climate emergency
Local government can drive an inclusive transition to net zero
Emily Morrison calls for a place-based approach to net zero transition, saying national policy is failing to support the UK’s poorest households towards a carbon-neutral future.
An appetite for change in Durham
Kelly Rose says tackling health inequalities is the key focus of Durham County Council’s work to improve access to healthier food, alongside promoting low carbon diets.
From 0 to hero on net zero
Barnet’s latest Climate Scorecard rating shows what can be achieved in 18 months, including the creation of a citizens’ and young people’s assembly, writes Yogita Popat.
Going faster for a green future
Chris Clarke says that for sustainable procurement it’s crucial not to let a pursuit of the perfect become the enemy of progress – and he looks at the action councils can take.
Decarbonisation: from planning to action
Lack of capacity on the electricity grid can present a significant barrier to local authorities’ net zero goals. Ben Taylor explains how partnering with a decarbonisation expert can help to provide the best chance of success.
Is EV charging the new rural amenity?
EV charging is part of the solution to sustain thriving, dynamic rural communities, according to Zest.
Decarbonising energy networks on the road to net zero
Finding an effective route through the complexities of achieving net zero carbon by 2050 is not always easy, which is why many public sector organisations are seeking external help to optimise the journey. David Mills at EA Technology explores the options
Hope amid the gloom
The coming year may look bleak but outgoing chief executive of the Centre for Progressive Policy Charlotte Alldritt says the inclusive growth agenda leaves her with lots of hope.
Oxfordshire’s green future: Failure is not an option
Cllr Pete Sudbury looks at the key messages that came out of Oxfordshire CC’s recent 100 Together green finance conference.
The lack of a national strategy for cities is a national failing
After the General Election, regardless of who wins it, Core Cities will unite with partners to call for a national plan for cities, says Marvin Rees OBE.
Striding towards a green future
South Derbyshire DC has declared climate and ecological emergencies, and the new Council Plan and Local Plan are placing climate and environmental action as highest priority, says Justin Ives.
Driving the green agenda
Maud Hollis discusses the crucial role of talent and leadership in local government’s journey to net zero.
Heat Networks: A key asset in the race to net zero
Channa Karunaratne reflects on the decarbonisation opportunities presented by heat networks and how local authorities can get to grips with the challenges of implementing them.
How can council leaders address the retrofit skills conundrum?
David Pierpoint explores how councils and social housing leaders can work to address their practical retrofit skills gap as they address their decarbonisation targets.
Districts ‘think global, act local’
Stroud's action plan for carbon neutrality includes continuing to put its own house in order but is also about working in partnership with others and supporting its passionate communities, says Kathy O’Leary.
A collaborative approach reaps rewards
Robin Heap outlines how the new BCP Council’s Bike Share cycle scheme has benefited the city region in a short space of time – and in the process became a big winner at this year’s The MJ Awards.
AI and public services of the future
The challenge for Surrey is to work with partners to develop a regional economic ecosystem around AI, and harness the technology in a safe and trustworthy way, says Dawn Redpath.
Climate action’s delicate high-wire act
Jonathan Stephenson says reaching net zero is a monumental task that demands unity - a coming together of local authorities, the private sector, universities, and communities.
Ending the uncertainty
The North could reap the benefits of a focused long-term industrial strategy for meeting net zero, explains Ryan Swift.
It’s time for local authorities to reframe the net zero narrative
Stewart Pickering and Huw Bunn examine how simplifying the way councils communicate progress to net zero can remove complexity and focus on outcomes.