Environmental Strategies & Reports

The Council has published numerous reports and strategies relating directly to the sustainability agenda and biodiversity. PDFs of all the mentioned documents, or links to their webpage, are available at the bottom of this page.

Sustainability Strategy

The Sustainability Strategy sets out the priority actions of how the Council is endeavouring to minimise the impact of its activities in the period up to 2017. It also includes an objective to reduce the Council’s carbon dioxide emissions.

Climate Local Commitment

The Council signed up to the Climate Local commitment in December 2012. This replaces the Nottingham Declaration and re-affirms the Council’s intention to take action in a changing climate. A copy of the signed commitment is provided below. The Sustainability Strategy provides a mechanism to delivering on this commitment.

Biodiversity Action Plan

This is the Local Biodiversity Action Plan (the BAP) for Test Valley. It is a working document that provides a framework for the maintenance and enhancement of the biodiversity of the Borough and has been prepared in accordance with planning regulations.

It has been published by Test Valley Borough Council and was written in conjunction with the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The BAP also has the support of the Environment Group representing the Borough’s Local Strategic Partnership, a group of stakeholders with a special remit for developing environmental activities as part of the Borough’s Community Strategy.

Travel Plan

The Council has prepared a Travel Plan, which is a long term management strategy for the Council’s travel. Further information in developing a Travel Plan for your business or organisation and community information available on the benefits they offer and the support, can be found on our travel planning webpage (link below).

Sustainable Living

Everyone can make a contribution to reducing our impact on the environment. The Council has produced a sustainable living leaflet which provides some useful contacts and websites, as well as some introductory tips.

If you are interested in buying a water butt or compost bin, the Council and Hampshire County Council are working with Straight to provide an offer at the moment – more information can be found in the Waste and Recycling section of the website.

Greenhouse Gas Emission Reports

One of Central Government’s data requirements relates to greenhouse gas emissions from local authority estates and operations. The monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions is wider than just carbon dioxide; therefore the figures set out cannot be compared to previous reports on carbon dioxide emissions. Reports are prepared annually and are based on guidance from DEFRA.

Home Energy Conservation Act (HECA) Report

Test Valley has published its HECA Report and Action Plan, which were approved in spring 2013. This focuses on priorities for action in the first year to help improve the energy efficiency of all residential accommodation within the Borough. A link to the report and action plan is available below.