Climate change is the biggest challenge we’ve ever faced. Local authorities and partnerships have a vital role in helping the UK reach net zero and getting their communities ready for change. To do this well and fairly, they need to bring people along.
Responding to the effects of climate change isn’t something done by one organisation alone. Many local authorities recognised this and have moved beyond traditional consultation methods to engage their local populations. Up and down the UK, we now see local authorities using a diverse range of techniques, from citizens’ juries and assemblies, to crowdsourcing and community conversations.
Engaging the public in climate decision making in these ways enables local authorities to build a deeper understanding of local preferences, aspirations and needs. This supports the development of policy that is more likely to achieve public buy-in. It also allows local authorities to reach beyond those they most often hear from. This builds trust and is a key step in achieving a fair transition to Net Zero.
Alongside our partners UK100, we've developed a Toolkit for local authorities and elected members on how to do effective local climate engagement. It provides guidance, tools and practical advice on how to ensure the needs and values of the public are at the heart of decision making about climate. It aims to support councils in moving from traditional "doing to" approaches towards more collaborative "doing with" strategies that foster public confidence and lead to better climate outcomes.
Why do you need this toolkit?
(from UK100)
It will help you understand the importance of public engagement in climate action
The toolkit explains the benefits of public engagement in decision-making, addressing common myths, risks, and pitfalls. It provides insights into how effective engagement can lead to better, more publicly-backed climate policies.
It will outline how you, as a local authority, can plan and implement effective public engagement for decision making
The toolkit guides you through developing a business case for engagement, building a winning team, and choosing the right engagement methods. It presents a range of participatory methods, from citizens' assemblies to community conversations, with pros and cons for each.
It will provide practical tools and case studies
Drawing on learnings from the Local Climate Engagement project, the toolkit offers practical tips, evaluation strategies, and real-world case studies from UK local authorities that have successfully implemented public engagement initiatives.
It will help you navigate the challenges of public engagement
The toolkit addresses key challenges in public engagement for decision making. It provides standards for high-quality engagement and guidance on how to meet these standards within available resources.
It will guide you in integrating public engagement into your climate decision-making processes
By following the toolkit's guidance, you can develop a culture of participation that brings decision-making closer to the communities you serve, ultimately leading to more effective and publicly supported climate actions.
Need any support?
- For additional support or to share feedback on this toolkit, reach out to UK100: [email protected]
- For tailored training and mentoring on public engagement, contact Involve: [email protected]