MANCHESTER’S ANNUAL EMISSIONS REPORT 2023

Manchester's latest Emissions Report shows that whilst progress is being made, as a city, we are not currently on track to reach our zero carbon target. We urgently need to see a step change in the pace and scale of climate action at all levels.

The latest data on Manchester’s direct, energy-related emissions shows that the city’s carbon emissions rose by 7% in 2021, an uplift that is also seen in the national emissions data and reflects an increase in activity as COVID-19 restrictions were eased across the country. Since 2018, when Manchester’s science-based carbon budget of 15 million tonnes of CO2 (m tCO2) was set, the city’s direct emissions have reached 9.54m tCO2. This is almost two-thirds (63%) of the total carbon budget that is intended to transition Manchester to a zero carbon city by 2038, at the latest, and which gives significant cause for concern.

Since 2005, positive progress can be seen as Manchester’s emissions have fallen by 44%. This downward trajectory has been driven by the introduction of more renewable energy into the national grid as well as by positive local action. In the same timeline, Manchester has significantly upped its climate game, making bold climate commitments, working collaboratively to deliver action, and reporting transparently on the progress being made. The city is now recognised by CDP as a climate change leader alongside global cities like Paris, New York and Tokyo. But it’s clear we need to do more.

Read the full report and our previous emissions report here.