HM Government of Gibraltar’s Net Zero Delivery Board (NZDB) met yesterday to review the latest emissions data and discuss the next phase of Gibraltar’s decarbonisation strategy. Chaired by the Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia and attended by the Minister for the Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change and Education, Prof John Cortes, the meeting highlighted significant progress in emission reductions while outlining ambitious proposals for future ‘Green Economy’ projects.

A presentation by environmental consultants Ricardo revealed that “manageable emissions” in 2023 (the latest verified data available) were at their lowest levels since 2015. Key findings include:

1. Overall Reductions: Emissions have dropped by 25% since 2015, with reductions observed across all sectors.

2. Energy Sector: A significant decrease in energy production emissions has been attributed to the successful transition to the new LNG power station. Notably, total energy consumption has remained stable, indicating cleaner production rather than reduced usage.

3. Transport: Road transport emissions in 2023 fell below 2020 levels, marking a 28% reduction since 2015.

However, the Board acknowledged the scale of the challenges remaining.

The Board identified maritime and aviation sectors as key areas requiring mitigation:

1. Local Boats: This sector now accounts for 18.7% of total emissions. It was noted that this figure is calculated via fuel sales (which includes sales to boats from Spain), creating a disparity with how road transport emissions are calculated.

2. Aviation: Remains a major contributor with no current mitigation measures in place.

The Ministry for Transport delivered a comprehensive EV transition proposal described as a “significant sector switch” expected to have a major impact on overall emissions. Whilst a tender has been awarded for Upper Town buses to become fully electric, plans are already underway to electrify the taxi fleet.

A further proposal was tabled for a consultation by the Department of Environment on the possible introduction of Low Emission Zones covering Main Street and for foreign vehicles in the Upper Rock. This would be implemented over a phased period of up to five years, designed to provide policy certainty for businesses and stimulate EV demand.

To further diversify Gibraltar’s energy mix, the Board reviewed existing proposals for offshore wind energy, which would require an Environmental Impact Study in order to encourage private commercial investment in any future project.

The Net Zero Delivery Board remains committed to accelerating these initiatives while fostering economic growth through sustainable development.

ENDS