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Reducing residential carbon intensity: The new role for English local authorities

McEvoy, D.; Gilbs, D. C.; Longhurts, J. W.S.; McEvoy, D. W; Gibbs, D.C.; Longhurst, James

Authors

D. McEvoy

D. C. Gilbs

J. W.S. Longhurts

D. W McEvoy

D.C. Gibbs



Abstract

The residential sector is a substantial source of CO2 in the UK, accounting for over 25 per cent of all end-use emissions. Improvements in energy efficiency are often cited as important elements of carbon reduction packages, with policy-makers emphasising the significant 'untapped' potential of improved energy use in the home. The design and implementation of policies at a local level have a particularly important role to play, recognised by national government in their promotion of the 1995 Home Energy Conservation Act (HECA). The legislation places responsibility on local authorities to act as energy conservation authorities for all dwellings within their boundaries and to devise action plans for a 30 per cent reduction in energy use. Adopting a regional approach, this paper focuses on the HECA strategies of the 10 borough councils of Greater Manchester in the UK, examining the opportunities and constraints that face local authorities in their new role as 'strategic enablers'. Results indicate that greater collaboration, both between and within local authorities, would benefit the overall effectiveness of carbon reduction policies for Greater Manchester.

Citation

Longhurts, J. W., Gilbs, D. C., McEvoy, D., McEvoy, D. W., Gibbs, D., & Longhurst, J. (2001). Reducing residential carbon intensity: The new role for English local authorities. Urban Studies, 38(1), 7-21. https://doi.org/10.1080/00420980123554

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Jan 1, 2001
Journal Urban Studies
Print ISSN 0042-0980
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 38
Issue 1
Pages 7-21
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/00420980123554
Keywords resedential carbon intensity, England, local authorities
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1091581
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00420980123554