The Climate Change Committee (CCC) commissioned CAG Consultants to develop a programme of research examining the role of UK local authorities in responding to climate change. The work formed part of the CCC's programme to develop evidence and advice on local action to support both climate adaptation and the transition to Net Zero.

The project explored the powers and duties available to local authorities to adapt to climate change, the wider role councils play in preparing communities and places for climate risks, the contribution local authorities can make to delivering the Seventh Carbon Budget, and the opportunities to align climate mitigation and adaptation activities. Together, the research provides a comprehensive picture of how local government can support the UK's response to climate change and where national policy and support may need to evolve.

How we delivered the project

CAG conducted policy analysis, legislative review, evidence synthesis and stakeholder engagement covering all four UK nations. The research examined the climate governance landscape across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, reviewing legislation, policy frameworks, national adaptation programmes, climate risk assessments and local government responsibilities. Particular attention was given to understanding how local authorities operate within complex multi-level governance arrangements and how national climate objectives are translated into local action.

The project produced four interconnected outputs. The first examined the statutory duties, discretionary powers and policy frameworks that enable local authorities to undertake climate adaptation activities. The second explored the wider role of local authorities in climate adaptation, analysing current responsibilities, barriers to action and opportunities to strengthen local resilience. A third report investigated what the CCC's Seventh Carbon Budget means at the local level, identifying practical actions that councils can take across sectors including buildings, transport, energy, waste, agriculture and land use. The final report examined the relationship between climate mitigation and adaptation, identifying opportunities for councils to deliver both objectives through joined-up planning, governance, investment and engagement. You can access these reports here:

• Duties and powers of local authorities in the UK to adapt to climate change
• The Role of UK Local Authorities in Climate Adaptation
• Local authorities and the Seventh Carbon Budget – summary report
• Local authorities and the Seventh Carbon Budget – full report
• Synergies between local climate mitigation and adaptation

Throughout the programme, CAG focused on producing practical and accessible evidence that could support policy development, strengthen understanding of local delivery challenges and help identify opportunities for more integrated climate action.

Objectives achieved

The project provided the CCC with a detailed evidence base on the current and potential role of local authorities in tackling climate change. It clarified the legislative and policy context for adaptation across the UK, identified barriers and opportunities affecting local action, and highlighted the critical contribution that councils can make to both climate resilience and emissions reduction.

The research also demonstrated that adaptation and mitigation are most effective when considered together. The resulting reports highlighted practical ways that local authorities can integrate these agendas, improve value for money and maximise wider social, environmental and economic benefits. The findings are helping to inform the Climate Change Committee's understanding of local climate action and support the development of advice to government on achieving a resilient, low-carbon future.

For further information, please contact Derek Morgan at mailto:dm@cagconsult.co.uk