Elected Member Carbon Essentials (webinar)

This one-hour interactive webinar introduces the essentials of carbon footprints and emissions reduction. Designed for elected members, it combines clear guidance with practical examples to help you understand where emissions come from, spot key hotspots, and take your first steps towards measuring, tracking, and reducing carbon.

By the end of the session, elected members will:

• Understand what a carbon footprint is and how it is calculated in the context of local government operations and community emissions.
• Recognise the main sources of carbon emissions within council services, supply chains, and local areas.
• Differentiate between Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions — and understand their significance for council reporting and decision-making.
• Identify key carbon hotspots within their authority’s activities and areas of influence.
• Explore practical ways councils can measure, monitor, and communicate emissions progress.
• Examine realistic strategies for reducing emissions through policy, procurement, and community engagement.
• Understand the challenges and opportunities of carbon reduction, including finance, behaviour change, partnership working, and the risks of greenwashing.
• Gain confidence to support and champion effective, evidence-based climate action at council and community level.

Who should attend?

This session is designed specifically for elected members who want to strengthen their understanding of carbon and climate issues.
Whether you’re setting strategic direction, approving budgets, scrutinising performance, or representing your community, you’ll gain the insight and confidence to make informed, impactful decisions that support your council’s journey to net zero.

All sessions are available online and in person.
Please visit our events page for upcoming dates or contact us to discuss bespoke training options for your council.

Contact: info@sustainableni.org