Progress reporting on climate change mitigation and adaptation

Unlocking the governance challenge for strategic local authorities.

Project Summary

This project addresses the urgent need for consistent, meaningful climate impact reporting by UK local authorities (LAs). Despite widespread climate emergency declarations, LAs lack statutory duties and standardised methods to measure progress, particularly beyond greenhouse gas emissions. This research will develop a test-case reporting framework that captures the broader governance and enabling roles of strategic LAs, such as county councils and combined authorities. Using semi-structured interviews, desktop analysis, and collaborative feedback, the project will co-create a robust methodology and sample dashboard. It will engage directly with stakeholders—including Hampshire, Hertfordshire, and Essex County Councils, ADEPT, APSE, and community energy groups—to ensure practical relevance. The interdisciplinary UCL team combines expertise in climate policy, impact evaluation, engineering, and systems thinking. By empowering LAs to demonstrate their contributions, secure funding, and share best practices, the project aims to unlock more effective, transparent, and equitable climate governance across the UK.