Place directors in ADEPT have launched a 'first-of-its-kind' programme, with the support of the Department for Transport, to give English local highway authorities the funds to measure and reduce their carbon emissions.
Available from this month, the Carbon Leadership Programme consists of two modules: a standardised baseline carbon assessment and a best practice carbon assessment module.
Additionally, it will create 'a collaborative, knowledge sharing platform and data resource' that will accelerate sector wide carbon reduction efforts, ADEPT said.
The concept has evolved following research undertaken by Proving Services on behalf of the Future Highways Research Group (FHRG) and was further refined through the Live Labs 2 programme.
Highways understands DfT is funding the project, which will take place over several years.
The future of roads minister, Lilian Greenwood, said: 'We're supporting ADEPT's Carbon Leadership Programme to equip local highways authorities with the tools they need to accelerate the sector's transition to net zero.'
Angela Jones, ADEPT's new president, said: 'The Carbon Leadership Programme represents a significant milestone for local highway authorities in their journey towards net zero. For too long, the sector has lacked the standardised tools needed to accurately measure and tackle carbon emissions from road maintenance activities.
'This programme finally provides that missing piece of the puzzle - giving our members practical, evidence-based methods to understand their carbon footprint and take action to reduce it.
'ADEPT is proud to partner with Proving Services and the DfT to deliver this game changing initiative that will help shape the future of sustainable highways management.'
Simon Wilson, director of Proving Services, said: 'The Carbon Leadership Programme is an important next step of the research work of the FHRG.
'A national carbon audit and best practice assessment will enable the sector to benchmark and plan low carbon futures and support DfT in targeting funding on the most successful initiatives.'
The aim is for all local highway authorities across England to join.
You can find more information and register for webinars on the subject here:
