Conservative MP Chris Skidmore has released an independent review of the government's progress towards its Net Zero goals.
Released on the 9th January, it makes 129 recommendations and has a whole section on 'community' and local actions:
"There is plenty of regional, local and community will to act on net zero, but too often government gets in the way. The UK government must provide central leadership on net zero, but it must also empower people and places to deliver. Place-based action on net zero will not only lead to more local support but can deliver better economic outcomes as well. Key recommendations
Government should simplify the net zero funding landscape by the next Spending Review
Government should fully back at least one Trailblazer Net Zero City, Local Authority and Community, with the aim for these places to reach net zero by 2030
Government should reform local planning and the National Planning Policy Framework now"
The report states,
"One of the starkest messages from hundreds of organisations and individuals is that the planning system is undermining net zero and the economic opportunities that come with it. The Review recommends wide-ranging local planning reform – from the introduction of a net zero test to a rapid review of bottlenecks in the system – to ensure that it is fully aligned with our net zero future."
The report outlines conclusions around seven themes:
1. Net zero is creating a new era of change and opportunity
2. The UK must act decisively to seize the economic opportunities and smooth the transition
3. The benefits of investing in net zero today outweigh the costs
4. Unlocking the ambition of places and communities will deliver the most successful version of net zero
5. Net zero can materially improve people’s lives – now and in 2050 – but work is needed to secure the benefits and minimise costs
6. Net zero by 2050 remains the right target for the UK ‒ it is backed by the science, widely followed, and is creating real opportunity
7. Significant additional government action is required to ensure that the UK achieves net zero in the best way possible for the economy and the public
Read the report here:
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