Priorities
The council’s commitment to sustainability is set out in the Environmental Strategy which identifies eight priority areas and is supported by the Council’s Environmental Action Plan, to drive delivery.
Priority 1 Reducing the council's environmental impact
Energy costs are going up, so it’s important to find ways to save money. We have already made some changes, like using low energy lights and adding better insulation to buildings, and we will keep making improvements.
We have also put solar panels on some libraries, schools, County Farms and Enterprise Centres and are looking for more places where we can install them.
Useful links
Priority 2 Adapting to impactful weather
Staffordshire is having more impactful weather. This can cause problems for our services, local communities and wildlife.
The council looks after many of the county’s natural areas and buildings. We are taking action to manage the effects of impactful weather, helping to keep people safe and our wildlife thriving
The Met Office has lots of simple, helpful advice for staying safe during bad weather. You can visit their website to learn more and register to be told about weather warnings.
Useful links
-
Document
- Flood risk management
- Business continuity planning for adult social care providers
- Adapting your business to Impactful weather
- Preparing for impactful weather
Priority 3 Supporting economic growth
Staffordshire can have a bright future if we make the most of new chances.
By supporting growth that is good for the environment, the Council can help create new jobs, attract new businesses and support fresh ideas.
This will also help us look after our environment, so it stays clean and healthy for everyone in the future.
Useful links
Priority 4 Supporting local nature recovery
A healthy natural environment is very important for Staffordshire.
It helps our economy, shapes what our county is like, and makes it a great place for people to live in and enjoy visiting.
The Council looks after many of Staffordshire’s important natural places. Because of this, we have a key role in helping nature recover and stop further damage across the county.
Useful links
Priority 5 Minimising waste
Waste puts pressure on the environment, and it also costs the Council a lot of money to get rid of our household rubbish.
Buying less saves us money and by reusing, repairing and recycling more, we can save important resources.
When we reduce what we throw away, the Council spends less on waste disposal, which means that money can be used to better support our communities.
Useful links
Priority 6 Affordable, reliable energy
Energy efficiency is getting more important as energy prices rise, using less energy helps reduce household bills. You can start making your home more energy efficient with small, everyday actions, and over time you can add simple upgrades to make your home warmer and cheaper to run.
As more homes and businesses move from using gas and oil to electricity, we will need more electricity in the future putting pressure on the national grid.
When we make more of our own power locally, it takes pressure off the national grid. The Council wants to see more solar panels on buildings and on suitable brownfield sites across Staffordshire. Using rooftop solar panels is a simple way for communities to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy without needing large solar farms and supports a cleaner and stronger local energy system.
We will keep working with partners to improve local energy networks, and ask the government for a more joined up approach to future energy generation.
Useful links
Priority 7 Multi modal transport
Staffordshire’s transport network is very important because it helps people get to jobs, schools, healthcare and places for fun.
A multimodal transport system means having different ways to travel, like walking, cycling, taking the bus or train, or using a car. This gives people more choice and helps everyone travel in ways that are easier and better connected.
To meet future needs, we are encouraging travel options that give residents and businesses reliable and convenient ways to get around.
Useful links
Priority 8 Environmental Partnership working
We work closely with colleagues, local businesses, community and voluntary groups and other public services. By sharing our skills and resources and encouraging new ideas, we can create lasting benefits across the county.
If your community group is working on an environmental project and would like to showcase it, we’d love to hear from you at sustainability@staffordshire.gov.uk
