Climate Action is About More Than Targets
UK100's new flagship report reveals how councils across the UK are delivering tangible benefits through climate action – from cleaner air and warmer homes to new jobs and stronger communities. The evidence is clear: when we plan for the wider benefits, the returns on climate investments multiply.
Real Impact, Real Communities
Birmingham's Clean Air Zone
West Midlands
Birmingham's Clean Air Zone isn't just reducing emissions – it's saving lives and money. By tackling air pollution head-on, the city is proving that environmental action delivers immediate health and economic benefits.
- 7,500 hospital visits prevented annually
- £500,000 saved for the NHS each year
- 13% increase in cycling
- £3.67m in avoided climate damage annually
Leeds PIPES District Heating
Yorkshire
Leeds is tackling fuel poverty while cutting carbon through its innovative district heating network. By using waste heat to warm homes, the project delivers affordable energy to those who need it most.
- 1,983 households lifted from fuel poverty
- 25% reduction in energy bills
- 11,000 tonnes CO₂ saved annually
- 430 local jobs created
Cardiff's Local Area Energy Plan
Wales
Cardiff's comprehensive energy plan shows what's possible when communities plan for their energy future. The city has mapped out a pathway that delivers jobs, saves money, and creates a cleaner environment.
- 10,000 jobs to be created by 2050
- £500m in collective bill savings
- 91,000 homes to be retrofitted
- 160,000 heat pumps to be installed
Five Ways to Unlock Wider Benefits
Go Beyond Targets
Help national and local government communicate the wider public benefits of climate action – from warmer homes to cleaner air.
Strengthen the Green Book
Expand Treasury criteria to fully reflect societal value, not just direct costs, ensuring the wider benefits are counted.
Embed in Devolution
Include wider benefits approach in future devolution deals, with cross-sector boards driving progress on warm homes and clean energy.
Maximise Opportunities
Structure legislation and strategies to unlock the all the wider benefits of local climate action throughout planning and delivery.
Build Frameworks
Develop national tools for consistent tracking of climate outcomes and provide dedicated support for local government.
Join the Movement
Climate action isn't just about meeting targets – it's about creating thriving communities today. Download the full report to discover how your area can unlock these benefits.
This report was made possible with support from:
