The Reading Climate
Emergency Strategy 2020-25

Annual Report 2020/21 November 2021

Reading Climate Emergency Strategy 2020-25

1st Annual Progress Report (2020/21)

Produced by Reading Climate Change Partnership/Reading Climate Action Network (November 2021)

CONTENTS

FOREWORD	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	3

INTRODUCTION	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	4

PROGRESS REPORT ON READING’S EMISSIONS	.	.	.	.	.	4

Measuring Reading’s emissions	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	4

Progress towards net zero by 2030	.	.	.	.	.	.	5

Progress on improving resilience to climate impacts	.	.	.	.	6

Examples of progress in 2020/21	.	.	.	.	.	.	7

PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN DELIVERY	.	.	.	.	.	.	10

SUMMARY & CONCLUSIONS	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	10

ANNEX 1: CLIMATE EMERGENCY STRATEGY ACTION PLAN UPDATES	.	.	.	12

FOREWORD

The Reading Climate Emergency Strategy was published in November 2020 in the midst of the global pandemic. The ramifications of the pandemic continue – and despite being pushed temporarily from the headlines by the public health crisis, the impacts of climate change continue. Indeed, they are becoming ever more apparent, with multiple climate-related disasters being reported from around the globe, with the attendant risks to life, livelihoods and property underlining the need for urgent and sustained action at international, national and local levels.

In the year that the UK hosts the COP26 talks in Glasgow, presided over by one of Reading’s MPs, the Rt Hon Alok Sharma MP, it is particularly important that the UK and Reading are seen to be leading the way on climate action, and setting an example for others to follow. Honest and transparent reporting are an important part of climate leadership and this report, summarising progress on the first anniversary of the new Reading Climate Emergency Strategy, is presented in that context.

In producing this first annual progress report we have sought to answer two key questions relating to activity and impact: firstly, have we done what we said we would do? Secondly, is it having the desired effect? The answer to both questions – a qualified ‘yes’ – will come as no surprise, but there is sufficient evidence of progress to build confidence that we can rise to the challenges which lie ahead. At the same time, we are under no illusions about the need for the pace of progress to accelerate if we are to meet our ambitions for a ‘net zero, resilient Reading by 2030’. In short, in a climate emergency, complacency is not an option and much more needs to be done.

We are extremely grateful to the colleagues, partners, organisations and individuals who have taken action on climate change to help us work towards this ambition. We have been unable to capture every action taken in this report but felt it important to record our thanks as every action taken, no matter how small, can make a difference.

Tracey Rawling-Church and Tim Dixon

Co-Chairs, Reading Climate Change Partnership

November 2021

INTRODUCTION

The Reading Climate Emergency Strategy 2020-25 was published in November 2020 and included a commitment to review progress annually. This progress report represents the first annual report on the new Strategy. In producing this progress report we have sought to answer two key questions relating to activity and impact: are we delivering the actions included within the strategy? And are we making progress with reducing emissions and making progress towards the goal of a net zero, resilient Reading by 2030? Accordingly, the report combines:

An assessment of progress against the headline targets in the strategy (section 2)

An overview of progress with the action plans on which the strategy is based (section 3)

A detailed account of progress with the action plans on which the strategy is based (Annex 1)

While the report has been produced by the Reading Climate Change Partnership and reflects progress with action to which a wide range of partner organisations have contributed, in the interests of transparency the report is being submitted to the November 2021 meeting of Reading Borough Council’s Strategic Environment Planning and Transport Committee.

PROGRESS REPORT ON READING BOROUGH EMISSIONS

Measuring Reading’s emissions

The Reading Climate Emergency Strategy reinforced the goal of a ‘net zero Reading by 2030’ which was first set out in the Climate Emergency Declaration passed by the Council in February 2019 on behalf of the wider community.

Carbon dioxide emissions statistics for UK local authority areas are compiled by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and published annually as ‘The UK local authority and regional carbon dioxide emissions national statistics’. This dataset represents the most reliable and consistent breakdown of CO2 emissions across the country, using nationally available data sets going back to 2005.

The BEIS statistics include a data subset for ‘Carbon dioxide emissions within the scope of influence of local authorities’. This excludes sources of emissions which cannot realistically be influenced by local action such as those arising from motorway traffic, large industrial installations (excluding power stations) within the EU Emissions Trading System, diesel railways and land use change.

We use this dataset to track progress towards net zero by 2030 target as, while it does not substantially change the headline figure for emissions reduction in Reading compared to the main BEIS dataset, it does reflect the sources of emissions from Reading over which local partner organisations and residents have most control and influence.

While these statistics undoubtedly represent the most comprehensive and robust assessment of emissions by local authority area, it is important to recognise their limitations. Chief among these is the fact that they measure ‘territorial’ or ‘production’ emissions (goods, products and services made or provided in Reading), but do not take account of emissions arising from consumption (things used or eaten in Reading but produced outside Reading).

This latter calculation would add a significant proportion to Reading’s ‘real-world’ carbon footprint due to our reliance on imported food and other products. This is not to say that our Strategy ignores the issue of emissions arising from consumption – on the contrary, measures to tackle such emissions feature prominently in the Action Plans on which the Strategy is based – but it does mean that the impact of these actions will not necessarily be reflected in the headline measure of the Borough’s carbon footprint used to measure progress towards net zero.

Progress toward net zero by 2030

The headline measure of Reading’s progress towards net zero is the reduction in Reading’s emissions since 2005 based on the national emissions dataset which records ‘emissions within the scope of influence of local authorities’ which have been compiled since that date. The 2019 statistics (the latest year for which data is available) were published in July 2021 and suggest that the Borough’s carbon footprint fell from 974 kt to 493 kt (a reduction of 49.4%) between 2005 and 2019. Figure 1 summarises the reduction in Reading Borough’s emissions over that period, broken down by key sectors.

Figure 1: reduction in carbon dioxide emissions within the scope of influence of local authorities from Reading Borough 2005-19

This reduction was the 5th highest reduction of 379 UK local authority areas, suggesting that Reading is leading the way in national efforts to reduce emissions by this measure. It is important to note that as these statistics relate to 2019, they were calculated before any of the pandemic related restrictions on travel and consumption which began in March 2020, and we would expect to be able to interpret more about the impact of those measures from next year’s data, due in July 2022, which will cover the calendar year 2020.

While not all of the 49% (rounded) reduction since 2005 can be attributed to local action – a significant portion of it arises from national policies to decarbonise the energy going into the national grid such as offshore wind – the way in which Reading’s economy has developed, with a focus on high-tech sectors with relatively greater reliance on electricity, and relatively less reliance on gas and other fossil fuels, has enabled the Borough to benefit from the lower carbon energy now coming through the grid. Additionally, of course the benefits of lower carbon grid energy are experienced by every local authority area, and the fact that Reading has seen the 5th largest reduction out of 379 UK local authority areas still provides meaningful evidence that Reading is heading in the right direction, and doing so faster than most.

However, it remains equally clear that there is much more to do – the current rate of emissions reduction would need to approximately double to bring the net zero by 2030 target within reach. Some of this should happen without local action if national policy to decarbonise the grid continue to be implemented successfully, but the remainder will undoubtedly be influenced by and dependent on local action by all key stakeholders.

The Strategy document made clear that progress towards the aspiration of a ‘net zero Reading by 2030’ was unlikely to take the form of a straight-line reduction in emissions, and it was always likely that the pace of emissions reduction would need to accelerate as the decade progressed. The data appear to confirm that the challenge will indeed increase as the decade advances – but they also show that we are making good progress which should build confidence in our ability to tackle the huge challenge which the achievement of ‘net zero’ represents.

Progress on improving resilience to climate impacts

The vision for the Reading Climate Emergency Strategy has two key elements – first, reducing emissions to net zero by 2030, and, second, making Reading more resilient to the impacts of a changing climate. Whilst we have metrics for the former as summarised above, there is no simple means of measuring the latter. However, the Action Plans within the Strategy include a number of actions designed to adapt to climate impacts, and progress with these is summarised in section 3 and Annex 1.

Overall, while there are well-established mechanisms for adaptation planning in some areas like flood risk management and heatwave planning, it is fair to say that adaptation planning in Reading (like many other areas) is at a developmental stage, and that, while we have a good understanding of the potential impacts, further work is needed to raise awareness of these and the steps which public services, businesses, organisations and individuals need to take to improve their resilience to the impacts of a changing climate.

2.4	Examples of progress

It is important to celebrate progress on the journey to net zero and there have been some significant developments and achievements over the last 12 months which will contribute towards Reading Climate Emergency Strategy objectives. Some of these have arisen through local action, some have arisen directly or indirectly from the pandemic, and some have been taken forward despite the constraints of the pandemic. The examples below demonstrate progress across the span of activity covered by the action plans within the Strategy:

Energy: the Reading Hydro scheme was completed in August 2021, generating renewable electricity by harnessing the power of the Thames at Caversham Weir via two Archimedes screw turbines. The project, delivery of which was funded by £1.2m raised from public share issues, was driven forward by the volunteer-led Reading Hydro Community Benefit Society. The scheme will provide an estimated 320 megawatt hours of electricity per annum, and will save an estimated 5,600 tonnes of CO2 over the 40 year design life of the project. The project became operational in September 2021, and the income from Figure 1: the new Reading Hydro turbines selling electricity will be used to operate and maintain the scheme, pay a modest return to shareholders and gradually repay their investment. After this, any surplus will be paid to a community benefit fund, to support local sustainability projects. At a broader scale, Reading has also secured over £5 million in Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding to date (£3.4 by the University of Reading, and £1.7m by Reading Borough Council) to reduce emissions from public buildings.

Low carbon housing: Reading Borough Council continued with its long-standing programme of energy efficiency investment in its housing stock, which makes up around 10% of all housing in the Borough. As a result, the Council’s housing has an average Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) energy efficiency rating of 74 - better than the national averages of 65 for all housing, and 69 for social housing. This equates to EPC band ‘C’ compared to the national average of band ‘D’. In 2021 the Council installed 40 air source heat pumps providing low carbon heating to residents living in Granville Road, driving investment in the low carbon supply chain. New Council housing is being built using passivhaus principles, exemplified by the Wensley Road development in Coley which achieves space heating consumption of less than 15 kWh/m2, space heating and hot water via air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and solar PV panels.

Figure 2: Reading is second only to Brighton & Hove for bus passenger journeys per head Transport: while the early lockdowns arising from the pandemic artificially suppressed both private traffic volumes and public transport use, many people turned to cycling and walking to get around. Mode share data suggests cycling accounted for 4.3% of all journeys in 2019 and that this increased to 6.7% in 2020. Ridership on public transport was inevitably suppressed during the lockdowns as people were discouraged from using public transport – bus use fell from 26.6% of all journeys in 2019 to 21% in 2020 and rail use from 19.3% to 12.3% over the same period. That said, pre-pandemic, Reading’s high quality bus services consistently enabled it to buck national trends in declining bus use. And according to Government statistics on bus use ending March 2020 (the latest full year for which data is available), Reading was second only to Brighton & Hove in terms of bus passenger journeys per head of population for each local authority area in England (137 journeys per head) . As of September 2021, bus ridership had recovered to 66% of the 2019 level for the same period – though this was still significantly below pre-pandemic levels.

Figure 3: Landsdowne Road wildflowers following 're-wilding' trials Nature: Reading Borough Council adopted a new Trees Strategy in March 2021, committing to the planting of 3,000 new trees by 2030 and an increase in canopy cover across the Borough to 25% (from the current average of 18%). Not only will this significant expansion in tree planting absorb carbon, but it will also help the town adapt to the impacts of a warming climate by countering the urban ‘heat island’ effect, improving the resilience of urban wildlife, and helping reduce the risk of localised flooding. With the support of local community groups, the Council also extended its successful trials to ‘re-wild’ some highway verges and other areas of greenspace, reducing the mowing regime and cutting at the optimal times to benefit grassland biodiversity.

Water: action to address flood risk was taken forward with completion of the first cycle of the Flood Risk Management Plan (2015-21). Under this process, Reading Borough Council, which has responsibility for surface water flooding, identified 6 flood risk ‘hotspots’, 5 of which have now been the subject of works to mitigate flood risk, with funding recently secured for the 6th (Stone Street). At the same time, the Environment Agency, which has responsibility for fluvial (river) flooding, has progressed proposals to address the main flood risk facing Reading from the Thames. Thames Water also stepped up efforts to promote the efficient use of water which will be necessary to mitigate pressure on water resources as climate impacts are felt and growth in the town increases the underlying demand for water.

Figure 4: Reading Borough Council’s first EV refuse truck arrived in September 2021 – powered by electricity generated from food waste Waste: the introduction of food waste collection by Reading Borough Council, and enthusiastic uptake of the scheme by residents, drove an increase in Reading’s recycling rate from 32% in April 2020 to 52% in April 2021. This represents a significant reduction in waste going to landfill and a corresponding reduction in emissions of methane, one of the most potent greenhouse gases. The food waste collected is transported to an anaerobic digestor where it generates electricity to feed into the national grid, contributing to the development of the ‘circular economy’ in the region and helping to power the Council’s growing fleet of EVs, including Reading’s first all electric refuse truck which hit the streets in September 2021.

