Our approach to regional Net-Zero policies in the West Midlands centres on creating long-lasting change through a collaborative and comprehensive strategy. This initiative, drawing on extensive experience from previous research projects like WM-Air, ANTICIPATE, and NIHR-PHIRST, is designed to drive policy alignment, build capacity, and extend the impact of our findings far beyond the West Midlands.

1. Policy Alignment and Co-Production– Every aspect of the programme is co-designed and co-produced with policy stakeholders, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of local authorities, national bodies, and communities are integrated at every stage. By utilizing participatory methods, we can adapt dynamically to changes in the policy landscape, ensuring that our strategies are relevant, inclusive, and impactful.

2. Research Translation and Capacity Building– To bridge the gap between science and policy, we have embedded researchers directly within policy organizations like WMCA, Sandwell, Birmingham City Council, and Defra. These researchers work closely with policymakers, translating scientific evidence into actionable insights and practical tools. They create clear, accessible reports that directly support policy decision-making, enabling a seamless integration of science into real-world applications.

3. National and International Influence– By showcasing the West Midlands as an example, we aim to encourage the adoption of our methods and findings on a larger scale. Partnerships with UK100, Defra, C40 Cities, and the Faculty of Public Health allow us to extend the reach of our project nationally and internationally. Additionally, we’re committed to sharing our findings at major events like COP30 to inspire global action and uptake of the Climate-LAT toolkit across G7 countries.

Through these coordinated efforts, we aim to address immediate climate and health challenges and establish a legacy of informed, sustainable policymaking in the West Midlands and beyond.