This plan sets out what Falkirk Council will do between 2025 and 2027 to cut emissions, improve access to sustainable living options, and improve local environments. It explains what actions we will take, why they matter, who is responsible, and when they will be delivered.

We will audit pedestrian wait times at all signalised crossings and reduce wait times to under 30 seconds in the busiest areas.

This matters because shorter waiting times make walking safer and more convenient.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Network
• Roads Design
• Transport Planning
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is November 2026.

We will create a framework to ensure that walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure is included in every road redesign or new road project. 

This matters because good active travel routes make it easier and safer for people to leave the car at home.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Energy & Climate Change
• Sustainable Transport
• Roads Design

The delivery date for this work is June 2026.

We will update road design templates so that all new intersections include safe space for cyclists wherever possible. 

This matters because safer junctions encourage more cycling. 

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Design
• Sustainable Transport
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will install 10 new bike maintenance stations in busy areas.

This matters because easier access to tools keeps people cycling regularly.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Energy & Climate Change
• Sustainable Transport

The delivery date for this work is October 2026.

We will use a new accessibility checklist during all planned road maintenance.

This matters because it ensures walking routes remain safe and accessible.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Maintenance
• Roads Design
• Sustainable Transport

The delivery date for this work is September 2026.

We will run 10 training and maintenance workshops in schools and communities.

This matters because it helps people build confidence to cycle more often.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Energy & Climate Change
• Sustainable Transport

The delivery date for this work is September 2026.

We will plan cycleways that follow direct routes and allow mid‑route connections.

This matters because direct routes encourage more everyday cycling.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Design
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is November 2026.

We will audit active travel access and create an improvement plan with at least three deliverable upgrades.

This matters because better access makes walking, cycling and public transport easier to combine.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Sustainable Transport
• Invest Falkirk
• Roads Design

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will upgrade 10 shelters with Real‑Time Information, seating and route maps.

This matters because better stops make bus travel more reliable and comfortable.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Design
• Transport Planning

The delivery date for this work is April 2027.

We will study routes and identify where improvements are most needed, and develop a funding plan.

This matters because it supports better access to essential services and sustainable travel.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Transport Planning
• Roads Design
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is December 2027.

We will work with bus operators to assess feasibility and develop pilot proposals.

This matters because bike‑and‑ride options extend travel choices.

The Energy & Climate Change team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is August 2027.

We will update planning guidance so all new developments include paths, cycleways and public transport links.

This matters because it makes sustainable travel the default option.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Planning
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will ensure LDP3 supports sustainable transport and the Strategic Transport Assessment.

This matters because it ensures new development supports climate goals.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Planning
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is October 2026.

We will introduce 20mph limits in the remaining 29 settlements and monitor compliance.

This matters because slower speeds improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Network
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will introduce enforcement in designated areas with regular monitoring.

This matters because it keeps pavements safe and accessible.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Roads Network
• Transport Planning

The delivery date for this work is February 2026.

We will review guidance and make information easier for businesses to access.

This matters because it helps employers support low‑carbon commuting.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Energy & Climate Change
• Sustainable Transport

The delivery date for this work is June 2026.

We will deliver training so staff understand CEAP goals and their responsibilities.

This matters because it ensures consistent delivery across teams.

The Energy & Climate Change team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is August 2026.

We will create a policy requiring low‑carbon materials, cycle paths in new roads, and safe detours during construction.

This matters because it reduces emissions and keeps routes accessible.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Energy & Climate Change
• Roads Design

The delivery date for this work is April 2026.

We will work with teams across the council to embed climate goals in all strategies.

This matters because it reduces duplication and ensures consistent progress.

The Energy & Climate Change team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is January 2026 and ongoing.

• Review school transport programmes
• Audit EV charging, bike parking and facilities in schools
• Review how pupils travel to school
• Improve public transport information in schools
• Open school EV chargers to staff and visitors

We will identify gaps and improve school transport policies.

This matters because it ensures pupils can travel safely and sustainably.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Education
• Sustainable Transport

The delivery date for this work is June 2026.

We will review existing facilities and develop a plan to improve them.

This matters because it supports pupils and staff to travel actively or by electric vehicle.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Education
• Energy & Climate Change

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will analyse travel data to understand barriers and opportunities.

This matters because it helps schools promote safer and more sustainable travel choices.

The responsible teams for delivering this action are:

• Education
• Sustainable Transport

The delivery date for this work is March 2027.

We will help schools display bus timetables and Young Scot card information.

This matters because it supports pupils to use public transport confidently.

The Education Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2026.

We will develop a plan to allow wider access to school charging points.

This matters because it makes it easier for staff to use electric vehicles.