Health & wellbeing: one of the unintended consequences of the pandemic and associated restrictions was to encourage people to visit their local greenspaces and Reading was no exception and there were significant increases in parks visitation compared to the pre-pandemic level. This has enabled more people to connect with nature and the outdoors, with benefits for their physical and mental health.

Figure 5: the new Reading Climate Action Network website launched November 2020 Communications and engagement: the new Reading Climate Action Network website was launched in November 2020 alongside the inaugural Reading Climate Festival, a week-long series of events held in November 2020 to engage residents in the climate debate. This was a great success, with 43 events organised by 23 different organisations, and attended by an estimated 1,550 participants. At the same time the University of Reading held its Green Festival to engage students and staff in climate action. The Reading Climate Festival was held again in 2021, with the dates brought forward to September to coincide with Great Big Green Week. This year’s festival was similarly successful with a mix of 32 virtual and physical events attracting an estimated 550 participants. Events have been recorded and are available for anyone to watch on a ‘catch-up’ basis so they continue to reach beyond the immediate attendance at the live events. The University also held its Climate Education Summit on 15 September 2021, a virtual event to better promote climate education in schools and colleges.

While these examples of progress are to be welcomed, there is certainly no room for complacency: we know that the rate of emissions reduction needs to increase considerably to meet net zero by 2030 aspirations, and, as is being seen globally, if left unchecked, it is clear that emissions are capable of ‘bouncing back’ to pre-pandemic levels as the temporary impact of restrictions and behaviour changes over the last 18 months lessens.

PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN DELIVERY

3.1	Overview

In terms of the action plans around which the Strategy is based, we have reviewed each Action Plan in preparation for this Annual Report and ‘RAG’-rated the status of each action based on the following definitions:

RED – not yet started/no longer relevant

AMBER – started but not in line with target dates/outcomes

GREEN – complete/underway and on target

Looking across almost 150 actions within the Action Plans, approximately 30% have been rated ‘Green’, 50% ‘Amber’ and 20% ‘Red’. Care should be taken with this analysis as some actions will inevitably be more significant than others in terms of the contribution they make to Strategy objectives. What this analysis illustrates, however, is that:

significant progress has been made in the first year of strategy delivery, despite the inevitable disruption to many planned actions caused by the pandemic;

many partner organisations, particularly but not exclusively those dependent on voluntary effort, lack the capacity to deliver climate action that they would like or that will be necessary to increase the pace and impact of delivery. This is a shared challenge for many partners and areas, and not unique to Reading.

Annex 1 contains a detailed description of progress with the action plans on which the strategy is based.

SUMMARY & CONCLUSIONS

It is clear from this Annual Report that much has been achieved – the reduction in Reading’s emissions between 2005 and 2019 (the latest year for which data is available) of 49% is the 5th highest reduction of any 379 local authority areas according to the UK Government dataset which records ‘carbon dioxide emissions within the scope of influence of the local authority’.

However, it remains equally clear that there is much more to do – the current rate of emissions reduction needs to approximately double to bring the net zero by 2030 target within reach. Moreover, we know that the official statistics on which our targets are based, which measure ‘territorial’ or ‘production’ emissions do not take account of emissions arising from consumption. This latter calculation adds a significant proportion to Reading’s carbon footprint’ due to our reliance on imported food and other products.

As we said in the Strategy document, we did not envisage progress towards the aspiration of a ‘net zero Reading by 2030’ to take the form of a straight-line reduction in emissions, and it was always likely that the pace of emissions reduction would need to accelerate as the decade progressed. The data appear to confirm that the challenge will increase as the decade advances – but also show that we are making good progress which should build confidence in our ability to tackle the huge challenge which the achievement of ‘net zero’ represents.

Climate-related weather events around the globe illustrate the equally pressing need to adapt to future climate impacts – the UK is relatively less exposed and relatively more resilient to these compared to other parts of the world, but the risks will inevitably increase over time in terms of both likelihood and impact. It will therefore be incumbent on all partners to develop their adaptation strategies alongside plans to reduce their emissions in the coming months and years.

ANNEX 1: CLIMATE EMERGENCY STRATEGY ACTION PLAN UPDATES THEME: Energy and Low Carbon Development
SUMMARY OF PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
A number of areas have advanced to help establish a foundation for a zero carbon Reading but major challenges remain. Some major development sites have come forward under the zero carbon homes policy and/or BREEAM excellent standard. The Council has built its own new build housing following passivhaus principles and utilising renewable energy and heat pumps. Progress has been slow on developing the next phase of feasibility for a town centre district energy network but a consultant has now been commissioned to develop this. In the meantime, developments are coming forwards with district heating (mainly using air source heat pumps). Renewable energy projects are moving forwards although though not yet at scale. The Reading Hydro scheme was recently commissioned after seven years of planning and development and now feeds electricity to the Reading Lido. Further solar panel projects are being planned and taken forward by the Council, University of Reading and Reading Community Energy Society. A housing retrofit programme has begun in Reading and the Council have agreed to produce a strategy to ramp this up. Funding has been secured under the Green Homes Grant but early problems with the scheme have led to limited uptake. A redesigned scheme is being implemented and applications for future rounds of funding have been made. The Council have installed 40 air source heat pump systems in a block of flats and carried out whole house retrofit of 12 homes in the Council stock. SSEN have been developing their new business plan for 2024 to 2028 and are in discussions with the partnership about engagement with Reading specific projects and investments. The Council have invested in their depot site to electrify operations with electrification of vehicle fleets and heat supply. EV Charging facilities and additional renewable energy generation are being installed. The first electric refuse collection has been delivered*. A research project is taking place funded by ADEPT and working with the under the Live Labs programme to look at the interface between electrically powered buildings, vehicles and renewable energy. The overall level of delivery for Energy and Low Carbon Development is Amber/Green *scheduled 10th Sept.
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
A number of new funding streams and policies have been launched, including the Green Homes Grant (with the public largest part of the scheme being withdrawn in 2020, although a new scheme will be in place from April 2022 to support replacement of gas boilers with heat pumps), the road to Zero target being brought forward to 2030 and the launch of the Clean Heat Grant and Heat Networks Delivery Fund. Additionally, the last year has seen consultation on the Building Regulations and we await the introduction of the newer Regulations, known as the Future Homes Standard. The headline targets are lower than the current Reading planning policy but there are a number of key changes including the carbon intensity of heat and the introduction of the SAP10 assessment process as well as new ‘fabric efficiency targets’.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
The district network operator (the local electricity grid) is SSEN which is in the process of developing its 2024-28 plan for southern England (known as RIIO ED2). Reading Borough Council is in discussion with SSEN to help ensure that the network is gearing up for ambitious decarbonisation plans for heating and transport to ensure that the increase in electricity demand which is anticipated can be accommodated. Covid has inevitably had some impact on action plan delivery with impacts on staff in a range of partners organisations and disruption to projects and programmes. Energy consumption patterns have, however, changed as a result of the pandemic with many commuters now working from home. Reductions in emissions from large office buildings will likely be offset by a corresponding increase in domestic emissions, but there should be reductions in transport emissions resulting in a net reduction overall. Some studies are being conducted to assess the new business configuration and its impact going forwards.

Energy and Low Carbon Development Action Plan: our aim is that by 2025 Reading is taking urgent action to decarbonise its energy networks, increase energy efficiency and create renewable energy capacity. It has concrete plans to achieve sufficient demand reduction to enable its annual energy needs to be 100% covered by its renewable generation, taking account of the increased load from transport and heat becoming electrically powered.

NB Some of the actions included in the action plans below, and the scale and pace at which they can be progressed, will be subject to the prevailing national policy context and/or the provision of additional powers and resources by central government, as made clear in Reading’s climate emergency declaration (see section 3.2 above).

Sub category: Low Carbon Development

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	RAG Status	Commentary (100 word max)
E1: an Energy Master Plan for Reading	Develop an Energy Master Plan for Reading	Develop stakeholder group Establish evidence base and technology pathway Develop cross sector implementation plan	Q4 2020 Q2 2021 Q2 2021	Scottish and Southern Energy (District Network Operator) SGN (Southern Gas Networks) Ovo Energy Octopus Energy Local renewable energy suppliers. Spirit Solar Reading Energy Strategy forum	AMBER	RBC has worked with SSEN on providing evidence base to help inform the RIIO ED2 plan to 2028. Further development required.
E2: Energy Efficiency in New development	Introduce high standards of energy efficiency for new development Large commercial to BREEAM ‘excellent’ standard with best methods employed Larger housing developments built to zero carbon standards Ensure standards post construction with best methods employed Build new council housing to the highest standards Net zero carbon and exceeding 50% reduction on building regulations Consider the embodied energy in building materials in publicly commissioned projects	% achieving standard Schemes supported though offset	Ongoing AMBER	Reading BC	GREEN	Large commercial builds meeting BREEAM excellent at planning stage. Zero Carbon homes being applied to large development. Discussions about fund contributions underway.
E3: Energy Reduction through Retrofit Programme	Establish a housing retrofit programme in Reading which is compelling for property owners: Apply for funding Compile high quality information on stock and energy efficiency levels of local housing Identify partners Zero carbon offset Investigate green/community bonds and other finance innovation Commercial retrofit scheme	Apply MHCLG Local Authority Delivery funding Sept to Dec 20 Stock condition survey Oct 20 Supply chain development work TBC Collect Section 106 funds for zero carbon development Work with LEP and Reading UK to establish companies to pilot – scheme TBC	2020/21	Reading BC and developers and/or retrofit companies	AMBER	Green Homes Grant funding secured but some challenges encountered with meeting eligibility criteria in first phase. Funding applied for for future phases.
E4: Retrofit Design	Establish standards for climate-conscious retrofit (not exhaustive): Develop standards for different property types Heritage sympathetic schemes Consider damp and ventilation Design for climate risks Heat recovery ventilation Underfloor heating Consider embodied energy in construction Introduce water saving especially hot water Develop public communication and resources for retrofit. Links: Water, Business	Identify pilot projects which target specific solutions for different building types locally	2020 to 2022	Reading BC, English Heritage SECBE, University or Reading	GREEN	Whole house retrofit carried out on council homes with MVHR. Embodied energy in construction has been considered for some transport schemes. Design for climate risks through SPD.
E5: Behaviours that save energy in homes and businesses and schools	Develop approaches to reduce energy consumption in homes, businesses and schools Create information resources Develop targeted behaviour-change campaign Links: Community, Business, schools	Publish resources Targeted campaign	2020/21 2021/2022	National/local agencies and organisations materials and resources Reading BC, RCCP Brighter Futures	GREEN	Various resources on website. Some new technologies being installed in housing and monitored.
E6: Best in class buildings	Develop high standard projects in different sectors, to reduce emissions Link: Business	Publish reports on buildings	Q2 2021	Housing providers	AMBER	Local Authority new build housing is built to high standard.
E7: Reducing fuel poverty	Continue to provide Winter Watch service Support new schemes targeting retrofitting for those most in need Build referral mechanisms for those suffering from poor health and/or fuel poverty. Links: Community, Health	Reading Housing Strategy Design new approaches Establish cross-referral programme	2020/21 2020/22 Ongoing	Reading BC, other agencies (Health Citizen advice etc)	GREEN	Winter watch continuing but now linked to green homes grant.
E8: Leadership and Influence	Consider legal options for establishing standards that go higher than regulations Buy sustainable LCGES (Low Carbon Goods and Environmental Services) from local suppliers to build supply chains where rules allow. Use social value KPIs Develop in-house skills for retrofit of Council housing	Consider trials nationally Project to work with public and private sector to build local supply chain	Q3 2020 2021 – 2023	Reading BC Reading UK TVB – (Berkshire) LEP	GREEN	Local Authorities able to apply their own standards under Future Home Standard. RBC standards are higher than new building regulations so will continue to apply.
E9: Reading Borough Council Carbon Plan 2020 to 2025	Reading Borough Council to set out plan to achieve emissions reductions and renewable energy generation targets.	Published plan to 2025 and meet its milestones	Q4 2020	Reading BC	GREEN	Plan published and on track
E10: Publish new housing strategy to incorporate energy retrofit	New strategy to include C-rating and where possible B rating for all Council and rental accommodation in borough by 2030 Link: Business	i) New housing strategy ii) Implementation	2020/21 2021 onwards	Reading BC	AMBER	New retrofit strategy being developed. Awaiting review of EPC system.

