"These changes don't cost the earth, but could help save it."

Godalming Town Council has reduced its carbon footprint by making 'simple but effective changes' that have resulted in a 21% reduction in its carbon emissions.

Measures including replacing old light fittings with LED, replacing the hot water and heating system in the Pepperpot and putting more efficient hand dryers in public toilets have led to the drop.

Councillor Steve Williams, Leader of the Green Party on Godalming Town Council, welcomed the news, and urged others to follow suit.

"Godalming Town Council has shown that simple changes make a big difference and that many other businesses in the town, as well as individual residents, could also reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs by following the same simple steps taken by the council, which added together would have a greater cumulative effect," he said.

"These changes don't cost the earth, but could help save it."

Councillors were given the results of the council's Carbon Audit for the period 1st April 2019 to 31st March 2020 at last week's environment and planning committee meeting.

The authority calculates its carbon footprint using the Carbon Trust Carbon Footprint Calculator, which is designed for small and medium enterprises.

The council will also complete the transfer of its energy contracts to renewable energy suppliers by November. Its electricity requirements will then be generated from 100% renewable energy, certified by UK renewable energy guarantees of origin.