William Eichler 19 September 2023

Council net zero efforts at risk, LGIU warns

Council net zero efforts at risk, LGIU warns   image
Image: Shark9208888 / Shutterstock.com.

Disputes over the expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) and Low Traffic Networks (LTNs), combined with the cost-of-living crisis, risk undermining local efforts at tackling climate change, a new study has warned.

In a new report into local government and net zero, the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and law firm Browne Jacobson argue that local government is an ‘essential agent’ for achieving net zero.

Councils have influence over important policy areas like housing, transport, health, and wellbeing, which can make ‘significant contributions’ to the reduction of carbon emissions, according to the report.

However, public support for local schemes aimed at reducing air pollution has been ‘severely tested’ due to disagreements over the expansion of London’s ULEZ and the roll-out of LTNs.

These controversies, combined with the cost-of-living crisis, risk ‘weakening councils’ resolve to deliver net zero democratically’, the report warns.

Jonathan Carr-West, chief executive, LGIU said: ‘With the country struggling under the weight of the cost-of-living crisis, it is tempting to focus efforts on that alone. However, if councils agree that the net zero targets are necessary, they must accept that they cannot deliver their contribution alone. It requires the support of residents, businesses, and the public sector across each of our communities to contribute towards net zero goals.

‘Taking a democratic approach to net zero in local areas will improve decision-making and planning by incorporating a broader range of views and perspectives, adding legitimacy to the process, and helping to build trust locally.

‘This is essential for changing behaviours and implementing local strategies. By working with the community and fostering support councils can also maximise the co-benefits of net zero, ensuring that the transition is just and fair.’

If this article was of interest, then check out our features, 'Now I am become Uxbridge, destroyer of rational climate discourse' and 'Home County drivers face taxation without representation'.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Billing and Compliance Officer - Basildon Borough Council

Essex County Council
Up to £20.0000 per hour
Council Tax Billing Officer - Basildon Borough CouncilBasildon, Essex£20 per Hour PAYE / £25.65 Umbrella Full Time, Temporary Essex County Council (EC England, Essex, Basildon
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Health and Safety Risk Adviser

North Yorkshire Council
£42,839- £47,181 per annum
Are you someone who is able to make impactful decisions? Selby, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Senior Health and Safety Risk Adviser

North Yorkshire Council
£42,839- £47,181 per annum
Are you someone who is able to make impactful decisions? Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Fostering Panel Advisor

Durham County Council
Grade 13 - £47,181 - £51,356
This is a brilliant opportunity to join our Fostering Service in a brand-new role focused on supporting our Fostering Panels.   WHAT IS INVOLVED?    A Seaham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

School Crossing Patrol

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £3,979 (approx.) £12.45 per hour
Join our School Crossing Patrol Service! Are you punctual and reliable? Do you have good communication skills and a strong sense of community spirit? Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner