Climate Department Publishes Baseline Emissions and Reduction Targets

The Climate Department of the Velocity Interoperability Network today published the Network's first emissions inventory and the reduction targets that will apply to every department and member organisation. The baseline covers the twelve months to 31 August 2026 and was compiled from returns supplied by 47 member organisations during the transition period from 10 August to 5 September 2026. Emissions in the baseline period were 184,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Purchased electricity and heat account for 68,900 tonnes, or 37 per cent of the total; fuel burned at Network sites and in fleet vehicles for 41,300 tonnes; and business travel, freight, purchased goods and services, waste and commuting for the remaining 74,400 tonnes. Central Exchange, the largest of the six principal sites, accounts for 48,200 tonnes, and Westbrook Distribution Site, with the Network's largest vehicle fleet, for 34,100 tonnes.

Against this baseline the Department has set targets to reduce emissions by 15 per cent by 2028, 35 per cent by 2030 and 60 per cent by 2035, and to reach net zero by 2040. Interim targets for electricity supply, fleet vehicles, building heating, business travel and waste are set out on the Targets page of this site, and the full inventory on the Emissions Inventory page. Progress will be reported quarterly, beginning with the quarter ending 30 September 2026.