The Facilities Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will review feasibility for a local heat network.

This matters because low‑carbon heating reduces emissions and energy costs.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is February 2026.

We will check the feasibility of installing individual meters.

This matters because it supports fair and efficient billing in future heat network plans.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is April 2026.

We will explore opportunities with energy providers.

This matters because it enables large‑scale low‑carbon heating projects.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2026.

We will issue an Expression of Interest to private companies.

This matters because it helps expand the use of renewable energy across council buildings.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is September 2026.

We will provide clear feedback on challenges to meeting net zero.

This matters because identifying funding gaps supports long‑term climate action planning.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2026.

We will share case studies and promote funding opportunities such as ECO4 Flex.

This matters because it helps residents and organisations understand ways to reduce energy use and costs.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is February 2026.

We will hold local events about ECO4 Flex, ECO and the Area‑Based Scheme.

This matters because community engagement increases uptake in energy‑saving programmes.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is January 2026.

We will provide support for eligible households to improve energy efficiency.

This matters because improving energy efficiency reduces emissions and helps lower household bills.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is April 2026.

We will bring together housing providers, energy companies and council teams.

This matters because collaboration strengthens delivery of local energy projects.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2025.

We will provide targeted training on heat pumps, solar PV and heat networks.

This matters because skilled staff can better support residents and renewable projects.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2027.

We will develop training pathways in solar and heat pump maintenance.

This matters because apprenticeships help build a skilled local workforce for the future.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will set standards for low‑carbon materials and heating in new council builds.

This matters because sustainable construction reduces emissions over the long term.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2026.

We will compare installation costs with long‑term savings.

This matters because understanding costs and benefits supports smarter investment decisions.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2026.

We will seek funding to retrofit owner‑occupied homes.

This matters because retrofitting improves energy efficiency across local housing.

The Asset & Investment Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2026.

We will track national and regional funding opportunities.

This matters because securing funding enables more energy projects to be delivered.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2026.

We will create a 13‑year plan for upgrades to meet the 2038 net zero target.

This matters because long‑term planning is essential for meeting climate commitments.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will ensure energy, housing and building strategies reflect CEAP goals.

This matters because alignment ensures climate goals are consistently embedded across the council.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is November 2025.

• Document procurement teams and contracts
• Record emissions for Category C contracts
• Apply sustainability criteria to Category C contracts
• Apply the Scottish Government's sustainability test
• Add climate requirements to Energy & Climate tenders
• Embed CEAP actions across all strategies
• Create a net zero procurement roadmap
• Create an annual communications plan
• Promote external net zero training for suppliers
• Deliver sustainable procurement training
• Reduce waste in school procurement

We will create a full overview covering 95% of procurement activity.

This matters because understanding procurement activity supports better planning and delivery.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will track emissions from all Category C procurement.

This matters because measuring emissions helps identify opportunities to reduce environmental impact.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will include sustainability criteria in at least 50% of contracts.

This matters because adding sustainability requirements encourages suppliers to adopt greener practices.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will apply the sustainability test to 50% of tendered Category C contracts.

This matters because these tests help assess environmental and social impacts.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will include climate weighting in all relevant tenders.

This matters because it ensures climate goals are built into procurement decisions.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is November 2025.

We will ensure CEAP goals are included in every relevant council strategy.

This matters because embedding climate goals across strategies ensures consistent progress.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is Ongoing.

We will develop milestones, supplier requirements and training to support net zero goals.

This matters because a clear roadmap guides long‑term supplier engagement and climate action.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is November 2026.

We will share at least 5 case studies each year on sustainable procurement.

This matters because sharing good practice encourages wider adoption among suppliers and staff.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is June 2026.

We will review and signpost suitable training resources.

This matters because supporting suppliers’ learning accelerates progress toward net zero.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is August 2026.

We will train 70% of managers of contracts over £500,000.

This matters because well‑trained staff can deliver procurement that aligns with climate goals.

The Procurement Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will review contracts and introduce zero‑waste targets.

This matters because reducing waste helps cut emissions and supports sustainability.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

• Reduce fleet emissions
• Explore hydrogen fuel cell truck trials
• Optimise waste collection routes
• Install solar at recycling centres
• Reduce single-use plastics across council facilities
• Improve recycling facilities in council buildings
• Align waste strategies with CEAP

We will use HVO fuel where possible and create a plan to trial hydrogen vehicles.

This matters because lowering fleet emissions supports the transition to cleaner transport.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is June 2027.

We will begin partnership discussions and infrastructure planning for hydrogen fuel cell truck trials.

This matters because exploring hydrogen technology helps identify viable low‑carbon alternatives for heavy vehicles.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will review waste collection routes annually and record fuel savings.