Sub category: Renewable Energy - Heat

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
E11: Renewable Heat – Ground Source	Work with developers to maximise district energy solutions in line with Local Plan policies on decentralised energy: Establish District Heating Investigate the potential of rivers, ground and aquifers in Reading for renewable heat Implement heat pump schemes Develop skills of local installers	Complete studies Implement scheme	Q2 2020 Q2 2022 (dependant on developers)	Reading BC /BEIS University	AMBER	Work behind schedule but study now commissioned and feasibility for key Reading sites underway. Developments are coming forward with district energy schemes incorporated/ready.
E12: Renewable Heat Air Source	Consider different types of heat pumps and develop skills of local installers Link: Business	Report on Air Source Heat Pumps Identify installers Conduct trials	Q3 2020 Q3 2020 Q2 2021	Reading BC	AMBER	1 tower block and 1 commercial building have had heat pumps installed. New Heat Decarbonisation Heat plan being developed for Council and Schools.
E13: Renewable Heat Anaerobic Digestion	Anaerobic digestion for food waste streams Consider biogas generation for buses and inject to grid Links: Resources, Transport	Report informing waste strategy	Q2 2021	University of Reading	GREEN	Council food waste taken to Oxon AD facility. Buses use natural gas, but biogas being injected from AD in certified scheme.
E14: Hydrogen	Investigate renewably sourced hydrogen fuel cell technology in particular for use in Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCVs) Links: Business, Transport Investigate hydrogen injection to gas network	Identify schemes/trials Discussions with SGN	DATE TBC	Reading BC Reading UK Reading Transport SGN	RED	No Progress

Sub category: Renewable Energy – Electricity

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
E15: Solar PV (commercial)	Establish large commercial roof-based schemes that service base loads in large commercial buildings Link: Business	Establish scheme Achieve high proportion of suitable roofs	2020/22 2025	UoR, Reading UK & Reading BC, TVBLEP/Reading UK, SE Energy hub	AMBER	New roof spaces under consideration with RCES, but more comprehensive survey needed
E16: Solar PV (domestic)	Establish phase 1 of domestic scheme using bulk purchase to reduce price	Develop scheme Scheme up and running	2020 2022	RCCP, Tenants groups, local companies	AMBER	Schemes under consideration Absolar & Solar together (reverse auction)
E17: Solar PV (Public buildings including schools)	Install solar panels onto further schools roofs	Added capacity to existing	2022	RBC and Schools RCES	GREEN	Funding received for £560k worth of solar panels on schools and other buildings.
E18: Renewable Energy – hydro	To bring forward Hydro-electric power schemes powered by Reading’s rivers To publicise sustainable energy through educational programme. Link: Water	Planning approval secured already, investment and commence scheme Launch educational programme, tours etc	2020/21 2022	Reading Hydro	GREEN	Reading Hydro complete Sept 2021
E19: Investment in Renewable Energy at Regional level	Consider investment in land and sites in and outside of Reading that have potential to supply renewable electricity to Reading Investigate suitable land with (potential) planning and connections for renewable energy generation	Initial report by	Q2 2021	Reading BC	GREEN	Solar farm opportunity under investigation

Sub category: Electric Powered Transport - see also Transport Theme Action Plan

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
E20: Energy strategy for Bus Depot and surrounding area	Establish potential for solar – depot, car park canopies, Civitas School Investigate Riding Sunbeams option for direct connection to railway network	Report	2020/21	RBC, Reading Community Energy Society	AMBER	RCES has commissioned study on bus depot and awaiting clearance from Network Rail for a scheme in order to obtain planning.

Sub category: Electricity Storage, Management and Metering – Smart Cities Solutions

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
E21: Battery Storage	Grid side battery storage by Local Energy company (District Network Operator) Behind meter storage on domestic and commercial sites Specialist large scale storage facilities third party	Establish energy strategy group Develop energy strategy draft	2020 Q2 2021	SSE Public Sector Private sector	AMBER	SSE recently built 50MW battery in Salisbury. No Reading sites identified currently. Storage projects not proving viable currently. RBC sites under consideration.
E22: Smart Meters	Roll out of smart meters in households Identify ’Internet of Things’ solutions linked to smart meters Explore linkages to ‘time of use’ tariffs (different rates for different times of day) linked to IoT devices and ‘vehicle to grid’ (vehicles powering buildings). Establish trials with vehicles/buildings and local network Links: Business, Transport	Energy company schedules/targets	2020 to 2024	Energy Companies RCCP University of Reading Smart Grid Solutions Joju	AMBER	Smart Meter roll out being delayed – new date for UK roll out 2025. RBC Bennet Road project underway. ADEPT funded project concluding autumn but limited monitoring due to IT problems.
E23: Internet of Things projects	Introduction of in-building solutions for projects that use the cloud and smart response approaches including machine learning to optimise energy flows	Smart Cities projects	2020 to 2022	Reading BC, University of Reading	GREEN	First phase of project complete and next phase underway.
E24: Heat storage	Investigate the potential of natural and engineering based heat storage systems in urban context for stabilising heat supply and balancing summer storage and winter loads	Set up Energy Working group	TBC	TBC	RED	No progress.
E25: Carbon intensity research	Work with University and or third parties to develop accurate real time assessment of carbon intensity of electricity and optimise energy flows to minimise carbon emissions	Set up Energy Working Group	TBC	Reading BC, University of Reading	AMBER	University work to flow out of ADEPT project

THEME: TRANSPORT
PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Prior to the pandemic bus use continued to climb in Reading with 137.5 passenger journeys made on local bus services per head of population in 2019/20 which is almost twice the average for England and the second highest number in England (after Brighton & Hove). Park and Ride use was also increasing prior to the pandemic at both Mereoak and Winnersh. Construction of the new Park & Ride at Thames Valley was complete but services are yet to commence. Works have begun at Winnersh Park & Ride to provide additional capacity. Work continues on the construction of Green Park Station and has now commenced at Reading West station for its redevelopment works. The adoption of Reading’s fourth Local Transport Plan and associated development of Demand Management Measures has been placed on hold whilst the outcome of the pandemic on changing patterns of demand for travel is better understood.
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
Due to the impact of the covid-19 pandemic and the government response a number of new ‘emergency’ funding streams were created to enable local authorities to respond to the impact of the pandemic. This has included promotion of active travel schemes with Active Travel Tranche’s 1,2 and 3, the Travel Demand Management (TDM) Fund and the Capability Fund. These funds have allowed the Council to develop and implement schemes promoting active and sustainable travel as a time when use of public transport was discouraged. Emergency funding has also been awarded to enable a ‘closed-door’ school bus services and for the continuation of bus services at pre-pandemic levels which would otherwise have been cut.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
The response to the pandemic has changed travel behaviour with less trips being made as people work from home and, for those who do need to travel, fewer trips are being made by public transport following government guidance. Public transport mode share in this area has therefore reduced significantly. However, the pandemic has also seen an uplift in active travel (walking and cycling) and additional funding allocated to this area. The long-term impact on travel behaviour is uncertain and the Council may need to re-calibrate the targets set in the Climate Emergency Strategy as it also intends to do so for its Local Transport Plan 4.

Transport Theme Action Plan: Our aim is for a low carbon future for transport in which emissions are cut by reducing the need to travel by more polluting modes of transport, shifting more journeys to sustainable modes of transport and supporting the transition from petrol/diesel to electric vehicles. In the process, we will improve health and wellbeing, while making transport infrastructure more resilient to climate impacts.

NB Some of the actions included in the action plans below, and the scale and pace at which they can be progressed, will be subject to the prevailing national policy context and/or the provision of additional powers and resources by central government, as made clear in Reading’s climate emergency declaration (see section 3.2 above).

Sub-category: Reducing need and demand for travel, promoting walking and cycling

Action name	Description	Target & measure/ milestone (NB numerical targets subject to confirmation in final Local Transport Plan still in development at time of publication)	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
T1: Reduce the need to travel through well planned development	Ensure that services, leisure facilities and employment opportunities are located close to where people live and/or in locations easy to access by sustainable transport services via planning policy and decisions Links: Business, Community, Health, Energy and LCD	Reduction in transport-related emissions across Reading Implementation of Reading Local Plan policies	2025	Reading BC Developers	GREEN	Local Plan adopted 2019 and policies being implemented
T2: Develop demand management measures to reduce traffic and encourage shift from high carbon transport	Consider introduction of individual or combined policies via the forthcoming Local Transport Plan such as: Workplace Parking Levy Clean Air Zone Alternative demand management measures Links: Business, Community, Health	Initiate consultation Develop business case for preferred option(s) Implement preferred measure(s)	Q2 2020 2021 2022-23	Reading BC Local Businesses Neighbouring Authorities Department for Transport Reading BID	AMBER	Development of specific Demand Management Measures currently paused pending adoption of LTP 4
T3: Enhance provision for Pedestrians & cyclists to encourage low carbon travel choices	Provide space for walking and cycling improvements, including segregation and road reallocation (where feasible), surface improvements, crossing priority, safety improvements and increased cycle parking hubs/facilities as set out in Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan Links: Health	Increase proportion of adults who walk at least 3 times per week from 30.8% (2019) to 40% by 2025 (en route to a 60% target by 2036) Increase proportion of adults who cycle at least 3 times per week from 5.1% (2019) to 9% by 2025 (en route to a 15% target by 2036)	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Local User Groups Thames Valley Police	GREEN	Delivery of Active Travel Schemes tranche 1 complete and tranche 2 in development. Application submitted for tranche 3
T4: Enhance Town Centre and Local Centre Public Space to improve air quality and reduce carbon use	Improve the pedestrian experience in Central Reading and local centres by providing better access to key destinations for walking, cycling and bus passengers Green up the local environment to encourage use and enjoyment of local facilities Links: Business, Community, Health	Increase active travel mode share of trips to/from Reading town centre from 32% (2017-2019 avg) to 34% by 2025 (en route to a 38% target by 2036) Increase public transport trips to/from Reading town centre from 44.5% mode share (2017-2019 avg) to 45.5% mode share per day by 2025 (en route to a 48% target by 2036) Decrease car trips mode share to/from Reading town centre from 23.5% (2017-2019 avg) to 20.3% mode share by 2025 per day (en route to a 14% target by 2036)	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Transport Operators Reading BID Local User Groups Developers Businesses Residents	GREEN	Reading Town Centre Strategy - consultants commissioned and currently working with stakeholders
T5: Promote Sustainable Travel to School and other education sites to encourage low carbon travel choices	Establish dedicated and safe walking and cycling routes for each school. Reduce the danger and pollution from ‘the school run’ Roll-out Play Streets/School Streets programme - supporting local communities and schools who want to organise street closures	Increased shift from private car use to active travel Improved health and fitness of schoolchildren Improved air quality Trial school street closures at selected schools before a wider roll-out across the borough	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC School Communities Bikeability Provider TV Police Local User Groups Residents Uni of Reading	GREEN	Delivery of a number of schemes including School Streets (x3) and promotion of Walk to School Week through Travel Demand Management fund. Further schemes to be delivered through the Capability Fund

Sub-category: Encouraging a switch to public transport

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones (NB numerical targets subject to confirmation in final Local Transport Plan still in development at time of publication)	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
T6: Improve major and radial routes to promote switch to sustainable modes of travel	Improve the transport options on main corridors and radial routes including A4, A33, A327, A329, A4074, A4155 and the Inner Distribution Road. Make space to encourage changes in travel choice to low/zero carbon modes. Links: Business, Community, Education	As per T3 and T4	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Neighbouring LAs TVB LEP Transport Operators Local User Groups Residents Businesses	GREEN	As per T3 and T4
T7: Improve Quality Bus Corridors	Improve branded local routes with faster, more reliable and more frequent services, changing people’s travel habits away from dependency on cars especially for commuter and school journeys Links: Business, Community, Education	Increase bus journeys per year by 9% from 22.5M (2019) to 24.6M (en route to a target increase of 25% by 2036)	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Transport Operators Businesses Residents Schools Health Services Department for Transport/UK Gov	AMBER	Schemes relating to bus services (T7, T8 and T9) to be incorporated within Reading’s Bus Service Improvement Plan currently in production
T8: Establish Fast-Track Public Transport Corridors	Improve speed and reliability of key public transport routes through establishment of key Fast-Track Public Transport (FTPT) corridors on strategic routes (including south, west, east and north).	As per T7	2025	Reading BC Wokingham BC West Berkshire BC Oxfordshire CC Transport Operators	AMBER	As per T7
T9: Extend Park and Ride provision to encourage car users to change onto low carbon alternatives to access Reading	Provision of new and expanded Park & Rides to intercept traffic on main corridors into Reading. Links: Business	Increased use of P&R trips to/from Reading by 25% compared to 2019 levels New P&R at Thames Valley Park opened Winnersh Triangle P&R expanded New P&R sites identified	2025 2020 2021 2025	Reading BC Transport Operators Royal Berks Hospital Businesses Wokingham BC Thames Valley Park W Berks BC Oxfordshire CC TVB LEP Businesses	AMBER	As per T7
T10: Deliver Railway Station upgrades to encourage car users to use low carbon alternatives to and from Reading	Improved access to railway stations at Reading, Reading West and Tilehurst by walking, cycling and public transport. Improved customer experience (including fully accessible platforms), interchange and public space enhancements, including new and improved cycle parking hubs and facilities	Increase public transport trips to/from Reading town centre from 44.5% mode share (2017-2019 avg) to 45.5% mode share per day by 2025 (en route to a 48% target by 2036)	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Network Rail Great Western Railway TVB LEP	GREEN	Upgrade works commenced at Reading West Station and due for completion summer 2022. Future works still planned at Tilehurst and central Reading
T11: Open Reading Green Park Railway Station	Provide new station for access to Green Park and South Reading and interchange with integrated bus services Links: Business	New station completed and served by GWR services. Interchange open with provision of integrated bus services.	2021	Reading BC Network Rail Great Western Railway Transport Operators TVB LEP DfT Businesses	AMBER	Reading Green Park Station construction continuing and schedule completion by end of 2021 but commencement of services not likely until May 2022
T12: Implement traffic management schemes to support low carbon travel choices	Provide effective management of the existing network to meet changing mobility demands of Reading Provide safe roads and pavements including crossings and reduce crossing conflicts and interruptions to the flow of walking and cycling	As per T4	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Transport Operators Emergency Services	GREEN

