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Hello and welcome to this month's edition of the Devon Climate Emergency newsletter. As we enter the final months of winter we can begin looking forward to the exciting developments we have coming up this Spring!
There are many actions taking place across Devon that are implementing the Interim Devon Carbon Plan. Here are our picks for the month.
The North Devon Biosphere has won £1.37 million from the Community Renewal Fund (CRF) to promote green growth and investment in the area. The money will be used to enhance the 'Green' and the 'Blue' (land and ocean) biospheres through a combination of measures which improve the natural environment, contribute towards net-zero, and create new job and investment opportunities for local residents. This is a flagship opportunity to show how protecting and enhancing the natural environment nurtures healthy, resilient and thriving communities.
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A 'Clean Growth Vision for the West of East Devon' has been created, outlining a remarkable plan for achieving the transition to a net-zero economy. The document identifies five key strategic areas focused on creating healthy, sustainable zero-carbon communities. This document will be used to influence local plans for the area, stimulating clean growth, enhancing nature and improving the health and wellbeing of local communities. It is hoped that this document will inspire other areas to create similar plans, as we work towards net-zero targets.
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The Environment Agency has trialled the use of a low-carbon concrete as part of the Par and St Blazey Flood Alleviation Scheme. This scheme is a net-zero pilot project to trial low carbon construction, as part of the Environment Agency’s commitment to achieving net-zero by 2030. Using low carbon concrete reduced the greenhouse gas emissions of the flood defence wall by 48% - the equivalent of driving 86,0000 miles.
In future, they hope to use an even more environmentally-friendly concrete solution called Cemfree, which gives a 74% carbon reduction.
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Exmouth Town Council have installed two water filling stations to encourage the use of reusable water bottles and discourage single-use plastic. Single-use plastic can have a detrimental effect on natural habitats if not disposed of properly, and is made using fossil fuels. Not only is using a reusable bottle better for the environment, but also potentially saves individuals up to £1380/year in bottled water.
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The Net-Zero Innovation Fund is re-opening for a second round of applications from January 31st. The fund brings together businesses with academic researchers from the University of Plymouth, offering grants of up to £7500 towards the development of innovative products or services designed to reduce carbon emissions.
Previously, the funding resulted in academics collaborating with Devon companies in the following areas:
- developing cost effective ways to improve the efficiency of photovoltaics
- an analysis of different Devon soil types and their suitability in cob building materials
- development of nutritional and therapeutic products from agricultural by-products
- development of innovative and disruptive carbon neutral packaging solutions
- seagrass related research and innovation
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