Moray Council has reported a 7.7% reduction in its carbon emissions over the past year, reflecting strong progress against its Routemap to Net Zero and Climate Change Plan for 2024/25.

The latest update, presented to the Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee on 10 March, details a series of achievements across the organisation. Energy consumption across council buildings decreased by 4%, while new solar PV installations at four sites generated more than 53,000 kWh of renewable electricity.

The council also introduced six electric pool cars and added nine new EV charging points, reducing emissions by around 11.5 tonnes annually and cutting maintenance costs by 75%. There were significant reductions in the use of fuel oil and gas for heating, alongside continued progress on climate adaptation and biodiversity initiatives, and efforts to secure external funding.

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Despite the gains, the report highlights that emissions in the council's highest-emitting areas — buildings and fleet — have remained relatively static, emphasising the need for external finance to accelerate essential decarbonisation projects.

Work is under way on a revised Climate Change Strategy, due to be presented to Council in May 2026. It will introduce carbon budgets aligned with Scottish Government targets and set out a clearer long-term pathway to net zero by 2045.

Commenting on the report, committee chair Cllr Marc Macrae said: "This year's progress shows the difference that focused action can make. A 7.7% reduction in emissions is a real achievement, especially during a period of financial pressure and high service demand. But we know there is much more to do. Our biggest challenges lie in the areas that matter most, our buildings, our fleet, and preparing our communities for the impacts of a changing climate. The next phase of work, including new carbon budgets and major funding bids, will be crucial in keeping us on track for net zero. I'd like to thank all the teams involved for their ongoing dedication."