Sub-category: Reducing emissions from the vehicle fleet and using new technology

Action name	Description	Target & measure/ milestone (NB numerical targets subject to confirmation in final Local Transport Plan still in development at time of publication)	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
T13: Develop a zero emission vehicle strategy for the Borough	Study suitable locations Identify potential network constraints Assess potential demand	Strategy development to follow Local Transport Plan	2020/21	Reading BC	AMBER	Draft Electric Vehicle / Zero Emission strategy with officers for further work prior to consulting with members
T14: Decarbonise the Council Vehicle Fleet	Increase electric charging points at Council buildings Consider phased replacement of Council vehicles with electric powered units wherever possible Charging points to be installed at depot that can allow vehicles to power buildings Carbon Plan will set targets for reduction in diesel/petrol	RBC Carbon Plan Feasibility report, Business case, Budget approval * (subject to above)	Q4 2020 2022-2024	Reading BC	GREEN	New charging points installed at Bennet Road and delivery of first EV Refuse Collection Vehicle September 2021
T15: Increase Public Electric Vehicle Charging Points	Install electric charging points in Council car parks Leisure centres Lamp columns (trials) Business premises Taxi ranks Links: Business, Transport	First car park project All suitable car parks First leisure centre All leisure centres	2020/21 2023 2020/21 2022	Reading BC, Reading UK, Taxi Assoc, Leisure provider	GREEN	Linked to adoption of Reading’s EV/Zero Emission Strategy (ref T13)
T16: Increase zero emissions vehicles uptake	Work with vehicle sales outlets in Reading to increase zero emission vehicle uptake Links: Business	Zero emission vehicle uptake compared to national benchmarks	Ongoing	Reading UK RCAN	AMBER	Linked to adoption of Reading’s EV/Zero Emission Strategy (ref T13)
T17: Establish and promote eBikes	Identify charging locations for electrically assisted pedal cycles and investigate potential for e-bike hire scheme.	Develop strategy for location	TBC	Reading BC Site owners	AMBER	This action will be linked to the decision on the outcome of the future of Reading’s cycle hire scheme.
T18: Planning policy for EV charging in new properties	Monitor number of additional charging units installed in new properties Links: Business	Monitor additional units in line with planning policy	Ongoing	Reading BC Developers	GREEN
T19: Reduce emissions from the Taxi Fleet	Require all taxis and private hire vehicles to be electric or hybrid by 2030	Improved Air quality, reduced carbon emissions	Beyond 2025	Reading BC Taxi and Private Hire Associations	AMBER	Current taxi emissions policy on hold due to pandemic.
T19A Reduce emissions and improve efficiency of freight movements	Work with the freight operators and businesses to encourage use of cleaner vehicle technology, consolidate deliveries, encourage ‘out of hours’ deliveries during quieter times and trial e-cargo bikes and freight consolidation parks where feasible.	Improved Air quality, reduced carbon emissions and reduced congestion	Beyond 2025	Reading BC Road Haulage Association Logistics UK Freight operators and local businesses	AMBER
T20: Improve Electric Vehicle Charging infrastructure	Develop and implement policy for appropriate provision of electric vehicle charging points across the borough	Provision of EV charging installed as per the policy to accommodate anticipated increases in demand	2022	Reading BC Transport Operators Third Party Landowners	GREEN	Linked to adoption of Reading’s EV/Zero Emission Strategy (ref T13)
T21: Deploy Intelligent Transport Systems to encourage change to low carbon transport	Use technology and real-time data to improve safety, efficiency environmental performance and journey experience of users of the transport system, particularly at signal-controlled junctions	As per T4	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Transport Operators	AMBER
T22: Embrace Smart Solutions to reduce use of carbon in transport	Smarter Working – maximise benefits of flexible working patterns Smart City Initiatives - Use different types of electronic Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to collect data and then use insights gained to manage assets, resources and services efficiently. Implement Micromobility and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) schemes as they evolve Links: Business	Decrease car trips mode share to/from Reading town centre from 23.5% (2017-2019 avg) to 20.3% mode share by 2025 per day (en route to a 14% target by 2036 Reduced need for car ownership across the borough	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Employers Transport Operators Emergency Services Highways England Motoring Organisations Reading BC DfT Car Clubs	AMBER	Impact of pandemic has resulted in higher rates of home working and less need to travel but a greater mode share by private vehicle as public transport use has been discouraged

Sub-category: Adaptation, Communication & Engagement

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones (NB numerical targets subject to confirmation in final Local Transport Plan still in development at time of publication)	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
T23a (General): Develop education, initiatives, promotion and advice to encourage low carbon travel choices	Undertake marketing activities promoting sustainable transport Enable access to any adults who want to undertake Bikeability training. Provide courses through schools as well as to individuals and to groups. Provide up-to-date travel information to enable informed travel choices Develop programme of training, education and initiatives to promote sustainable transport usage Links: Education, Health	As per T4	2025 as part of the Local Transport Plan targets through to 2036	Reading BC Stakeholders Reading BC School Communities Bikeability Provider Thames Valley Police Local User Groups Residents	GREEN	Delivered through a combination of both the Travel Demand Management Fund (due to end October 2021) and Capability Fund (issued September 2021)
T23b (Schools): Develop education, initiatives, promotion and advice to encourage low carbon travel choices in school	Roll-out Mode-shift STARS accreditation scheme to all schools in Reading Implement School Streets Enable access to anybody who want to undertake Bikeability training. Links: Education, Health	Achieve 50% of all schools accredited to at least Bronze by 2025. Improvements to air quality and road safety as well as encouraging healthier lifestyles.	2025	Reading BC School Communities	GREEN	Delivered through a combination of both the Travel Demand Management Fund (due to end Oct 21) and Capability Fund (issued September 2021)
T24: Research and plan for Carbon Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation	Participate in research programmes investigating the carbon footprint related to transport and the air quality impact of transport Design climate adaptation into the planning and operation of transport network to improve resilience to climate change impacts Links: Adaptation	Research completed and recommendations made Climate Change Adaptation key consideration in planning of all schemes	2022 2025 and beyond	Reading BC Transport operators University of Reading DfT Other Stakeholders	GREEN

THEME: Resources and Consumption
PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Significant examples of progress over the last year include the following: RBC/re3 domestic food waste collections were launched in Reading at the start of the year. Current levels of capture are 40 – 45% above pre-commencement expectations and have boosted Reading’s recycling rate from 32% in April 2020 to 52% in April 2021. Reading UK CIC is working with Central and Abbey Quarter BID members to develop a Green BID framework that aligns with the goals of Reading Climate Emergency Strategy and helps BID members to access the support they need to get to net zero, individually and collectively as a BID. Plastic Free Caversham continues to make good progress towards achieving their goal of Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) Plastic Free Community accreditation. The group’s campaign to raise funds for a public drinking water fountain in Caversham is going well. Circular Economy Club Reading team are keen to identify and develop opportunities to engage with practical challenges. The team offered another ‘Circular at home’ challenge during Reading Climate Festival, linking the challenge to some of the collected circular economy resources and recorded conversations. Looking ahead, food is likely to be a major focus of the next year around 50% of the theme’s action relate in some way to food and there are a number of initiatives underway in Reading.
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
New ‘right to repair’ regulations came into effect in July and there have been a series of national consultations on the Waste Prevention Programme, the Waste Management Plan for England, deposit return schemes for drinks containers and extended producer responsibility for packaging. Action on these issues is expected to be taken forward in the Environment Bill when it becomes an Act later this year. The National Food Strategy (the Dimbleby report) was also published within the last year, making recommendations to government about a healthier, more affordable and sustainable food system.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
The pandemic has impacted a number of patterns of behaviour and consumption and at this point it is difficult to predict which changes will sustain. There will, however, be opportunities to ‘lock-in’ positive changes through policy changes. Locally, a significant policy change has been to retain the Recycling Centre booking system. It initially allowed the re3 partnership to reopen without the sort of public order issues experienced elsewhere and quickly became clear that conditions created by the booking system were also appreciated by residents. With recycling rates of over 70% at the Recycling Centres, and fewer visits due to more efficient use of trips, re3 are cautiously confident that the sites are making a smaller environmental impact than pre-pandemic. There is some evidence of a growth in support for local sourcing – a combination of habits gained during lockdown but also goodwill to local traders that did right for their community. Possibly running counter to this is the general increase in online retail and deliveries, which has in many respect favoured larger corporates. There has also been a proliferation of apps to facilitate and incentivise eco choices, and a resurgence of media coverage of the climate and biodiversity crisis, issues like plastic pollution, fast fashion, healthy diets and sustainable food systems. There are also requirement in some public recovery funding for recipients to identify ways in which they will contribute to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions to meet national targets (e.g. Culture Recovery Fund).

Resources Theme Action Plan: our aim for 2025 is that Reading is on track to become a zero waste town by 2030, is actively innovating to find new ways of using resources more efficiently and thereby minimising our contribution to climate change. To facilitate this transition, by 2025 it is easy for everybody to access information and services to help them find ways to reduce waste and repurpose things they no longer need.

NB Some of the actions included in the action plans below, and the scale and pace at which they can be progressed, will be subject to the prevailing national policy context and/or the provision of additional powers and resources by central government, as made clear in Reading’s climate emergency declaration (see section 3.2 above).

R1: Reduce – questioning our need to generate waste in the first place

Action name	Description	Target & measure/milestone	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
R1: Food: Reducing domestic food waste	Establish baseline and set meaningful targets for reducing domestic food waste Adopt the Love Food, Hate Waste toolkit from WRAP and drive behaviour change through communications Links: Business	Baseline research completed by March 2021 Communications programme in place, targets set and tracked annually from July 2021	Q1 2021 Q3 2021 onwards	Reading BC (lead); University of Reading (research)	AMBER	Baseline research important but can be done over time, not necessarily first step. Greater focus on communications required.
R2: Food: Reducing commercial food waste	Establish baseline and set meaningful targets for reducing commercial food waste Create a programme combining reduction measures, well-managed charity donations and best outcome waste processing Collaborative programme by and for business Links: Community, Business, Education	Baseline research completed by September 2021; Communications programme in place, targets set and tracked annually from January 2022 Commercial food waste collection from TBC	Q3 2021 Q1 2022 TBC	RCAN (lead); Reading UK CIC; University of Reading (research); Connect Reading; Waste/recycling contractors Reading BC/ commercial parties	AMBER	See R1. Also potential links to Green BID
R3: Food: Reducing food waste in schools	Establish baseline and set meaningful targets for reducing food waste in schools Create a programme combining reduction measures, well-managed charity donations and best outcome waste processing Commercial food waste collection to be introduced by Reading BC for schools Links: Community, Business, Education	Baseline research completed by September 2021; Communications programme in place, targets set and tracked annually from January 2022 Commercial food waste collection for schools from TBC	Q3 2021 Q1 2022 TBC	RCAN (lead); University of Reading (research); Reading BC/ commercial waste partners	AMBER	See R1.
R4: Other: Clothing	Establish baseline and set meaningful targets for reducing the amount of clothing wasted Introduce programmes to divert unwanted clothing from general waste through various means including donation, swapping, sharing, leasing/rental, etc. Investigate the potential for emulating the WearNext project pioneered in New York Links: Business, Community	Establish baseline and identify areas for improvement Publish programme of targeted interventions	Q1 2021 Q4 2021	Reading Circular Economy Club (lead); Reading UK CIC; Connect Reading; Re3 (baseline data)	AMBER	Although not progressing as planned, progress is being made. Fashion was one of the themes explored in the ‘Circular coffee + conversation’ events. There has also recently been greater media interest in fast fashion and alternatives. This action links with actions R5, R6 and R7. Work planned with the ReadingCAN communications and engagement team to progressing all four actions. Also potential links to Green BID.
R5: Other: Resource efficiency	Publish easy to access and understand best practice guidance covering all common household purchases (in and out of home) Focus on extended life, zero waste, energy efficiency Signpost established labels and standards, advisory bodies, etc. Establish communications programme to reinforce behaviour change Links: Communications and Engagement	Guidance published and communications programme launched	Q2 2021	ReadingCAN (lead); Re3; Reading UK CIC	AMBER	See R4. Also potential links to Green BID.

