Policymaking for net zero

Question 2

What are the signs that decarbonisation efforts are failing globally and nationally?

Answer 2

• CO₂ levels have risen to 427 ppm (up 26.3 ppm in a decade)
• Climate action lacks urgency and public support, is not embedded in decision-making, and is often politicized or seen only as a cost.

Question 3

What is the role of policy in decarbonisation, and what shapes it?

Answer 3

• Policies define outcomes and guide strategies
• They are shaped by national laws, treaties, political pressure, and evidence, and succeed only with authority, acceptance, and ability to act.

Question 4

Who are the main actors in creating policy at national and regional levels?

Answer 4

• National government e.g., Parliament, Prime Minister
• The civil service departments, arms-length bodies
• Local/regional bodies e.g., Local Authorities, Combined Authorities, Parish Councils

Question 5

How did South Yorkshire engage the public on climate policy, and why?

Answer 5

• Via a 100-person Citizens’ Assembly with learning, deliberation, and decision phases
• Aimed at building inclusive climate policy, understanding public preferences, and creating a mandate for action

Question 6

What are the main barriers to Net Zero in South Yorkshire, and what solutions are proposed?

Answer 6

Barriers:
- Natural gas reliance
- High fuel use
- Fuel poverty
- Weak adaptation focus

Solutions:
- Reduce demand (retrofit insulation, heat pumps, smart meters etc.)
- Boost renewables (support local solar and wind projects, use public land/rooftops for solar pannels)
- Electrify systems
- Switch fuels (hydrogen or biogas)
- Use nature-based sequestration (urban greening, restore peatlands)

Question 7

Why are regional success metrics a challenge for sustainability?

Answer 7

Current economic and policy metrics conflict with sustainability goals, emphasizing short-term growth over long-term ecological health and climate resilience

Question 8

What are the arguments for and against reopening South Yorkshire’s airport?

Answer 8

For: Jobs, economic uplift, low-carbon aviation vision.

Against: Contradicts Net Zero goals, adds emissions, highlights policy inconsistency.