What is the DESNZ Emissions Report?
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) publishes annual data showing carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions for every UK local authority, including Tunbridge Wells. This helps us track progress towards our Net Zero goals and understand where emissions come from locally.
Why is the Data Two Years Behind?
The latest report (published in 2025) covers emissions from 2023. This delay happens because:
- Data comes from national energy and transport statistics, which take time to collect and verify.
- Figures are then modelled and allocated to each council area based on factors like energy use, traffic patterns, and business activity.
- This ensures accuracy and consistency across the UK.
Where Do Tunbridge Wells' Figures Come From?
DESNZ uses national datasets and applies local modelling to estimate emissions for our borough. Sources include:
- Gas and electricity consumption in homes and businesses.
- Road traffic fuel use for cars, vans, and HGVs.
- Industrial and commercial activity.
- Smaller contributions from agriculture and waste.
Emissions by Sector in Tunbridge Wells
The report breaks down emissions into:
- Domestic – Energy used in homes.
- Transport – Road traffic within the borough.
- Industry & Commercial – Businesses and industrial sites.
- Public Sector – Schools, hospitals, council buildings.
- LULUCF – Land use and land use change & forestry (our green spaces).
- Agriculture – Livestock and land management.
- Waste – Landfills and recycling.
Tracking emissions is essential for:
- Measuring progress against our Borough Climate Change Strategy.
- Identifying priority areas for reducing emissions.
- Working with residents and businesses to achieve Net Zero.