R2: Reuse – keeping products in use for longer; delaying the point at which they need to be recycled

Action name	Description	Target & measure/milestone	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
R6: Re-use and repair: Establish a definitive information source on re-use and repair	Compile and maintain a comprehensive directory of re-use and repair resources in Reading, and encourage new ones, especially through social enterprise Include information resources like ifixit and services like Reading Repair Café and Reading Bicycle Kitchen Establish communications programme to reinforce behaviour change Links: Community	Directory published, update process and communications programme in place by April 2021	Q2 2021	ReadingCAN (lead); Organisations offering re-use and repair services; Reading UK CIC; Transition Towns; Re3	AMBER	See R4. Also potential links to Green BID.
R7: Sharing, renting and swapping	Compile and maintain a comprehensive directory of sharing, renting and swapping resources, and encourage new ones Include peer to peer systems like Freegle, rental and “as a service” systems, charity outlets and platform services like Too Good to Go Links: Community	Directory published, update process and communications programme in place by	Q2 2021	ReadingCAN (lead); Organisations offering sharing, rental and swapping services; Transition Towns	AMBER	See R4.

R3: Recycle – seeing what we end up throwing away as still having value, and doing our best to retain and recover that value at its highest level

Action name	Description	Target & measure/milestone	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
R8: Food: Kerbside food waste recycling	Maximise take-up of kerbside food waste recycling when introduced Appropriate annual targets to be set in conjunction with Reading BC/Re3 Communications programme required to drive behaviour change Links: Community, Education	Increase Reading’s recycling rate by 7%through food waste collection	Q4 2021	Reading BC/Re3	GREEN	Current levels of capture are 40 - 45% above pre-commencement expectations.
R9: Other: Glass	Establish a baseline and set meaningful targets for increasing glass collection Improve access to glass recycling facilities for residents Focus on areas with high density housing/low car ownership Work with hospitality industry to introduce colour segregated glass collection Links: Community, Business	Establish baseline and identify areas for improvement Publish plan to introduce improved provision for residents and businesses, including targets for collection by September 2021	Q1 2021 Q3 2021	Reading BC (domestic lead); Reading UK CIC (business lead); University of Reading (research); Waste/recycling contractors	AMBER	No action but likely to be encompassed in response to national waste prevention plan and waste management plan, hence amber. Also potential links to Green BID.
R10: Other: Kerbside recycling	Maximise kerbside collection and minimise contamination Increase awareness of what can do in kerbside recycling Implement communications programme to encourage and improve confidence in recycling Set annual targets to improve collection/contamination rates Links: Community	Increase in Reading’s overall recycling rate by 4% by October 2021 arising from efforts to reduce contamination	Q4 2021	Reading BC/Re3	GREEN	All three councils are currently recycling at above 50% and for RBC (52%), in particular, that is a significant increase from 32% in April 2020. Green waste services were affected during the pandemic. Nonetheless, re3 has continued to receive booked green waste and will be making up to 10,000 bags of, high quality, peat-free, re3Grow available from early in the New Year.

R4: Reimagine and redesign – rethinking products and systems to avoid waste altogether; making Reading an engine of the circular economy

Action name	Description	Target & measure/milestone	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
R11: Plastics: Plastic-Free Reading	Continued implementation of single-use plastic-free pledge by RBC and sharing the learning Encouraging adoption of the Surfers Against Sewage Plastic-Free Community methodology and tools by communities, businesses and schools Replicate Plastic Free Caversham concept to achieve the critical mass of groups, schools and businesses required to secure Plastic Free accreditation for Reading Links: Business, Community, Education	Reading BC to share own lessons in becoming plastic free Caversham to secure accreditation as a Plastic Free Community, with first schools and businesses accredited Plastic-Free Community accreditation gained by at least one other Reading community Set annual targets for the number/percentage of schools and businesses to be Plastic Free	Q3 2021 Q3 2021 Q4 2021 Q3 2022	Reading BC (Council and schools lead); Reading UK CIC (business lead); Reading Business CAN	GREEN	Plastic Free Caversham is going well. RBC continues to make progress with implementing its plastic free motion though inevitably use of single-use PPE items during the pandemic has run counter to this. Residents recycling plastic waste can have confidence that it is managed to a high standard and as locally as possible. Plastic bottles, tubs and trays are recycled in the UK and PET is likely to be recycled as a form of food-grade packaging. re3 is currently engaged in a trial process for recycling rigid plastics via our two Recycling Centres at Smallmead, Reading, and Longshot Lane, Bracknell.
R12: Food: Climate-friendly diet	Publish reliable and authoritative information on how to eat more sustainably Focus on dietary choices, sustainable sourcing, child nutrition Guidance for caterers as well as individuals Links: Community, Business, Health, Nature, Education	Best practice identified and guidance prepared by: Communications programme developed and campaign launched by:	Q1 2021 Q3 2021	University of Reading; Subject-matter specialists (e.g. breastfeeding, food growing networks)	AMBER	Connections made with ‘Trust in Food’ project team at Henley Business School and the team leading the ‘Co-production of healthy, sustainable food systems for disadvantaged communities’ consortium led by University of Reading. Also potential links to Green BID.
R13: Other: Zero waste and circular festivals	Work with Reading’s festival organisers to develop resource-stewardship systems to reduce waste at festival venues (and campsites, where appropriate) Explore different approaches to engage and encourage organisers, vendors and festival goers in addressing waste Establish baseline and set meaningful targets for reducing waste and maximising recovery of resources Engage with Reading Festival to understand the challenge of campsite waste and explore opportunities to reduce unrecyclable tent waste Connect with and draw on the experiences of Green Deal Circular Festivals and other sustainable events bodies (A Greener Festival, Julie’s Bicycle, Vision 2025) Links: Business	Work with ReadingUK CIC local festival organisers group to understand the challenges and share best practice by: Collect baseline data by: Co-produce programme of knowledge sharing and local collaboration by: All of Reading’s festivals to have a statement or page describing their approach to sustainability on their web site by: Zero tents to be left behind on site at Reading Festival by:	Q3 2020 Q1 2021 Q2 2021 Q3 2021 Q3 2025	Reading Circular Economy Club (lead); Reading UK CIC; University of Reading (research); Waste/recycling contractors; Festival organisers	AMBER	Although not progressing as planned, progress is being made. Events sector was particularly badly affected by Covid restrictions. Nevertheless, conversations have continued in about how local festivals can be more sustainable. Light-touch audits have been undertaken with some festival organisers. Reading Festival Forum now exists. Images of abandoned tents at Reading Festival are disappointing but important to wait for more analysis. May still represent progress, even if slower than hoped.
R14: Circular economy: Establish Reading Circular Economy Club to grow the Circular Economy in Reading	Establish Reading Circular Economy Club – part of international network of Circular Economy Clubs Peer to peer information exchange and networking for businesses/organisations Develop resource exchange to create closed resource loops, reducing use of virgin resources and finding new uses for waste products Links: Business	Reading Circular Economy Club set up – DONE Regular scheduled meetings and events established and publicised Resources exchange set up and operational	Complete Q4 2020 Q2 2021	Reading Circular Economy Club (lead); Reading CAN/Reading Business CAN; Re3	GREEN	Over the last year, Circular Economy Club Reading has established itself as the go-to resource for people interested in developing the circular economy in Reading. Recordings of the online ‘Circular coffee + conversation’ events represent a valuable resource for those wanting to explore examples of current practice.

THEME: Water
PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
The theme group continues to meet and four of the key payers (Environment Agency, Thames Water, University of Reading and Reading Borough Council) are taking forward commitments within the Action Plan. There have been obvious limits on capacity due to the pandemic as many of the key staff, particularly in the statutory bodies, have been pre-occupied with pandemic related duties.
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
There are various funding streams available to support flood risk management schemes and bids have been submitted with mixed success. Reading Borough Council has secured £150,000 in flood defence grant in aid to address identified surface water flood risk issues, but a bid for works to take forward the Kennet Meadows project was, unfortunately, unsuccessful. The Council has been working with the Environment Agency on the National Flood Risk Strategy update and a report on this was taken to the Council’s Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport Committee in June 2021.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
The pandemic delayed implementation of some local surface water flood risk management schemes (e.g. Stone Street) but these are now getting back on track and funding has been secured for Stone Street. When complete, this scheme will be the 6th out of 6 priority flood risk management schemes identified in the Council’s first Surface Water Management Plan.

Water Theme Action Plan: Reading will aim to become the most water aware and water efficient town in the UK, going beyond national targets. We will achieve this by developing and implementing a dedicated communications and education strategy and delivering a range of water saving improvements in Reading’s homes and businesses. Climate change will also increase the risk of flooding: significantly from the River Thames and from urban storm water. We will help residents and businesses understand these risks and to get ready for them.

NB Some of the actions included in the action plans below, and the scale and pace at which they can be progressed, will be subject to the prevailing national policy context and/or the provision of additional powers and resources by central government, as made clear in Reading’s climate emergency declaration (see section 3.2 above).

Sub category: Water supply and water conservation

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery Partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
W1: Educate the public about Reading’s water situation	Share and explain our 2050 target and how this compares to current consumption, e.g.: Domestic water consumption by activity Info on non-domestic water consumption Where our water comes from Develop Comms Strategy for engaging public, including schools Links: Education, Community, Business, Communication and Engagement.	Available material published on RCAN website New material prepared and published	2020 2021	Thames Water	AMBER	Thames Water provided information – this now needs to be compiled suitably for uploading on website Generic comms material is available but not yet Reading specific
W2: Educate households about their water consumption and the need to save water	Share information on the risks of drought and importance of water conservation. Provide tips and information on how to save water in the home and garden Develop and implement Comms Strategy for engaging households Links: Energy & LCD, Nature, Communication and Engagement	Information resource compiled and published Comms programme underway	2021 2025	Thames Water	AMBER	Thames Water has launched new online water calculator tool for public use
W3: Educate businesses about water use, efficiency benefits, and dry weather preparedness / response	Share the Thames Water Drought Plan Signpost relevant information and case studies from reputable sources Create industry-specific advice and case studies Run a drought exercise with Local Resilience Forum (LRF), partners and businesses Communicate the Environment Agency 'incident management' approach to drought Links: Business, Energy and LCD, Communication and Engagement	Information resource compiled and published Industry-specific guidance available Drought exercise and incident management response	2020 2021 2022	Thames Water (lead) Environment Agency RCAN/RBCAN	AMBER	Thames Water are doing Smarter business visits to key Reading Businesses Thames water have completed water saving initiatives with The Oracle Shopping Centre In Oct 2021 Thames Water will launch an online business water calculator tool to understand water use and savings, and benchmark
W4: Educate the public about water quality and sewer abuse	Publish sewer abuse and water quality stats, messages and content to RCAN website Links: Business, Community, Communication and Engagement	Content published	2021	Thames Water	RED	Team to review timeline on this action
W5: Water efficiency measures	Promote installation of water saving and efficiency devices during refurbishment Promote Thames Water’s ‘Smarter Business Visit’ scheme to all schools in Reading Increase awareness of leaky-loos and benefits of fixing plumbing losses Engage with building management companies to promote retrofitting/leak fix Expand the provision of water info packs from new homes to all households Promote Thames Water’s ‘Smarter Home’ visit scheme to homes with smart meters Support the roll-out of smart meters Conduct periodic research on understanding and engagement with water saving. Links: Community, Business, Communication and Engagement	Refurbishment programme Schools visits, building management company engagement and leaky loos programme Water info packs, smart meters and research project	2020 2021 2025	RCAN Reading Borough Council Thames Water University of Reading (research)	AMBER	Target dates to be reviewed (due to Covid) Thames Water to announce roll out of smart meters in the Thames valley to be completed by 2025 (5 years early)
W6: “Water Neutrality” as a planning requirement	Investigate whether the RBC Sustainable Planning Document can be modified to include: the requirement for all new major developments to contribute to funding water saving measures equivalent to the development’s water consumption. adopting the ‘fittings approach’ within Building Regulations rather than a pcc calculation approach Links: Energy and LCD	Share the contents of the Sustainable Planning Document on RCAN website Feedback on required amendments Amendments implemented	2020 2022 2025	Reading BC Thames Water	RED	Theme group to re-engage with RBC Planning team to take this forward
W7: Leadership and Influence	Lobby MPs and Defra to introduce a mandatory water label to help consumers make water-efficient choices Lobby MPs and Defra to strengthen building regulations and planning process, to drive water efficiency within all new developments and procurement schemes.	Water labelling Building regs and planning	2021 2025	RCAN	GREEN	Defra has announced in Environment Bill that they will introduce mandatory water labelling. Building regs will be replaced by the Future Home Standards
W8: Research to drive future improvements	Research the costs, benefits and suitability, of rainfall harvesting and grey water recycling schemes. Use UKCP18 climate modelling and local river flow models, to develop projections for future drought / water resource availability. With RBC and LEP update our estimates of Reading population growth to 2050 Develop a new evidence-based 2050 water target Review the first Adaptation Plan and identify and deliver initial win-win opportunities Identify thresholds, risks, solutions and case studies for the second Adaptation Plan Work with Thames Water to understand the changes to household and business water use due to COVID-19 impacts Links: Adaptation	Develop research proposals	2020-25	RCAN University of Reading (research)	AMBER

Sub category: Flooding Resilience

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
W9: Raise awareness of fluvial (river) flood risk	Raise awareness of flood risk from the River Thames and the proposed Reading and Caversham Scheme by carrying out various engagement activities Update the flood maps on the Gov.UK website to show the areas at risk of flooding based on the latest flood modelling Links: Education, Business, Transport, Community, Adaptation	Engagement activities Flood maps updated	Q2-3 2020 2022	Environment Agency Partners: Reading BC, local councillors, local businesses and community groups	AMBER	EA is planning a presentation on the scheme to RBC’s Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport Committee in November 2021
W10: Raise awareness of the Flood Warning and flood alert service	Increase the number of at-risk homes and businesses signed-up to receive Flood Alerts Signpost advice on the Flood Warning Service and what to do before, during and after a flood Develop “what if” scenarios to help people and businesses understand the importance of self-preparation, and education about flood risk Links: Education, Business, Community, Adaptation	90% sign-up to FW service 100% sign-up to FW service “What if” scenarios developed and posted on ReadingCAN	Q4 2021 Q4 2025 Q4 2025	Environment Agency Partners: Reading BC and community groups	AMBER	Text alert system in place (for fluvial flood risk alert) – difficult to replicate for surface water flood risk as inherently more uncertain
W11: Reducing fluvial flood risk from River Thames	Work in partnership with Risk Management Authorities and local stakeholders to identify ways to reduce fluvial flood risk Gain support from all Reading communities on action to reduce flood risk from the River Thames Seek funding through partnership funding and local grants. Links: Education, Business, Community, Adaptation	Reading community makes decision about favoured River Thames flood reduction option Funds raised to deliver favoured option	Q2-3 2021 2025	Environment Agency Partners: Reading BC, local councillors, Thames Water, Local Resilience Forum, community groups and local businesses	AMBER	Flood risk management work in Oxford scheme may have some benefit to reducing flood risk in Reading by dealing with upstream issues
W12: Implement sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS)	Explain the importance of SuDS and their practical application Find out what post scheme monitoring is happening and recommend how this can be improved Links: Nature, Adaptation, Transport	Share planning information Monitoring, reporting and research	2020 2025	Reading BC	GREEN	Good SUDS policy Included in Reading Local Plan but challenges in implementing this through planning due to developers claiming it would undermine viability of schemes RBC urban tree planting and other management approaches will help
W13: Investigate the use of green infrastructure to reduce slow down storm water	Investigate measures to slow the flow of storm water, eg by planting and creating scrapes and swales. Follow up on research by Reading University and the Landwise project Transfer learning to RBC Sustainable Design and Construction (supplementary planning document). Links: Nature, Transport, Adaptation, Business	Scope project brief and costs Deliver results	2020 2023	Water theme group Partners: Environment Agency and University of Reading	AMBER
W14: Improve the resilience of the Kennet Meadows	Develop a plan for the Kennet Meadows to make it a resilient wetland Make sure the plans preserve the need for the meadows to act as flood plain Consider the drought risk and make sure the needs of the meadows are considered in EA / TW drought plans. There will be a limit to their protection...is it possible to develop a recovery plan early to try and mitigate? Links: Nature, Adaptation, Energy	Workshop to bring partners together and agree scope Develop and share plan	2021 2023	EA Partners: CEH (Wallingford), UoR Water theme group member	AMBER	Partners are working together under auspices ‘Super G’ project to develop a scheme (see also Nature theme Action Plan)
W15: Improve our flood risk adaptation plans	Improve our understanding of climate change adaptation thresholds Investigate the latest UK climate projections to find out what extreme rainfall events we need to prepare for. Check the developing EA guidance for fluvial flooding and develop our own understanding of the changing flood risk for the River Thames and River Kennet. Develop our flood adaptation plans through to 2050 and beyond Links: Education, Adaptation	Post information on revised future flood modelling, as it is released Deliver report on change in storm rainfall, and Thames + Kennet flood peaks	Ongoing Q4 2024	Partners: EA, Reading BC and local interest groups	AMBER	Uni of Reading/Met Office have been collaborating with RBC to develop City Packs for Reading highlighting key climate impacts – a tool for communicating climate risk
W16: Investigate opportunities for Green roofs	Develop recommendations for green roofs, green walls and landscaping for new build Explore opportunities for retrofitting homes and offices Develop advice for home owners on the benefits of breaking up hard surfaces in driveways and gardens Links: Transport, Nature, Community, Business	Create research proposals Deliver results	2021 2025	UoR Partners: Reading BC and EA	AMBER	The first ’Living Bus Shelters’ were installed on the A33 in October 2021
W17: Develop links to the Thames Valley Local Resilience Forum	Investigate the limits of our emergency plans and explore what the community of Reading can do to become more resilient. Share the developing adaptation planning and vision for Reading with the LRF to inform long term strategic decisions. Share advice on being prepared for an incident including "Thames Valley: Are you ready?" booklet and advice from the Environment Agency Use resources from Business in the Community Business Resilience Group to help businesses improve resilience Links: Community, Business, Adaptation	Organise meeting with LRF Public workshop/ event on resilience and adaptation	2021 2022	EA Partners: Reading BC, TW, UoR, LRF	AMBER

THEME: Nature and Green Spaces
PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Many actions have been delayed as a result of pandemic restrictions over the last 18 months, but are still capable of being delivered within the 5 year Action Plan period. Reading Borough Council has extended its successful ‘re-wilding’ trials and changed mowing regimes, purchasing new mowing equipment to enable a ‘cut and collect’ regime to be applied to about 6 ha of grass verge/roundabout and an additional 2 ha of parkland and, in some cases, supplemented the areas with wildflower seed. ‘Cut and collect’ removes the cut grass after mowing, enabling a greater diversity of wildflowers to thrive and reducing maintenance costs over time. Work to review the management of council open land is on target.
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
The Environment Bill, currently working its way through Parliament, will make ‘biodiversity net gain’ a mandatory requirement for new development, put the development of Local Nature Recovery Strategies on a statutory basis and create new regulatory structures for environmental protection. The first of these has the potential to generate an income stream to support delivery of biodiversity enhancements, particularly in strategic biodiversity opportunity areas.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
Pandemic restrictions greatly reduced opportunities for interacting with community groups and has resulted in a reduction in numbers taking part in voluntary conservation work in the town. It remains unclear when/whether this can be re-built to pre-pandemic levels. Natural England published a report on Carbon Storage and Sequestration by Habitat 2021 (NERR094) which collates latest research on carbon storage and sequestration potential of different land management systems which has relevance to the importance of various actions within the Action Plan. BBOWT’s Nature Recovery Network programme overlaps with the action plan and a meeting is being held with them to explore further. Their work should inform the development of Local Nature Recover Strategies (LNRS’s), but Defra is currently consulting on the appropriate scale at which LNRS’s should be developed.

Nature Theme Action Plan: By 2025 the people of Reading will live in a greener town with changes to the management of open spaces and the green links between them that store more carbon as well as giving shade for hot summers, corridors for wildlife and some flood control. New developments will include biodiversity net gain and water management, and there will be exemplar sites showing how to change planting and soil management around buildings to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

NB Some of the actions included in the action plans below, and the scale and pace at which they can be progressed, will be subject to the prevailing national policy context and/or the provision of additional powers and resources by central government, as made clear in Reading’s climate emergency declaration (see section 3.2 above).They are also dependent upon recruiting enough volunteers to the Nature task Force to supplement the existing nature theme group.

Sub Category: Carbon Sequestration

Action name	Description	Target & measure/ milestone	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
N1: Increasing tree cover across the town	Plant more street trees Test new planting options in town centre and on the road network Promote trees in private gardens/ business/ schools Encourage tree and hedge planting in air pollution hotspots esp. schools Enable more street tree planters Promote use of degradable tree planting maps and tubes Link: Education, Transport	Targets per updated Biodiversity Action Plan & RBC Tree Strategy (NB resources for and timing of implementation may be influenced by England Tree Strategy, publication of which is awaited) Publish guidance on RCAN website 2 school hedges/year Review policies for traffic restrictions Policy for council planting; publish guidance for householders;	RBC to adopt Tree Strategy 2020 Planting programme to 2025 2020 2021 2021 2021	Reading BC, Ethical Reading; Tree Wardens (RTWN); Nature Task Force (NTF) Econet Food4Families Thames Water	AMBER	RBC Tree Strategy published March 2021. RBC street tree planting programme continues on target. RTF have planted test mini forest at Hewett Avenue; article written of garden trees for Caversham Bridge
N2: Managing land to store more carbon and increase biodiversity	Review methods to protect existing stored carbon and relative benefits of different land uses Identify optimum practical and effective management systems for retaining carbon in Reading Feedback into review of management of Council land	Conduct literature review Feedback into review of Council land management and planting programme	2021 2021	Reading BC University NTF BBOWT	AMBER	Rewilding of Highways verges contributes both more carbon storage and biodiversity
N3 explore use of biochar and charcoal	Research on cost benefit of charcoal and biochar Expect results to show that expensive to purchase but beneficial for tree growth and resilience to climate change and should be part of planting plans Seek opportunities to make charcoal from local forestry waste to sell locally and reduce imports and to dig into the soils to sequester carbon	Research undertaken RBC ground maintenance policies and planting policies revised accordingly Advice leaflets for householders on RCAN website	2023	UoR RBC Local charcoal makers BBOWT Coppice Federation	AMBER	PhD student undertaking research at UoR but no feedback yet.
N4: Review Council parks and woodlands	Survey land, including allotments, and make recommendations that increase carbon storage, flood control, and Biological Action Plan delivery, compatible with increased public use for health Link: Water, Health	Survey minimum 4 sites per year Recommend management changes	From 2020	Reading BC NTF Econet, Reading and District Natural History Society (RDNHS), RTWN	GREEN	On target for 4 site reviews pa Management changes recommended Actions agreed and being delivered on some sites
N5: Test different management of parks, verges and roundabouts	Review mowing regimes in parks Consider measures like extending tree cover, scrub regeneration and conservation grassland Consider options for managing roadside verges/roundabouts Test, review and implement preferred options Accompany changes with public education campaign	Annual meeting to review options for evidence-based changes Consider options for changing mowing/planting on 6 area/yr of verge/roundabouts and 2 areas in parks Review impact and extend across town	From 2021 From 2021 From 2020	Reading BC NTF Community groups	GREEN	RBC has already made the changes required on the five year plan and is continuing to increase these areas and review impact
N6: Planning for replacement for ash dieback	Decide which areas to be left for regeneration with resistant ash Decide on replacement species on Council land where necessary Grow on local material to plant out (potential schools project) Link: Education	Review Council woodlands and revise management plans 2 year collection of seeds with schools	2022 2 per year	Reading BC Parks; “friends of” groups; NTF, Community groups	AMBER	Review taking place as part of N4. Seed collection took place with Caversham Primary School; session being arranged with Redlands Primary School
N7: Kennet Meadows	Review options to increase carbon storage and biodiversity through: Maintaining water levels through the year increasing granularity of livestock management to form a mosaic of swards Before and after surveys required for carbon capture and biodiversity Links: Water	Discussions underway Completion targets and dates to be agreed	TBA	Land Owners EA, Reading BC NTF Thames Water	AMBER	Landowners and graziers approached re: new management system, Natural England involved and may support through ELMS. Species monitoring taken place. Need input and agreements with Thames Water and landowners.
N8: Increase hedgerows	Survey existing hedgerows and suggest new hedgelines/infill Schools encouraged to have hedge boundaries to mitigate air pollution Hedgerows promoted along cycle routes/ walking routes for air pollution mitigation and shade Links: Health	Review hedgerows as part of wildlife corridor survey at 10km/year Target schools and park boundaries for priority planting	Annual report 2 per year from 2021	NTF to survey Landowners to plant and maintain	RED	No systematic assessment taken place so far. Hedgeline infill identified on three sites to be undertaken winter 2021/22
N9: Food waste/green waste	Support no dig cultivation, home composting/ worm bins Disseminate information on food fermentation and support larger scale waste trials Seek University research to quantify effects	Information on RCAN website and links to other sources Support 2 trials: data required before end of RE3 contract	2020 2024	NTF Food4Families Community groups UoR MERL	AMBER	Soil food factsheet written for website. University research programme undertaken and has produced new focus; two pilot projects agreed at MERL and Leighton Park, but Covid restrictions stopped implementation

