Rushmoor Borough Council has published its Climate Change Annual Report for 2025/26 in support of its commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable borough.
The annual report sets out progress made against the council’s Climate Change Action Plan and outlines the positive impacts of key projects delivered throughout the year.
Among the initiatives highlighted, is the council’s Youth Climate Ambassadors scheme (YCA) to strengthen young people’s involvement in local climate action. Eleven representatives from local secondary schools and colleges have taken part in monthly sessions throughout the academic year and also planned a climate art competition as part of the Rushmoor Eco Festival. Sixteen children from Wavell School also took part in the council's first ever Youth Climate Debate.
The council's Rushmoor Climate Community Group met three times during the year, coming together to discuss environmental issues and hear from other residents and community groups. A monthly update was also introduced, helping to keep residents informed about climate projects, volunteering opportunities, grants and energy saving advice.
The highlight of the year has been the annual Rushmoor Eco Festival held at the West End Centre in Aldershot. The event was bigger and better than ever with 17 stallholders attending and representing local greenspace groups, charities and local businesses. The popular event offered family activities, competitions and workshops all with an environmental focus, as well as locally made and sustainable products.
From August this year, Climate Change Impact Assessments have become a requirement for the council's Cabinet decision reports to ensure that the climate and environmental impacts of major projects are considered as part of the council's decision-making process.
The report also highlights the positive progress made towards reducing the council's carbon footprint contributing to improvements in the council's Climate Action Scorecard performance. Rushmoor's overall score has increased from 21% in 2023 to 31% in 2025 representing significant improvement.
Councillor Sophie Porter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities and Active Lives at Rushmoor Borough Council said: "We are committed to creating a greener and more sustainable borough and we are really pleased with the progress that has been made. So much has been achieved in the last 12 months and it has been a pleasure to see so many local people attending events such as the Rushmoor Eco Festival and our regular Rushmoor Climate Community meetings."
Councillor Porter added: "I'm particularly proud that we have been able to give young people a stronger voice on this important issue through the Youth Climate Ambassador scheme, and the council's first ever Youth Climate Debate."
For further information, go to our Climate change in Rushmoor pages.
Contact us