UK local governments are stepping up climate action, with 96% now having formal climate plans—up from 58% in 2018—covering 59% of the population and 55% of national emissions. Despite this momentum, nearly half (48%) cite budget limitations as a key barrier to implementation.

A new CDP report, “From disclosure to action: Strengthening climate and economic resilience in UK communities,” identifies 333 climate infrastructure projects worth £67 billion, urgently needing £27 billion in funding. The report compiles data from 104 local authorities representing over half the UK’s population, emissions, and GDP.

Climate-related risks are threatening public services, with 83% of authorities warning that extreme weather could disrupt essential health and social care operations. The most at-risk groups include the elderly, people with pre-existing conditions, and low-income households.

Still, local initiatives are delivering strong benefits—lowering emissions, creating jobs, and reducing fuel poverty. Notable projects include:

· Manchester City Council: Retrofitting 700 social housing units to cut 2,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.

· Birmingham City Council: Tyseley Energy Park combines clean energy, transport, and waste solutions.

· Brighton & Hove City Council: LED streetlight upgrades have cut emissions by 78.1% since 2017.

· Greater London Authority: Business Climate Challenge saved over 200 workplaces an average of £2,840 each.

Local authorities remain global leaders in climate disclosure, with UK cities making up nearly a quarter of CDP’s 2024 A List.

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