Net Zero, Net Gain: Unpacking the Co-Benefits of Climate Action

While many local authorities and public sector organisations are committed to addressing the Climate Emergency through efforts to achieve Net Zero, they are also facing economic challenges and the need to deliver other environmental, social, cultural and economic priorities. To date, science and policy responses have frequently operated in silos, limiting the potential for integrated solutions to multiple, interconnected challenges.

The Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 sets a powerful precedent for joined-up thinking, and momentum is growing behind whole-systems approaches that recognise the complex interconnections inherent in climate action. The Net Zero Co-Benefits project builds on this foundation, focusing on rural Wales to explore how Net Zero efforts can generate multiple, complementary benefits. It aims to identify ‘multi-solving’ actions that address GHG emissions as well as wider socio-economic and environmental challenges, and examine the conditions that enable such approaches, ensuring that climate actions support a just and inclusive transition. The research will develop a systems map to visualise the opportunity space for Net Zero in rural Wales, identifying key emissions priorities, interdependencies, and past trade-offs. A literature synthesis will highlight actionable areas and identify relevant case studies. Qualitative interviews will be carried out with practitioners and policymakers experienced in delivering or supporting Net Zero initiatives which also deliver co-benefits. These conversations will deliver practical insights into enabling conditions, challenges faced, and priorities for future action. This project will provide guidance for policy-makers, practitioners and communities on how to take climate action and unlock co-benefits, thus delivering lasting benefits for present and future generations.