Steps towards sustainability: the cities leading the way

COP26 saw the topic of climate change rise to the forefront of public consciousness. The Glasgow Climate Pact emphasised the vital role to be played by local and regional governments more than any previous COP text, encouraging “the effective participation of non-party stakeholders in the global stocktake”. In the leadup to the conference, more than 1,000 cities worldwide joined the Cities Race to Zero, pledging their commitment to reach net-zero by the 2040s.  

Although the buzz of the conference may have subsided, it is essential for cities to maintain momentum in their efforts to combat climate change. In considering how cities can shape a path towards sustainability, we look to the initiatives undertaken by some of the UK’s trailblazing cities.  

Sheffield: Grey to Green

Sheffield, which was dubbed the greenest city in the UK in 2021, has undergone significant transformation in recent years. The city’s “Grey to Green” initiative began in 2014 and has led to the development of new cycleways and pedestrian footpaths. The project also invested in new green spaces, as well as an innovative sustainable drainage system that prevents pollutants from entering the waterways.  

Cardiff: One Planet

Cardiff is one of the 300 District, County, Unitary & Metropolitan Councils to have declared a Climate Emergency to date and aims for carbon neutrality by 2030 as part of its strategy, One Planet Cardiff. In addition to its efforts in promoting fundamental behavioural changes, the city’s council has announced infrastructure projects planned to tackle carbon emissions. Coed Caerdydd, Cardiff’s Urban Forest, for example, aims to contribute to CO2 sequestration by achieving 30% canopy coverage in the city by 2030.  

Oxford: Zero Emission Zone

The UK’s first-ever Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) will be launched in Oxford on 28th February. Since 27% of the UK's air pollution comes from traffic, this initiative represents a positive step towards removing emissions of ICE vehicles. With plans to expand the ZEZ across the city centre in the coming months and the goal to achieve a zero-carbon transport network by 2040, Oxford’s council is taking concrete action to improve air quality.   Although some cities are demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, tackling climate change requires action from all councils across the UK. The decisions made in the coming years will determine whether we are able to limit global heating to the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement.