Net Zero Innovation Programme shortlisted as finalist in Climate Challenge Cup

The Net Zero Innovation Programme (NZIP) brings together partnerships of researchers and local authorities, supporting them to define and co-create challenges and develop projects to address climate challenges. The Climate Action Unit is a partner delivering this project.

NZIP is one of 12 projects who made it to the final of the Climate Challenge Cup; a new international competition celebrating transformative civic research partnerships in the UK and US to combat climate change. One of the partnerships supported by the NZIP programme – a Local Climate Adaptation Tool in Exeter - is also shortlisted as a finalist in the “Adaptation to climate change” category.

Commenting on the programme’s success, Professor David Price, UCL Vice-Provost (Research, Innovation & Global Engagement), said:

“The Net Zero Innovation Programme recognises the desire of both researchers and local authorities to work in collaboration towards the common goal of carbon reduction, and the unique skills these different groups bring to a shared project. I am delighted that this project is a finalist in the Climate Challenge Cup.

 As part of the project, earlier this year the NZIP team launched the podcast “Together Towards Net Zero”, in which researchers and policy professionals involved in the programme explore opportunities and challenges faced in partnering with those from different worlds to help achieve net zero emissions commitments. It aims to facilitate the sharing of knowledge on partnership working, and act as a catalyst and inspiration for collaborative climate action.

The Cup will culminate in an innovation showcase and awards ceremony on 10 November at COP26, the United Nations 2021 Climate Change Conference, held this year in Glasgow. The ceremony will take place in the COP26 ‘Green Zone’ and streamed live to a global audience.

Councillor Liz Green, the LGA’s lead member for climate change on the Improvement and Innovation Board, said:

“The Local Government Association are really pleased to work with UCL in supporting both councils and universities in their local net zero and biodiversity goals. We’re very happy to be named finalists in the Climate Challenge Cup and are excited to learn from the other finalists as part the process.