Net Zero Week in York

As Net Zero Week (4th-11th July) shines a spotlight on environmental action across the UK, leisure centres in York are playing their part in building a more sustainable future through major investment and environmental improvements.

Working alongside City of York Council, Better have been involved in significant projects designed to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and enhance local biodiversity in York centres. These initiatives are helping to ensure that local facilities remain sustainable for future generations while continuing to provide high-quality services for residents.

One of the largest projects has been the installation of solar panels at Yearsley Swimming Pool, which was funded through the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority's Mayoral Renewables Fund and became operational in February. Yearsley Swimming Pool has reduced its reliance on electricity from the national grid by 51% in the three months since the solar panel system was installed. The 182kWh solar array was installed on the roof of the 116-year-old pool and was deliberately sized to support future decarbonisation projects at the site. The system was originally projected to save around £23,000 annually and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 29 tonnes each year. The success of the solar installation is expected to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the pool, helping to shield it from future energy price volatility while contributing to York's wider climate objectives. 

The solar panels generate roughly 1,000kWh per day which represents a large amount of energy, roughly equivalent to:

• 4 months of normal whole - house usage
• 167 loads in the standard washing machine
• 333 hours of continuous running of a portable electric heater

Energise Leisure Centre also had installation of solar panels in 2025, funded through the Government's Swimming Pool Support Fund (SPSF) and they generate 119MW in a year.

In addition to the solar panels, there are many ways that the centres in York are working towards a more sustainable future:

• Installation of swimming pool covers at all of our pools in York to retain heat and reduce energy consumption by at least 39,000kWh – and save 9092kg of carbon annually.
• Planting of a new micro-wood at Burnholme Sports Centre funded by UK Government to mark the coronation of King Charles III. The Green Streets® programme focusses on urban tree planting and aims to improve air quality, make our urban spaces more attractive for businesses and investment, and encourage the uptake of active travel. 
• LED lighting installed across all 4 centres in York as LEDs use significantly less energy, last longer, and avoid toxic materials, reducing both carbon emissions and environmental waste.
• Introduction of food waste bins at all 4 centres to reduce environmental impact, minimise greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable waste management practices.

As York continues its journey towards a lower-carbon future, these projects highlight how leisure centres can play an important role in tackling climate change, supporting biodiversity and creating more sustainable communities for everyone.