Tower Hamlets Council has announced significant progress in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions, revealing a 7% decrease in fleet emissions last year. The achievement comes through the introduction of more efficient vehicles and strategic optimisation of operational routes.
Building on this success, the council has invested in 52 new electric vehicles (EVs) to further reduce emissions and save public funds. The newly acquired EVs are projected to save approximately £343,000 per year on lease costs alone, with further savings expected through reduced fuel and maintenance expenses. The vehicles will be distributed across various council departments to enhance service delivery.
Speaking on the initiative, Cllr Shafi Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Environment and the Climate Emergency, said,
“This investment into electric vehicles and infrastructure demonstrates our commitment to cutting emissions, improving air quality, and ensuring financial efficiency to deliver the best possible service for residents. However, this is just a first step, and we are ambitious – as a council we are working towards having a fully electric fleet supported by extensive charging infrastructure across the borough.”
He emphasized the importance of sustainable investments that would future-proof council services and meet the growing demands of the borough’s rapidly expanding population.
Looking ahead, Tower Hamlets Council plans to expand its electric fleet further, targeting the acquisition of an additional 60 to 70 electric vehicles in a second phase, subject to the success of ongoing funding applications.
The move reflects the council’s broader strategy to address the climate emergency through practical and financially sustainable initiatives, setting a strong example for local authorities across the country.
