Since 2019, when we first declared a climate emergency, we have been working on a number projects to mitigate and adapt to climate change in Colchester. These are just a few of the many projects we have been working on.
Reducing carbon emissions from council buildings
The council is upgrading its buildings to improve energy efficiency, cut emissions and lower running costs. This includes:
- Installing pool covers and smart motors at Leisure World to reduce heat loss
- Installing a water filtration system at Leisure World to reduce water and energy use
- Conducting energy efficiency audits across council buildings to identify further savings, such as improved metering and LED lighting upgrades
Producing and using more renewable energy
We are focusing on increasing renewable energy generation on our buildings and land. Projects are underway to assess the feasibility of:
- Solar photovoltaic systems on car parks
- Heat networks
- Heat pumps for buildings
Enhancing biodiversity, protecting nature and creating greener, more resilient outdoor spaces
Local Nature Recovery Strategy
Essex County Council has created a plan to protect wildlife and promote nature recovery across the county. Launched in September 2025, the Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy is designed to reverse the decline in habitats and species.
It supports communities, landowners, farmers and organisations to work together to create bigger, better and more connected spaces for nature.
You can find out more on the Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy website.
Our local work
Our teams have been working with communities across Colchester to:
- Create ‘no mow’ areas to encourage biodiversity for bugs, bees and butterflies
- Minimise the use of glyphosate to protect habitats
- Improve outdoor environments to reduce flood risk using sustainable drainage systems
- Develop policies to expand strategic green spaces, waterways and open space networks
Download our Biodiversity Duty Report (PDF).
Supporting active travel and improving air quality
Colchester promotes cleaner ways of travelling, including projects linked to:
- Walking infrastructure
- Cycling infrastructure
- Air quality improvements
You can find out more about Sustainable and Active Travel and our Clean Air projects
Waste reduction, recycling and the circular economy
The council supports projects that help residents reduce waste through:
- Improved recycling services
- Support for reuse and waste reduction initiatives
Climate adaptation projects
Colchester City Council is preparing the city for climate impacts such as heatwaves and flooding by:
- Assessing climate risks, particularly heat and flooding
- Promoting adaptation measures for homes, businesses and landscapes
Sustainable planning and net zero new homes
Through the Local Plan and planning policies, the council promotes:
- Net zero homes and buildings
- Renewable energy integration
- Water efficiency
The Local Plan provides more information on planning policies and their influence on future housing and development across the city.
Community energy
Community energy allows people and communities to take control of their energy future by generating, using, owning and saving energy locally, while working together regionally and nationally.
You can find out more about what is happening in your area on the Community Energy England website.
Working with communities and partner organisations
The council collaborates with local groups, businesses and regional partners to:
- Deliver environmental projects
- Support residents to reduce emissions
- Provide community guidance and training
If you would like support or advice on any of these subjects, contact sustainability.team@colchester.gov.uk.
Reporting progress and public engagement
Colchester regularly publishes:
- Progress updates on climate action
- Annual emissions reduction reports
- Achievements from local environmental projects
You can sign up to receive updates on sustainability projects and information.
We also produce annual reports, which you can find here.