READING has made the A-list in an international league which recognises towns and cities who are open about carbon impact and proactive on addressing climate concerns.
The Carbon Disclosure Project is a global non-profit organisation which holds the world’s most comprehensive data on how companies, cities, states and regions measure, understand and address their environmental impacts.
Reading has made the list of A-graded towns and cities in the league for the fourth year in a row, joining fewer than 120 locations around the world.
It made the list alongside the likes of Barcelona, Spain; Bienos Aires, Argentina; and Sydney, Australia, in recognition of public disclosure a town-wide emissions inventory, publishing a climate action plan, and providing evidence of climate actions taken and their impact.
It follows the University of Reading being named Sustainable University of the Year by The Times and No1 in the People & Planet University League Table.
Last year, Reading Central and Abbey Quarter Business Improvement Districts (BID) recycled 336 tonnes of cardboard–an increase of 38% on the previous year, and six tonnes of waste from electrical and electronic equipment last year.
The announcement also comes just days before the Reading Climate Festival is due to start, which will include the launch of the consultation on the Reading Climate Emergency Plan for 2025-30.
Councillor John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said: “It is an outstanding achievement for Reading to be in the CDP ’A’ list for the fourth year running.
“For Reading to be up there with the big cities of the world is a testament to the town’s long-standing commitment to reducing carbon emissions and taking climate action.
“Reading’s carbon emissions have fallen by 54% in 20 years and the Council has cut its own emissions by 73% since 2008/9, but there is still much to do.
“The council will continue to work with partners and with Reading residents to make a significant positive difference to our environment.”
More information about Reading Climate Festival is available via: readingcan.org.uk/festival25
More information about the Carbon Disclosure Project is available via: cdp.net
