Local authorities are uniquely positioned to serve as 'place shapers', bringing together communities, businesses, asset owners, networks, public and private investors and others towards a shared local ambition of a net zero future. However, local authorities can struggle to understand the landscape of these organisations and networks that exist within their communities.
This 'community capacity' – the local networks and organisations that people trust and turn to – can be tapped into, either in times of crisis or more strategically, to build partnerships for the delivery of resilience, adaptation and net zero programmes. These charities, voluntary groups, mutual aid networks, social enterprises and community hubs can help councils reach people who face the greatest risk from climate change, and who are most likely to be left out of the net zero transition.
The people most exposed to climate impacts are also the groups in society who are most at risk of exclusion from the transition.
Extensive research has shown that low-income communities, people experiencing health challenges, older populations and minority ethnic communities in the UK are disproportionately exposed to flooding, air pollution and extreme heat, as well as the associated social, economic and health challenges. These are critical insights for local authorities to have.
As more local authorities establish plans for climate resilience, adaptation and mitigation (including net zero), understanding who is impacted, and how, can ensure that programmes are not only designed to reach those most at risk of harm or exclusion, but cognisant of the additional barriers these groups may face in accessing support or services in times of emergency, or engaging with new initiatives, technologies and services for the net zero transition.
The Missing Link offers a practical step-by-step guide to help local authorities develop a systematic understanding of the types of organisations operating within their areas to identify partnership and engagement opportunities.
Practical actions to help local authorities embed a just transition.
This work is a core part of Regen's Just Energy Transition (JET) service for local authorities, taking the often-abstract concept of a just transition and turning it into bespoke, practical actions that local authorities can take to deliver it.
The challenge is urgent, but the opportunity is clear. By recognising and investing in the hidden strength of community capacity, we can accelerate the transition to net zero and help to ensure no community is left behind. If you are interested in discussing how Regen can support your local authority to embed just transition principles and gain a deeper understanding of the community capacity in your area, then please get in touch.
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