Camden: Council spearheads sustainability drive in the borough's schools

Camden Council has undertaken a drive to improve schools in the area, according to new findings.

Research published by the local authority revealed that efficiency works to Camden’s schools during the past year will lead to 650 tonnes of carbon dioxide being cut annually across the borough.

It claimed that the last 12 months, eight primary and two secondary schools have had works, which have helped to improve their energy efficiency. 

The council said that this would result in a 27 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2017. The funding for the project comes from the Community Investment Programme (CIP).

Commenting on the scheme, councillor Angela Mason OBE, cabinet member for Young Children said that the works will have a major impact on reducing carbon emissions.

She added: "Thanks to the works each year we’ll be cutting carbon dioxide equivalent to driving almost four million miles in a school bus, a phenomenal saving and one which will help us towards cutting emissions in the borough.” 

Some £117 million will be invested into 53 schools and children’s centres in the run-up to 2016. This includes an ambitious energy efficiency project in 2014, involving at least nine primary schools and eight children’s centres. 

The works included installing energy efficient lighting, new heating control systems and insulation. In addition, new boilers have been installed at the school, upgrading classrooms and fitting new windows.

Councillor Phil Jones, cabinet member for Sustainability, Transport, and Planning explained that the works will help Camden schools to lead the way in boosting sustainability in the borough.

He added: "The sustainability improvements to schools are part of the pioneering work we are doing to cut carbon emissions in the borough, including installing insulation in our homes, providing low carbon energy supply through combined heat and power, and promoting active travel."

Published 10th April, 2014

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