Cornwall's schools are leading the way on climate action.

Schools Taking Action

The number of schools calculating their carbon footprint has doubled in the past year. A total of 99 schools have now completed a carbon calculation.

Schools across Cornwall have used the Eco-Schools Count Your Carbon tool to do this. The results help schools understand their emissions, reduce energy use, and identify changes that can save thousands of pounds each year.

By calculating their carbon footprint, schools gain a clear picture of where their emissions come from, including:

• Energy use
• Travel and transport
• Food and catering
• Waste
• Water consumption

The results help schools identify where they can make the biggest difference. Schools can then use this information to create or strengthen their Climate Action Plans and focus on actions that have the greatest impact.

Many schools are already using their carbon data to:

• Reduce energy consumption
• Upgrade lighting
• Improve heating systems
• Install insulation
• Reduce waste
• Encourage sustainable travel

These actions help schools become more environmentally friendly while also reducing running costs. At a time when school budgets are under pressure, saving money on energy and resources means more funding can be spent on supporting pupils and improving school facilities.

Across Cornwall, staff and pupils are working together to reduce emissions and build a more sustainable future. Many schools are also using real-world environmental data to support learning and help young people develop the knowledge and skills they need for the future.

An Keep Britain Tidy representative praised Cornwall's achievement, saying:

"Reaching 99 schools that have completed their carbon calculation is a fantastic achievement. Cornwall is one of the leading counties in the country for school participation in carbon measurement. We are delighted to see so many schools taking this important first step towards reducing their environmental impact."

The Count Your Carbon tool is the UK's first free carbon calculator made for schools. It helps schools understand where their emissions come from and what they can do to reduce them.

Schools that have not yet completed a carbon calculation can still get involved. The process is free and can help schools understand their emissions, cut energy use and identify savings. It also provides a strong starting point for creating or updating a Climate Action Plan.

Schools do not have to do this alone. Free help is available from the Eco-Education Project Manager at climate.education@cornwall.gov.uk who will connect you with a climate adviser. Schools can also get help from their local South West Let's Go Zero Advisor.

Cornwall Council, and Let's Go Zero are working together to help schools measure their carbon and write a Climate Action Plan. This support is free.