The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) is increasing its commitment to helping local Government address the climate crisis with an additional £180,000 investment in the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Sustainability Improvement Programme (SIP)
The funding extension will support the initiative until March 2026, bringing CCS’s total contribution to almost £900,000 since the programme began in 2023.
Supporting councils on the journey to net zero
The SIP is designed to help councils across England develop the tools, knowledge, and capacity they need to achieve the Government’s net zero targets. By working with the LGA, CCS aims to ensure that every council has access to practical resources and a robust support network, enabling them to make measurable progress in reducing emissions and enhancing environmental performance.
Since its launch, SIP has had an impressive impact. Three hundred twelve of England’s 317 local authorities have participated in at least one part of the SIP, showing the sector’s shared commitment to climate action. More than 2,900 council officers and staff have attended events and training sessions to boost sustainability expertise in areas such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and carbon management.
Building capability and confidence
A key focus of SIP is building capability across local Government. The SIP offers a diverse range of masterclasses, workshops, and learning events that enhance understanding of sustainability themes and equip officers and councillors with the skills to implement local climate strategies.
So far, 237 participants have completed Sustainability Masterclasses and achieved carbon literacy accreditation, helping to embed climate awareness into decision-making across local authorities. A series of action learning workshops has supported 27 councils, including two sets focusing specifically on sustainable procurement, an area that can significantly influence a council’s carbon footprint.
Accurate data and evidence are essential for effective climate planning. The SIP provides councils with free, standardised tools to help measure and track their emissions. One of the most widely adopted resources is the Greenhouse Gas Accounting Tool, which has been downloaded by 261 councils.
This tool enables authorities to establish consistent baselines for emissions reporting, thereby improving the targeting of their reduction efforts.
The programme has also introduced a waste emissions calculator to help councils identify opportunities to cut carbon from waste management operations.
Strengthening networks and collaboration
Collaboration remains central to the SIP’s success. The programme has established a Sustainability Action Network, which now connects 146 councils through quarterly meetings. These sessions allow councils to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore solutions together.
An online sustainability hub and a monthly sustainability bulletin further help officers stay informed and connected, while dedicated communities of practice provide a space for specialist discussions and peer support.
By continuing to fund the Sustainability Improvement Programme, CCS is reinforcing its role as a key partner in the UK’s collective drive toward net zero and clean energy by 2030. The additional funding ensures that councils have the resources, guidance, and connections needed to accelerate climate action at the local level.
