Briefing Notes
WM-Net Zero is producing a series of briefing notes on a variety of subjects. Please check back regularly for new additions to the series.
Reducing health risks of gas cooking
Gas cooking in a typical kitchen can produce high levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution exceeding health-based World Health Organisation Guidelines.
Replacement of gas hobs with electric and induction alternatives can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve indoor air quality and protect health.
Read our briefing note on Reducing health risks of gas cooking.
Accelerating home energy retrofit uptake: actions to overcome social factors
Retrofitting our homes can cut carbon emissions, lower energy bills and create healthier places to live—but technology alone is not enough. This briefing shows that people are more likely to embrace home energy improvements when information is clear, trusted and relevant to everyday life. By involving communities early, addressing concerns, reducing disruption and working with local organisations, retrofit programmes can build confidence, increase participation and ensure the benefits of warmer, healthier homes reach the people who need them most.
Healthy homes and net zero: maximising health benefits through housing policy
Decarbonising homes can deliver significant benefits beyond reducing carbon emissions, including improved indoor air quality, better physical and mental health, and lower energy costs. This briefing highlights the opportunities for housing and retrofit policies to support healthier homes and communities across the West Midlands, while identifying key considerations for policymakers to ensure health outcomes are embedded within the transition to net zero.
Healthy homes and net zero neighbourhoods
Creating net zero neighbourhoods offers an opportunity to improve health, wellbeing and resilience alongside reducing carbon emissions. This briefing explores how place-based approaches, community engagement and integrated planning can help deliver healthier, more sustainable neighbourhoods across the West Midlands.
Evaluating retrofit programmes: understanding health and indoor air quality impacts
Home retrofit programmes can influence indoor air quality, health and wellbeing as well as energy performance. This briefing outlines the importance of incorporating health and indoor air quality considerations into retrofit evaluation frameworks to maximise benefits and avoid unintended consequences.
Air quality and health in Birmingham
Poor air quality remains a significant public health challenge, contributing to ill health and health inequalities across Birmingham. This briefing summarises the evidence linking air pollution and health, highlights local impacts, and identifies opportunities for policy interventions that can improve air quality while supporting net zero ambitions.
Read our briefing note on Air Quality and Health in Birmingham