Case studies shared highlighting councils climate efforts

Friends of the Earth and the climate charity Ashden have said that progress needs to be accelerated in every local area if the UK’s climate and nature targets are to be met.

The environmental organisations have published new resources for councils and campaigners following the release of a set of case studies which showcase the inspiring work of 40 local authorities. The case studies, highlight best practice across several areas, including nature restoration, energy efficiency and transport,  showcase how councils have implemented successful initiatives and solutions in response to pressing local challenges, as well as the need to fulfil their own green targets and counter the climate emergency.

One council highlighted in the release is Derry and Strabane District Council, which is one of the first local authorities in the UK to have created a zero-waste circular economy strategy, whilst Wirral Council is also celebrated for having adopted an ambitious tree strategy to plant 210,000 by 2030 and protect existing trees.

It is hoped that all councils can learn from the range of practical insights and examples that have been collected to help them replicate best practice in their areas.

Most councils have now declared a climate emergency and 85 per cent have formulated climate action plans, but the quality and scale of ambition still varies greatly between local authorities.

Friends of the Earth stresses that a lack of clarity from central government about the role that councils must play in the transition to a safer planet remains a significant stumbling block for the sector, alongside a shortfall in funding, resources and powers. However, despite the challenges, there is no doubt that the role of councils in the coming years will be essential in meeting the UK’s decarbonisation targets.

Sandra Bell, campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said: “Whether it’s declaring a climate emergency or producing a plan to curb climate and nature breakdown, most local authorities have shown they want to do more to protect our planet. But in spite of this, we’re still not seeing local progress at the rate needed to halt the worst climate impacts.  

“For many councils, it’s a question of funding and powers, both of which are in short supply. But we have identified a huge number of ways that local authorities can accelerate climate progress where they operate. It’s vital that councils use the powers and resources they have now to drive things forward, while lobbying government for more support in the meantime.

“It’s inspiring to see how councils have overcome some of their own local challenges with creative and practical climate solutions, and we hope that others will use these examples as the springboard to further their own climate ambitions.”