Sub category: Supporting wildlife habitats and biodiversity

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
N10: Compensatory habitat restoration/offsets for urban development	Baseline review of the likely requirements for habitat compensation and biodiversity net gain due to development of sites in the Local Plan Financial mechanism developed	System to be set up Implementation	2020 Continuous	Reading BC planning	RED
N11: Identifying wildlife corridors	Working from the green links shown in the Local Plan, and revision of the Biodiversity Action Plan, identify primary and secondary routes Agree any changes/additions changes with RBC planning department and Council	Identify routes and mark on plan for transfer to RBC Geographical Information System	2020	Reading BC planning BAP review/NTF Reading BC parks and Highways	AMBER	BAP revised and adopted
N12: Assessing the quality of wildlife corridors	Review existing data Walk through and rapid assessment of accessible land List priorities for enhancement on public land and community land Link: Community, Health	Start within year 1, 10km a year reports on the corridor survey	Annual from 2020-2025	NTF/Reading BC community groups Network rail BBOWT	RED	No systematic assessment taken place along corridors Opportunities for enhancement provided to RBC for all public land Agreed changes at Clayfield Copse with Council to be introduced in the next year
N13: Managing the impact of development areas on wildlife corridors	Ensure design and planting on development sites contributes to wildlife corridors Ensure connectivity through developments with appropriate supplemental planning guidance Align with objectives of revised Biodiversity Action Plan and/or green infrastructure strategy/plan	Supplementary Planning Document published	2021 Implementation ongoing	Reading BC Berkshire Local Nature Partnership BBOWT	RED
N14: Species protection/ recovery	Biodiversity Action Plan develops objectives for increasing/recovery of identified key species Ensure these are fed into management methods and changes in wildlife corridors	Develop land management objectives Implement from:	2020 2021	Reading BC/NTF University of Reading	GREEN	BAP revised and adopted
N15: Biodiversity enhancement pilots	Meet/work with residents associations/ community groups Offer regular workshops/newsletter input/other methods to support changes in these areas Link: Community	Identify 2 areas to participate including an area of deprivation Review impact relative to other areas	2020 2023	NTF Adopt-a street Community groups	AMBER	Work done in Caversham/Emmer Green area; Work commencing in central Reading this autumn
N16: Data recording/ monitoring	Request that all new data go onto TVERC, irecord or data systems that link with TVERC (Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre) Recruit volunteers for recording Encourage householders to take part in garden surveys/ TV projects Link: Community	Contact all local groups Recruit volunteers Publicise surveys undertaken by others	2021 2020 Each year	NTF Community groups UoR	RED

Sub category: Planting for biodiversity and resilience

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
N17: Provide Information on adaptation	Provide information on climate resilience and wildlife friendly gardening Improving soil structure and promote water reuse Promote exemplar sites – eg council, church, school Links: Water, Health, Education	Information published on RCAN website 2 exemplar projects by:	Q4 2020 2025	NTF RISC community groups, Reading BC	AMBER	Articles written for Caversham Bridge
N18: Greening front gardens and reducing hardstanding	Provide information and links to potential designs for increasing green cover and reducing hardstanding Hold seminar for developers Seek TV support for project, eg Gardener’s World Links: Water, Energy and LCD	Information by end 2021 Seminar Contact TV options	2021 2022 2023	RCAN/ NTF/RHS	RED
N19: Interaction with garden centres	Encourage garden centres to introduce a wildlife friendly and climate change adaptation section Peat-free labelling of composts Link: Business	Programme introduced	2020	NTF BBOWT	AMBER	Dobbies approached, no response as yet

Sub category: Green Spaces for Cooling/well-being

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
N20: Green Infrastructure	Using green infrastructure to reduce carbon emissions from buildings and promote urban cooling, e.g.: Promote Green walls and roofs on new build Promote green roofs on existing single storey structures Plant for shading of cycle/pedestrian routes Research on impacts of green infrastructure required Links: Energy & LCD, Water, Transport, Health	In local plan. May need Supplementary planning document Advice published on RCAN website Research projects to evaluate effects	SPD 2022 2022 2021	Reading BC NTF NTF/UoR	AMBER	Green roof on new bus shelters on A33 implemented and planned elsewhere; advice on small tree planting in articles for Caversham Bridge
N21 Develop green space to enable increased health benefits	Tree/hedge planting to provide shade, reduce particulate pollution and oxides of nitrogen Links: Health	Part of reviews referred to in N4 above	Ongoing from 2020	Landowners	AMBER	Undertaken for 8 sites so far, not systematic approach along corridors

Sub category: Communication and Engagement

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
N22: Raising awareness in the community	Identify two areas in the town, including an area of deprivation, to concentrate existing resources to test ideas and communication methods for dissemination Extend proven ideas to other areas Links: All themes, Business, Community	2 target areas identified and developed	Identify test areas by 2021; Extend to four areas by 2025	Nature Task Force	GREEN	Working with Caversham area for 2 years; starting 2nd area end 2021. Articles written for Caversham Bridge. In 2021 held Beanpole Day at Caversahm Court with wildlife gardening/food growing theme; Meadows Day at Clayfield Copse with education theme for biodiversity and regeneration; Reading well-being day at Christchurch Meadows; Town Meal seminar and stall; Caversham eco-fair
N23: Advice service for adaptation	Provide advice to schools/ community groups/ for wildlife friendly gardening/ water efficient gardening/recycling in the garden Links: Water, Education, Community, Adaptation	Offer half day advice service to up to 20 organisations a year, plus online leaflets	Advice service from 2021	NTF BBOWT	AMBER	Redlands Primary; Keep Emmer Green planting around car park
N24: Support schools in their climate change initiatives	Provide list of support actions available through ReadingCAN or external sources to enhance existing systems (e.g. ecoschools), and distribute Links: Education, Communication and Engagement	Create option list for schools Offer 8 support activities a year	2020 From 2021	RCAN Nature Task Force	RED	No response to item in education newsletter; Redlands school provided with help
N25: Supporting Businesses and NGOs in their climate change initiatives	Make opportunities for groups to do practical work via Team Challenge Link: Business, Communication and Engagement	6 actions a year	Set up by 2021	Reading BC/NTF Econet/TCV	AMBER	2 companies engaged in practical conservation work, not through team challenge
N26 Identify opportunities for green prescribing	Produce a list of groups willing to provide options for social prescribing and make available to local GPs Links: Health	List available to RBC Public Health	2021	NTF	RED	Contacted practical conservation groups to ask whether willing to offer green prescribing

THEME: Health
PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Progress with the action plan has been impacted more than most by the pandemic as this has inevitably been the focus for health service and public health partners and professionals over the last 18 months. That said, some actions have been taken forward, and other actions not envisaged when the Action Plan was created have also been progressed, including discussions between the University of Reading, the Met Office and Reading Borough Council on development of a ‘City Pack’ for Reading (due in early 2022) as a tool to help communicate climate risk and inform adaptation planning. At the same time the Royal Berkshire Hospital has launched a Care Without Carbon initiative as it seeks to understand and reduce the carbon footprint of its operations.
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
The health implications of climate change and the need to adapt are acknowledged in the new Berkshire West Health and Wellbeing Strategy which was endorsed by Reading Borough Council in October 2021. This is a key strategic document supported by a series of action plans which provide an opportunity to address in more detail how climate impacts and adaptation action can be taken forward in the context of health and wellbeing.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
Whilst the pandemic in many ways diverted the attention of policy makers from the climate change agenda, it also highlighted similar questions about our preparedness, particularly in the context of some commentators pointing out that there is ‘no vaccine against climate change’. Many governmental and organisational risk management frameworks were not fully prepared to cope with the pandemic, and the same can no doubt be said of climate risks, which are in some respects even greater than those raised by the pandemic. Climate and weather related risks like heatwaves, drought, flooding and extreme weather may represent significant risks in and of themselves or have the potential to magnify other strategic risks, including numerous risks to public health and wellbeing, and risk management strategies need to be developed accordingly.

Health Theme Action Plan: By 2025, people in Reading will be well informed about how to embed climate-friendly activities into their lives and self-manage the health impacts of climate change, benefiting from policies and programmes that enable them to thrive despite its effects. All climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies will consider the impact on health; with particular emphasis on heat-related health risks, air quality and mental wellbeing.

NB Some of the actions included in the action plans below, and the scale and pace at which they can be progressed, will be subject to the prevailing national policy context and/or the provision of additional powers and resources by central government, as made clear in Reading’s climate emergency declaration (see section 3.2 above).

Sub category: Heat

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
H1: Adaptation and anticipation in health facilities	Facilities in hospitals and care homes adapted to extreme heat, e.g. Provision of cool space for residents Storage for medicines requiring cool temperatures Risk register of those at risk from heat	CQC reports on facilities in Reading all positive on these aspects.	2023	Public Health Berkshire - lead	AMBER	Need to establish stronger NHS link. Berkshire Public Health Heatwave and Summer preparedness plans are in place.
H2: Publicise cool public spaces	Explore potential for air-conditioned places to be opened to the public during heatwaves Maps and lists in libraries, public spaces, buses. Publicity in local media when heatwaves are forecast Support tree planting initiatives and man-made (canopies) solutions Links: Energy & LCD, Nature, Business, Communication and Engagement	Completion and publication of list	Initial list 2022 List updated yearly	RBC/RCAN	AMBER	See above heatwave plan, various comms used. bullet point 1 and 4 need action
H3: Increase the number of cooling public spaces– nature-based solutions	Implement urban greening and tree-planting initiatives Create man-made solutions where necessary (canopies)	See action N1 in Nature Theme	AMBER	See nature theme

Sub category: Flooding

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
H4: Anticipation in health and social care facilities	Flexible accommodation for peak loads in emergencies Flood risk planning and preparation for in-patient facilities Link: Water	Establish baseline Set targets Plan published	2020 2021 2022	Public Health Berkshire – lead RBC	RED	Need stronger NHS link.
H5: Minimising health impacts from flooding	Convene a group to determine what support is needed to minimise the health impacts from anticipated flooding and to make recommendations about appropriate interventions. Link: Water	Group to report by end of	2022	RCAN	RED	No specific action on this but see also flood risk management actions in Water Theme

Sub category: Air pollution – see also Transport Theme Action Plan

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
H6: Supporting citizens to self-manage air quality risks	Explore the application of dynamic real time air quality data to help citizens protect themselves Raising awareness of green/ blue corridor and urban travel routes with lower pollution levels Reach those most in need by prioritising areas measuring high pollution levels and areas of deprivation Possible collaboration with Adept Live Lab project Links: Nature	TBC	TBC	Reading BC (lead) University of Reading Adept Live Lab Stakeholders	AMBER	CO2 monitors arriving in schools September 2021 to monitor air quality. See also nature theme.

Sub-category: reducing emissions from the health sector in Reading

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
H7: Minimising the health impacts from infectious diseases	Convene a group to determine what support is needed to minimise the health impacts from infectious diseases associated with climate change and to make recommendations about appropriate interventions	Group to report by end of	2022	RCAN	RED
H8: ‘For a Greener NHS’ campaign	Adopting the national ‘For A Greener NHS’ campaign in Reading to determine the quickest feasible path to get the NHS to ‘net zero carbon’ Royal Berks NHS Foundation Trust to produce action plan subsequently	NHS staff and establishments to feed into Expert Panel to report by Summer 2020 (local action plans to be produced subsequently)	Q2-3 2020	Royal Berks NHS Foundation Trust Other NHS facilities	AMBER	RBH has launched ‘Care Without Carbon’ initiative to measure and reduce emissions from its operations.
H9: Implementation of NHS Standard Contract	New national contract requiring hospitals to reduce carbon from buildings and estates, whilst switching to less polluting products, and encouraging more active travel for staff	Contract implemented	Q2 2021	Royal Berks NHS Foundation Trust	GREEN	This is a requirement in the new standard contract
H10: Development of Green Plan for Royal Berks Hospital	New plan covering asset management, travel and transport, use of resources and greenhouse gas emissions	Plan completed	Q2 2021	Royal Berks NHS Foundation Trust	GREEN	To be approved by Trust Board 16 December
H11: Cooperation with local GP practices	Link GP practices with sustainability initiatives including ‘The Green Impact for Health Toolkit’	Health Theme Group to make contact with GPs or representative body	2021	RCCP/RCAN/GP Practises	RED	Need CCG link.

Sub category: Communication, engagement and education

Action name	Description	Targets & measures/ milestones	Target completion date	Delivery partners	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
H12: Cooperation with local health authorities	Create strong links to ensure climate change is at the centre of strategy. Initiate discussions with Health and Wellbeing Board https://democracy.reading.gov.uk/mgCommitteeDetails.aspx?ID=176	Meet to determine next steps	Q3 2020	RCAN lead	AMBER	Berkshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-2030 acknowledges the importance of climate risks. Implementation plans for Reading currently being developed to include actions to address climate and health risks where applicable.
H13: Cooperation with local planning authorities	Supporting Planning Team in climate impact assessment, ecosystem services tools and mitigation measures in relation to new builds and health & wellbeing of existing communities and future generations	Meet to determine next steps?	Q4 2020	AMBER	Need stronger planning link
H14: Cooperation with Brighter Futures for Children and schools	Align with health and wellbeing targets Connect with young people in their own right and as a route to influence their parents Create repository of sustainable frameworks and climate change learning resources for schools Increase tree and hedge planting in schools, for heat reduction and improving air quality Support outdoor learning initiatives in school grounds and urban green spaces Links: Nature	Meet to determine next steps	Q4 2020	RCAN Brighter Futures for Children Primary Schools Secondary Schools	AMBER	Need stronger BFfC link.
H15: Improve cooperation between RBC Parks and Open Spaces team, conservation and therapeutic nature and horticulture sectors	Increasing amount and quality of green space to enable residents to benefit from the improved physical and mental health Mapping nature recovery priorities against indices of deprivation data to support people and wildlife where needed most Supporting Reading Tree Strategy Promoting green prescribing initiatives Links: Nature	Ongoing – measure quality using Natural England’s guidance	Ongoing	Reading BC NTF	AMBER	Wildbeing project linked to social prescribing. Links to obesity and physical activity agenda. See also nature theme.
H16: Publicise the health & well-being benefits to be gained from taking action on climate change	Awareness raising linking health & well-being with climate friendly choices, including diet (less food miles, less processing, more plant-based), travel choices and housing retrofit Encourage behaviour change by highlighting positive impact of climate action, such as air quality improvements reducing asthma attacks and supporting brain development Awareness raising to highlight the importance of greenspace to health & well-being and climate adaptation including boosting conservation volunteering and tree planting. Links: Education, Community, Business	Explore carbon literacy training and positive climate action campaign tailored to specific target audiences	2021	RCAN Reading Green Christians	AMBER	New Berkshire West Health and Wellbeing Strategy and local implementation plans to improve these links. Obesity and wellbeing links to RBC plans.
H17: Support for mental health and wellbeing, targeting those suffering health inequalities	Extension of existing mental health programmes to include the mental health issues associated with heat, flooding or air pollution; also climate anxiety Supporting the local nature sector to deliver green prescribing, especially for vulnerable groups Sustainable greenspace management boosting biodiversity, carbon sequestration and supporting health & wellbeing Align with health and wellbeing targets Support use of outdoor locations for health and wellbeing workshops	Extended programme in place	2022	Reading BC Public Health	AMBER	Wildbeing project linked to social prescribing. Compass Recovery College does a number of workshops outdoors. Physical activity options outdoors, e.g. walks - links to RBC plans.
H18: Support the community gardening and food growing sector	Encourage the use of greenspace/ gardens for growing food in public and private spaces and educational opportunities Education around healthy and climate-friendly diets, including basic cookery skills	Measure number and size of spaces and volunteer numbers.	Ongoing	Reading Gardening for Health and Wellbeing Network Food4Families Reading Food Growing Network	AMBER	Obesity agenda – new tender for community food project to link into these opportunities.
H19: Research, measuring and monitoring	Explore what data is already available on public health impacts of climate change in Reading Identify data gaps and establish research projects Measure, monitor and report on correlation of illnesses with climate change impacts to improve adaptation planning Possible link with Lancet Countdown project	Scoping meeting	December 2019 DONE	RCAN / University of Reading	GREEN	See PHOF indicators, e.g. air pollution. University of Reading Heat Map project.

THEME: Communication & Engagement Theme
PROGRESS WITH ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
We are steadily growing our network with an increase in social followers. Through a successful ‘Kickstart’ placement, we have been able to update the website content in terms of historical blogs and new blogs, start to look at third party events we can support and build up our partnerships and connections to local organisations. We need to continue to work on the website to sort some of the snagging, have regular content updates and implements some of the new content ideas – for example eco resource hub, and develop other marcomms routes, for example newsletters Some of the deadlines were too ambitious, and need to be revised We need to find a clear lead for the business activity
EXTERNAL POLICY CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
None affecting Communication & Engagement.
OTHER EXTERNAL CHANGES RELEVANT TO THE THEME
Pandemic restrictions delayed some of the actions. We need to agree a new deadline for these areas. We ran the Reading Climate Festival from 20-26 September 2021 for the second year running as a week of free virtual and live events to inspire action on climate change, open to all. This activity needs to be put onto the Communication & Engagement plan as a yearly event.

Reading Climate Emergency Strategy 2020-25: Communications & Engagement Plan summary

Action name*	Description (With bulleted list of activities needed to achieve action and links)	Target & measure/ milestone (i.e. how will we know that we have completed the action?)	Target completion date	Action owner + list of delivery partner/s+	Any resource or capacity challenges? (in funding, in skills, in capacity, missing key partners)	Status	Commentary (100 word max)
General
Information hub	Establish and maintain a hub on the website where all themes are supported with relevant, practical information for all stakeholders, so that everything is available in a single place. Mixture of bespoke content (Reading-centric) and signposts to reliable sources of information eg WRAP, Wildlife Trust, Energy Saving Trust, Carbon Trust etc. Supported by comms programme (conventional and social) to drive traffic.	Published.	Set up by Nov 2020, continuously updated thereafter.	Comms and Engagement Team Theme leads	Website needs professional design to make sure it’s engaging and mobile-optimised.	GREEN	Activity: website now has historical blogs, and event listings. News blogs posted Next: Capture snagging, content updates & ideas to improve
Dashboard	Develop a dashboard with KPIs that track progress against the targets in the strategy Publish on the RCAN website but also strategic media around the town, eg large digital sign at the station, buses, The Oracle, Reading Borough Council venues.	Published	Set up by Dec 2020 and continuously updated thereafter	RCAN administrator	Some of the indicators will be lagging, these needs to be clearly communicated.	RED	Propose to postpone deadline to Dec 2021
Brand Book and Stakeholder Map	Develop brand guidelines, style guide and messaging matrix Confirm role of RCCP versus RCAN and relationship with other organisations within Reading	Brand Book and stakeholder map created	By end Sept	Comms and Engagement Team	Will need to be revised and updated after the governance audit is completed	GREEN	Activity: Stakeholder map updated Next: Guidelines need updating
Campaign Calendar	Develop and publish a calendar of campaigns to encourage action on different issues, eg Beat the Street, Fair Trade Fortnight Align with RBC campaigns and initiatives led by other organisations in the town, as well as national “days” eg Earth Day Support with social media and conventional media such as bus advertising, outdoor, The Oracle, council magazine	Quarterly Rolling Comms Plan devised and published	By Nov 2020	Comms and Engagement Team	May require funding for creative and media	GREEN	Activity: regular social postings, started developing approach for newsletters Next activity: Needs continual focus, confirm newsletters approach
Climate Literacy Training	Offer carbon and climate training, tailored to support the RCAN Action Plan, to all who live, work or study in Reading Begin by training all RBC staff Potential to build on the University’s MOOC and/or Climate Reality training Accreditation available from the UNEP endorsed Carbon Literacy Project	Development of training Targets for delivery	December 2021	RCAN lead	Carbon Literacy accreditation depends on securing funding	AMBER	Not yet due. Activity: None Next: Develop list of current options
Third party events	Take part in/support local public events eg Town Meal, Beanpole, day, waterfest, meadows day, school fetes etc etc	Events calendar published and theme support agreed.	10 events per year	RCAN admin	Requires portable display materials as well as volunteer help	GREEN	Activity: Kickstart placement started, event materials developed, partnerships being developed Next: Confirm events (Covid restrictions lifted/dependent)
Funding hub	Establish and maintain a list of sources of outside funding that can be drawn on to support RCAN initiatives. Offer grants to support small local initiatives that align with RCAN goals	List published	Set up by end of 2020, continuously updated thereafter.	RCAN admin	Opportunity to offer advice on preparing bids subject to resource.	AMBER	Activity: None Next: Identify requirement with theme leads
Volunteer Programme	Work with Reading Voluntary Action to establish process to recruit volunteers to support delivery of RCAN activities	Relationship built and process established	December 2020	RCAN, RVA,	RED	Activity: None Next: Deferred due to Covid. New deadline to be agreed.
Research Programme	Establish a research programme to support the actions in the strategy Work with the University of Reading to develop a structured approach to matching research needs with students seeking research projects.	Programme developed and approach defined	April 2021	RCAN, University of Reading	RED	Activity: None Next: Need to discuss with theme leads
Climate Action Pledge	Develop a pledge that residents can sign to commit to taking action on climate change across a relevant range of impacts Possible “eco-journey” starting with simple things and becoming more advanced	Pledge defined and published	November 2020	RCAN	GREEN	Done Activity: Promoted in social Next: Continue to promote; develop marcomms support
Business focus
Climate-friendly Organisations Pledge	Define a set of commitments for organisations to sign up to in order to gain “Climate Friendly” status	Pledge defined and published	November 2020	RCAN lead	GREEN	Done Activity: None Next: Promote, develop marcomms support
Climate-Aware Business	Embed climate change into the workstreams of the LEP, IOD, Chamber of Commerce and other local business networks Work with leaders of those organisations to convince them of the strategic importance of climate change for their own organisations and their membership	All nominated organisations have climate change as part of their mission	Summer 2021	RBC lead	GREEN
Lobbying for better business practice	Identify barriers preventing use of sanctions to address “carbon crimes”, eg: Leaving lights on all night in office buildings Having doors of restaurants/retail units open Incorporate the GHG Protool (Scope 1, 2 & 3) ? Lobby central government for the policy changes	Issues identified and lobbying programme launched	Spring 2021	RCAN lead	RED	Not started Next: New deadline to be agreed
Reading Business Climate Action Network	Establish business network for sharing of expertise and knowledge on sustainable business Hold regular events Publish business-centric advice and guidance and signpost tools and models from reputable sources on the RCAN website Encourage all Reading Businesses to nominate an employee who is their representative and can help to engage the company	Network already launched. Events programme published Information hub launched	November 2020 November 2020	RCAN lead Ethical Reading Sustainability Champions	AMBER	Have Linked In group Activity: postings on Linked in Next: Need to find someone to lead & drive activity
Sustainable Business Accreditation	Investigate the suitability of BCorp and BITC frameworks and other accreditations Ideally have a free-to-use dashboard system Introduce an accreditation scheme for businesses that recognises achievement at different levels, eg bronze, silver, gold, to create a race to the top	Research completed and proposal published	Summer 2021	RCAN lead	May require funding	RED	Not started Next: New deadline to be agreed
Divestment	Divestment from fossil fuels is an important signal of intent as well as a way to divert capital investment from carbon-based to cleantech/Greentech innovation. Run a campaign encouraging all institutional investors in Reading to divest	Campaign launched	November 2021	RCAN lead	AMBER	Not started Next: New deadline to be agreed
Business volunteering	Create opportunities for staff to support delivery of actions from the strategy via Team Challenge	6 business actions a year	First actions Q1 2021	RCAN lead Connect Reading/RBC /NTF/Econet/TCV,	RED	Not started due to Covid Next: New deadline to be agreed
Community focus
Working with other organisations	Establish links with other groups working on the sustainability agenda across Reading and showcase their work through the RCAN website Enable sharing of events, expertise, knowledge and resources by other groups	Partner hub set up with ability for representatives to contribute content	Partner hub set up by end 2020	Comms and Engagement team	AMBER	Activity: started to establish links, for example WI, Caversham Bridge Next: Continue to grow network, develop hub approach
Community focused work	Identify 2 geographical areas in Reading (up to 10 streets)– and support the residents in these streets to lead more Climate friendly lives. Develop competition (eg ’green streets initiative’) Identify and work with community groups (i.e. religious, ethnic, age related) – and support the members to lead more Climate friendly lives, through community talks and projects	2 areas per year 6 groups per year	First area identified by Q2 2021 First group identified by Q1 2021	RCAN admin	RED	Not started due to Covid Next: New deadline to be agreed

Education focus
Schools-based interventions	Working with the Education team and Better Futures for Children, to establish a programme of climate change interventions for schools. To cover physical changes (i.e install solar panels, heat pumps etc) and support with lessons/curriculum / local community engagement (use Eco Schools framework?) Draw on established tools and programmes where possible	Programme launched	September 2021	RCAN admin Brighter Futures for Children, RBC Sustainability team, Helen Roberts team	https://www.eco-schools.org.uk/ https://www.greenschoolsproject.org.uk/ https://www.wwf.org.uk/get-involved/schools/green-ambassadors https://www.youngclimatewarriors.org/	RED	There is currently no person to take this forward
Reading Schools Climate Action Network	Establish teacher network for sharing of expertise and knowledge on sustainable schools (for primary and secondary) Hold regular events Publish school-centric advice and guidance and signpost tools and models from reputable sources Link to home schooling networks	Network launched. Events programme published Information hub launched	September 2021	Brighter Futures for Children RCAN, Alfred Sutton primary?	Nature Task Force?	AMBER	Activity: Termly newsletter to all Reading schools; advice on website. Teacher network yet to really take off - due to COVID school visits/connections haven’t been made Next: Ongoing newsletter. Need resource to make school connections
Model Climate Conference	Expand the model climate conference to include all schools in Reading Bring the outputs back to the RCAN website Legacy - Supporting the schools to make the changes they committed to on the day, through the RSCAN	50% increase in schools participating in the Model Climate Conference	November 2021	Just ideas	Subject to funding	GREEN	Activity: None Next: Promote conference though marcomms channels
Young Persons Climate Assembly	Explore the potential to set up a Young Persons activist Network – for young people to meet up with like minded individuals regular meetings, Intragram ? Are there any programmes that we could already fit in with? Eg: Youth Council, schools strikes https://www.foeeurope.org/yfoee	Research appetite and develop proposal if appropriate	June 2021	RCAN admin	Must be youth led and with proper safeguarding	AMBER	Activity: Now in contact with youth Council Next: Help to promote their campaigns and vice versa

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/996056/2005-19-local-authority-co2-emissions-statistical-release.pdf

Annual bus statistics: England 2019/20 (publishing.service.gov.uk)

https://www.greenimpact.org.uk/giforhealth