A new report has warned that the UK’s approach to delivering net zero is at risk of losing public support, just as the transition enters a more disruptive phase affecting everyday life.
Researchers from the Universities of Strathclyde and Aberdeen say the current strategy may no longer be fit for purpose, with growing concern that public backing is beginning to weaken.
The report, published as part of the JUST Systems project, finds that while the UK has cut emissions to less than half of 1990 levels, the next stage of decarbonisation will be more visible and demanding for households.
Earlier progress was largely driven by changes in the energy sector, such as the decline of coal and the rise of renewables, which required little direct public involvement.
However, remaining emissions are now tied to daily activities including transport, heating and food, meaning future progress will depend far more on public participation.
Researchers say this shift is exposing a growing disconnect between policy and public experience.
Professor Tavis Potts of the University of Aberdeen said:
“Many communities simply haven’t seen themselves as part of the net zero story.
“Climate action is being done to people rather than with them, and as a result, the way we are governing the UK’s net zero transition is beginning to wear thin on the British public.”
The report highlights a decline in cross party consensus and a shift in public attitudes, raising concerns about the long term durability of the UK’s climate commitments.
It argues that the benefits of net zero have not been evenly distributed and must be better aligned with the realities of communities across the country.
Professor Matthew Hannon, Director of the Strathclyde Institute for Sustainable Communities, said:
“The UK’s net zero mandate is in peril and following the next general election in 2029 may no longer exist.”
He warned that without a change in approach, there is a risk that the second half of the transition, covering areas such as heat, transport and food, could stall.
The report calls for a move away from a centralised model towards more local, community driven approaches that place decision making closer to those most affected.
Researchers believe this could not only accelerate climate action but also help tackle wider challenges including struggling high streets, ageing infrastructure and the cost of living.
The JUST Systems programme, backed by UK Research and Innovation, will now explore new ways of delivering net zero that focus on collaboration between councils, organisations and local residents.
The aim is to build a transition that is not only effective but also fair, visible and beneficial to everyday life.
The report concludes that unless communities are brought into the heart of decision making, the UK risks losing momentum on climate action at a critical point in the transition.
