighting have fallen 43% since 2019.

  • This rises to 75% when accounting for the switch to renewable electricity.

  • The council ranks among England's top three county councils for direct emission reductions.

Entrance to Endeavour House, the Suffolk County Council office building
Suffolk County Council has reduced building energy use by 25% since 2019Oliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

By the numbers:

  • Street and traffic lights: 57% reduction

  • Council vehicles: 50% reduction

  • Building gas and oil use: 37% reduction

  • Staff commuting: 30% reduction

  • Building electricity use: 25% reduction

Yes, but: The council faces bigger hurdles with "Scope 3" emissions – indirect emissions from areas like home-to-school transport and staff using their own vehicles for work. These make up nearly two-thirds of total emissions and are projected to fall by only 48% by 2030.

The bottom line: "Although our latest report suggests that we are not currently on course to meet our net zero targets across all scopes, as new products, services, and opportunities become increasingly available, I think greater reductions will be achievable," said Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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