Our sustainability priorities and progress

We want to provide a safe, clean and attractive borough, reduce our energy consumption and promote sustainability.

Find out about our aims and achievements and view our sustainability policies.

What is sustainability?

Installed photovoltaic panels on some council buildings, saving approximately 90 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually
Replaced old, inefficient boilers in our housing stock with 340 'A' rated condensing boilers
Increased the waste recycling rate
Updated crematorium facilities with new cremators, saving costs and reducing the impact on the environment
Achieved Green Flag (opens new window) status for Guildford's parks and green spaces
Achieved Purple Flag (opens new window) status for town centre management at night
Completed Onslow Park and Ride facility
Introduced a Green Scheme, allowing electric vehicle owners to receive discounted parking in car parks
Created the Guildford Hydro project
Built new council homes with solar photovoltaic panels
Installed over 150 air source heat pumps in our housing stock
Set out a Local Plan to make Guildford borough fit for future generations

Climate Emergency Declaration
Setting up climate change fund to deliver more ambitious carbon reductions in line with commitments
Developing a long term Transport Strategy
Aiming for 70% recycling of household waste
Looking to maximise the generation of our own clean energy

For more information on our sustainability progress and plans, read our Corporate Strategy 2024-2034

We are committed to building sustainability into all our decision-making processes.