Local government is intrinsic to tackling climate change
Councils want to work as partners with central government to tackle climate change, with a focus on transitioning to a strong net-zero economy.
Councils are well-placed to do this as place-shapers, convenors of communities and partners, delivery agents, commissioners, and owners of assets.
Net zero can only be achieved with decarbonisation happening in every place across the country and this will require local leadership.
So, it was refreshing to see some recognition of this in ‘Mission zero’, the final report of former Energy Minister Chris Skidmore’s independent review of net zero, published in January.
The LGA submitted evidence to the review in October, and this was followed by a meeting between its Climate Change Task Group and Mr Skidmore, and LGA officer meetings with the review team.
The final report references the importance of local government in tackling climate change on multiple points, including the need for funding reform, and makes recommendations reflecting the LGA’s input.
It recognises that local authorities are a key partner in delivering net zero and that there must be more place-based, locally led action on net zero; and that decarbonising the public sector estate can reduce energy demand significantly, build workforce capacity and stimulate supply chains – as local government has already demonstrated.
‘Mission zero’ also calls for wholesale simplification of local net zero funding, including the consolidation of existing pots and a reduction in competitive bidding, as well as significant reforms of ‘viability’ within the planning system, to ensure local ambitions for sustainable growth cannot be avoided by developers.
The review’s focus on policy and funding stability over the long term is important for councils, and so is giving them the flexibility to respond to the different opportunities and challenges in places.
There are areas of concern – for example, the review recommends a new, broad ‘net-zero duty’ on councils, but does not set out what it is for and how to pay for it.
The LGA’s view is that this duty is not necessary: councils do not lack will and leadership on this issue, they lack backing from government in policy and funding.
While it argues for consolidating funding, the review does not go far enough on the devolution of funding through place-based allocations.
It also should go further in explaining how funds that councils have no access to, such as large amounts of skills funding, should be devolved.
‘Mission zero’ includes a focused chapter on local government but there is more to be said about how critical councils are – within transport, housing, energy projects, nature recovery and community leadership.
The need to engage differently with councils does not stand alone from these critical delivery issues.
Finally, a recommendation for relevant ministers from across government to attend the Local Net Zero Forum on a regular basis does not go far enough. A forum of senior councillors and ministers should be established with the objective of driving delivery.
Public concern for the environment is high and opinion polling continues to show significant support for net zero.
More than 300 local authorities have declared climate emergencies and are developing plans to deliver against ambitious targets.
As local leaders, we know that only councils can mobilise and join- up the local action in our towns, cities and rural areas that will reduce emissions and help us all adapt to climate change.