This matters because optimised routes reduce fuel use and lower emissions.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is Ongoing.

We will install solar systems to power at least 80% of site energy use.

This matters because generating renewable energy on‑site reduces carbon emissions and operational costs.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2027.

We will audit plastic use starting with the Helix gift shop and café.

This matters because reducing single‑use plastics cuts waste and environmental impact.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2026.

We will install recycling bins on each floor and train cleaning staff to manage the new system.

This matters because improved recycling facilities help reduce waste sent to landfill.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is September 2026.

We will map all strategy links and begin quarterly monitoring to ensure alignment with CEAP goals.

This matters because aligned strategies strengthen coordinated climate action.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2026.

• Improve food waste collection in schools
• Install clear recycling bins in schools
• Train janitors and staff on recycling management
• Support pupil-led recycling campaigns
• Expand school recycling options
• Run textile recycling pilots
• Support pupil-led plastic audits
• Promote Deposit Return Scheme in schools

We will audit services and roll out food waste collection in at least 8 schools per year.

This matters because improving food waste collection reduces landfill waste and supports sustainability goals.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2026.

We will provide transparent recycling bins with clear signage for all school floors.

This matters because clear and consistent recycling systems help pupils and staff separate waste correctly.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is November 2026.

We will ensure janitors and staff are trained to handle new recycling bin systems effectively.

This matters because trained staff ensure recycling systems work smoothly and efficiently.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will help develop pupil-led recycling campaigns three months after new bins are installed.

This matters because involving pupils encourages long-term behaviour change and school-wide engagement.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will expand recycling options in schools to include items such as vapes, beauty products and batteries.

This matters because broadening recycling options reduces harmful waste and promotes responsible disposal.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will launch textile recycling pilots in 5 schools and 3 hubs.

This matters because textile recycling reduces waste and promotes circular economy practices.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is July 2027.

We will help 10 schools per year conduct plastic audits and set reduction targets.

This matters because plastic audits raise awareness and help schools identify areas for improvement.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2026.

We will provide materials and collection points to promote the Deposit Return Scheme in schools.

This matters because the scheme encourages recycling and reduces litter.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is May 2027.

• Run an Extended Producer Responsibility awareness campaign
• Grow the recycling app user base

We will run an Extended Producer Responsibility awareness campaign to reach at least 10,000 residents with clear information.

This matters because providing clear information helps residents understand new recycling responsibilities and supports higher recycling rates.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is April 2026.

We will expand the recycling app to 65,000 users and add recycling reminders.

This matters because making recycling information easy to access encourages more consistent recycling habits.

The Waste Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is March 2027.

• Train teachers in climate learning
• Add climate learning to all subjects
• Develop pathways into green jobs
• Support pupil climate events
• Increase local sourcing for school meals

We will train 20% of teachers each year using existing climate learning modules.

This matters because improving teacher knowledge helps embed climate education across the curriculum.

The Education Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is July 2026.

We will identify where climate topics are missing in the curriculum and add new learning materials.

This matters because integrating climate learning across subjects helps pupils understand climate change in a broader context.

The Education Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is October 2026.

We will map local training and employment opportunities in green industries and fill identified gaps.

This matters because creating clear pathways supports young people to enter emerging green careers.

The Education Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will continue to deliver Pupil COP and the Schools Energy Challenge.

This matters because pupil-led events build awareness and encourage climate leadership among young people.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is Ongoing.

We will work with suppliers to reach 50% locally sourced food in school meals by 2030.

This matters because sourcing food locally reduces emissions from transport and supports local producers.

The Education Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is November 2026.

• Deliver Bo'ness Urban Woodland improvements
• Create a woodland management plan for Kinneil Estate
• Deliver Second Nature Biodiversity Action Plan

We will expand accessible woodland areas, plant 24,000 trees, remove invasive species and improve paths.

This matters because enhancing woodland areas supports biodiversity, improves habitats and encourages residents to enjoy natural spaces.

The Biodiversity Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will prepare a new woodland management plan and begin phase one works.

This matters because effective management helps protect and restore important woodland habitats.

The Biodiversity Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.

We will continue ongoing projects to protect and enhance local wildlife as part of the Second Nature Biodiversity Action Plan.

This matters because sustained biodiversity action helps safeguard species and improve ecosystem resilience.

The Biodiversity Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is Ongoing.

Create a Climate Adaptation Action Plan

We will develop actions to prepare for future flooding, heat and other extreme weather impacts.

This matters because preparing for climate impacts helps protect communities, infrastructure and services.

The Energy & Climate Change Team are responsible for delivering this action.

The delivery date for this work is December 2026.