A new report reveals New Forest District Council's efforts to combat climate change.

The report, covering the period from January 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, shows a two per cent reduction in emissions across the council and district.

This was achieved through various projects, including a new community energy programme and a digital resident feedback platform aimed at reducing the carbon resource impact.

New sustainable toilets have also been installed at Barton Beach. Other initiatives focus on nature recovery, such as a behavioural insights litter programme and swift boxes installed during housing upgrades.

A new wildflower meadow and woodland have been planted at Fawley Fields. The report also outlines the council's future plans to further its climate goals.

These include providing carbon literacy training for staff, helping residents reduce fuel costs, and working with town and parish councils to protect and enhance the local environment.

Efforts to manage the risks from coastal erosion will also continue. A new member task and finish group will be created in autumn 2024 to help form a broader long-term strategy.

The council's climate actions centre around four key areas: carbon reduction, climate adaptation, nature recovery, and programme management.

The report serves as a record of the council's ongoing efforts to lessen its environmental impact and prepare the district for the challenges and opportunities brought by climate change.

Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, said: "I’m pleased to see some real progress reflected in this year’s report, particularly the decrease in carbon emissions. However, we recognise that there is still more that we can do.

"In 2021, we declared a Climate Change and Nature Emergency, which demands sustained action, and we remain fully committed to working with our staff, communities, and partners to making the changes needed to reach both our, and the government’s, climate aims."

The council's full report for 2023/2024 can be found on the New Forest District Council's website.