Net zero means cutting carbon emissions to a level where they can either be absorbed and stored by nature or other removal measures.
Our primary focus is on carbon dioxide (CO₂), but our city-wide approach also tackles emissions from other greenhouse gases.
To do so we must reduce emissions from all production and consumption processes. This means supporting everyone to move away from our current fossil fuel dependent lifestyles.
The Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GPC) divides emissions into three types, which it calls scopes.
Our net zero target relates to scope 1 and scope 2 emissions. Newcastle City Council is adopting a consumption-based approach to address scope 3 emissions.
Scope 1 - Direct emissions
Emissions from sources located within the Newcastle local authority boundary.
For example:
Scope 2 - Energy indirect emissions
Emissions occurring in Newcastle due to the use of grid supplied energy, including:
Scope 3 – Other indirect emissions
Emissions that occur outside Newcastle’s boundary as a result of activities in the city, such as consumer activities outside the control of the city.
We have reported to the Carbon Disclosure Project for the past four years. Each year we have received an A rating.
For more information see cities scores on the Carbon Disclosure Project.