The Centre for Climate Engagement (CCE) has submitted written evidence to the UK Parliament’s Energy Security and Net Zero Committee as part of its international climate policy inquiry.
The inquiry examines how the UK can demonstrate effective global leadership on climate change ahead of major international climate negotiations such as COP events. It is exploring how domestic climate policy, diplomatic engagement and financial commitments contribute to international efforts to reduce emissions and address climate impacts, while also considering the wider geopolitical context shaping global climate cooperation.
The submission was prepared by Head of Policy, Dr Karen Barrass, drawing on CCE’s expertise in climate governance. It emphasises the importance of turning international commitments into practical action at home, while applying insights from domestic delivery to strengthen international climate leadership. In particular, it emphasises the role played by local governments and non-state actors in implementing climate policy. Strengthening domestic implementation, the submission argues, is essential for reinforcing the UK’s credibility and effectiveness as a global leader on climate action.
Key points
- Domestic delivery underpins international leadership.
CCE’s evidence emphasised that the UK has historically played an important role in shaping international climate agreements and frameworks. However, credibility on the global stage depends on clear domestic progress in reducing emissions and building resilience. International commitments must be matched by practical delivery that translates targets into real outcomes.
- Stronger coordination across UK governance is needed.
The submission highlighted the importance of alignment between national and local governments. Differences in approaches across the UK can create overlaps or inconsistencies in climate policy, complicating implementation. Greater coordination could strengthen policy coherence and support a clearer international climate strategy.
- National climate commitments must be supported by delivery.
The UK’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement are important signals of long-term ambition. While the UK’s 2035 NDC aligns with its legally mandated emissions targets, delivering on these commitments requires clear implementation mechanisms, transparent reporting, and meaningful engagement with non-state actors.
- Place-based action is essential.
Local authorities play a crucial role in implementing decarbonisation and resilience measures. CCE highlighted the potential of tools such as the Locally Determined Contributions (LDC) framework, which helps councils identify where they have influence over emissions and develop realistic local pathways to meet national climate targets.