BRIGHTON has more work to do in cutting carbon emissions to meet the Government’s zero emissions target, according to a think tank.

Although a recent report by Centre for Cities found that Brighton produces less emissions per resident than the average British urban area, two-thirds of the city’s homes fall below modern energy efficacy standards and transport emissions are higher than those in nearby Worthing.

Andrew Carter, chief executive for Centre for Cities, said: “Cutting emissions from homes and cars could get the city well on the way to net zero. That means retrofitting homes, encouraging more people to ditch their cars and, if they must drive, helping them to switch to electric vehicles.”

The report calls on the Government to phase out petrol and diesel cars by the end of the decade, grant more powers to local councils to ensure transport and housing are integrated in a coordinated strategy, and reintroduce and extend the Green Homes Grant.

Whilst council leader Phélim Mac Cafferty said he would welcome more powers being devolved to tackle the climate crisis, it needs to go “hand in hand” with greater financial support to fund the projects to make a difference.

“There is still no fund to support councils to deliver climate action,” he added.

Whilst central government will need to take the lead on cutting emissions, the report said councils can all play their part through disincentivising car usage, investing in travel infrastructure and imposing higher standards on energy efficiency.

Mr Mac Cafferty stressed the council’s determination to make the city carbon neutral by 2030, with measures including a project to retrofit council houses with renewable energy, decarbonising its fleet of 400 vehicles and minimising traffic and air pollution outside of schools in the city.

“Looking ahead, we are considering options for creating a more attractive and vibrant city centre by placing restrictions on vehicle access, with exemptions,” he added.

“We are also improving the conditions for sustainable journeys by making major investment in walking and cycling infrastructure.”

The Government committed in 2019 to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. As well as reducing the amount of emissions produced, reaching the target will also include measures to offset emissions, such as carbon capture and storage and planting trees.