The Liverpool City Region has set an ambitious goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2035, positioning itself as a leader in the UK's response to the climate crisis. This target, significantly ahead of the national 2050 goal, is backed by a detailed strategy focusing on large-scale infrastructure projects and community involvement.
As the first region in the country to declare a climate emergency, local authorities are now implementing the 'Pathway to Net Zero' blueprint, a comprehensive plan designed to overhaul public transport, harness renewable energy, and support local environmental initiatives. However, the approach is facing questions from community groups who are calling for greater support for grassroots efforts.
Key Takeaways
- The Liverpool City Region aims for net-zero emissions by 2035, 15 years ahead of the UK's national target.
- The 'Pathway to Net Zero' plan focuses on decarbonising transport and energy infrastructure.
- Major projects include new publicly owned trains, a reformed bus network, and a proposed tidal energy system on the River Mersey.
- A £30,000 Community Environment Fund has been established to support local projects, but some grassroots organisations feel more direct financial aid is needed.
The Official 'Pathway to Net Zero'
At the heart of the region's climate strategy is the 'Pathway to Net Zero' blueprint, a multi-faceted approach championed by Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham. The plan's primary objective is the comprehensive decarbonisation of the region through significant investment in cleaner public infrastructure.
A major component of this strategy involves transforming public transport to reduce reliance on private vehicles. The rollout of new, publicly owned trains in 2023 was a key first step. The Combined Authority is now planning a similar overhaul for the bus network, with a new franchised system expected to launch from 2026, aiming to improve reliability and encourage more residents to use public transit.
Tim Jago, the Place and Net Zero lead for the Liverpool Combined Authority, highlighted the importance of these large-scale changes in reducing the region's overall carbon footprint. The authority believes that by making public transport more efficient and accessible, it can drive a significant shift in commuter behaviour.
Harnessing the Power of the Mersey
Perhaps the most ambitious project within the blueprint is the plan to construct a tidal energy system in the River Mersey. This long-term project aims to harness the predictable and powerful tides of the river to generate a vast supply of clean, renewable electricity for the region.
While still in the planning stages, the tidal project represents a cornerstone of the region's strategy to move away from fossil fuels. If successful, it could provide a consistent and sustainable energy source, further cementing the region's reputation as a hub for green technology and innovation.
Community Funding Initiative
To foster local engagement, the Combined Authority established a £30,000 Community Environment Fund three years ago. This fund allows grassroots projects to bid for small grants to support their environmental work.
Mr. Jago explained the rationale behind the fund. "It’s not a huge sum of money, but it’s reasonably significant, and community groups can bid in for their own little projects," he said. "There’s a lot of money gone out there. So they’re not formal partnerships, but there’ve been organisations that we’ve been willing to support.”
Grassroots Action and the Call for More Support
While official strategies focus on large infrastructure, community groups across the region are implementing practical, local solutions to environmental challenges. One such group is Earth Moves, a Wallasey-based organisation transforming neglected land into vibrant green spaces.
The group is currently working on a horticultural project to create a raised wildflower bed using donated cardboard and organic materials. This method, known as 'Hugelkultur', is a zero-waste process that enriches the soil over time without the need for disruptive digging.
"Digging can interfere with the biology of the soil in a negative way," explained Paula Staunton of Earth Moves. "My research has shown that the least digging you do, the better.”
This approach directly addresses the growing concern over soil degradation. The United Nations Environment Programme has warned that factors like urbanisation and industrialisation are damaging up to 60% of agricultural land across the European Union. Projects like the one managed by Earth Moves demonstrate how local action can contribute to ecological restoration.
The Importance of Healthy Soil
Soil is a critical, non-renewable resource that plays a vital role in carbon sequestration, water filtration, and food production. Techniques like 'Hugelkultur' and no-dig gardening help preserve the complex ecosystem of microorganisms within the soil, improving its health and ability to support plant life while locking away carbon.
A Disconnect Between Policy and Practice?
Despite the vital work being done on the ground, some community leaders feel there is a disconnect between the Combined Authority's high-level strategy and the needs of smaller organisations. While Ms. Staunton acknowledges that the council provided the land for their project at a nominal rent, she believes more direct financial backing is necessary.
She expressed a concern that the official focus is often on corporate green agendas rather than empowering the community groups already making a tangible difference. "I think we could be better financially supported so we could do more work," she stated, highlighting a common challenge for small, volunteer-led environmental projects.
This sentiment points to a broader debate about the most effective way to achieve climate goals: through top-down, large-scale government investment or through bottom-up, community-led initiatives. While the Combined Authority's infrastructure plans are essential for systemic change, the practical, hands-on work of groups like Earth Moves is crucial for building local resilience and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
As the Liverpool City Region progresses towards its 2035 net-zero target, balancing these two approaches will be key. Supporting both the ambitious Mersey tidal project and the small-scale wildflower bed in Wallasey may ultimately be the most effective path to a sustainable future for all residents.