Talking innovation, local action for a just net zero transition.
Who are we?
Local Zero is a podcast led by three researchers from the University of Strathclyde — Dr Rebecca Ford, Prof Matt Hannon, and Fraser Stewart - who work from various perspectives at the nexus of energy, innovation and society.
Why local?
We often think of climate action as nationally and internationally driven. Yet, much of the most exciting and innovative action is taking place in our communities, homes, towns and cities — right on our doorsteps. We want to spotlight this action, and understand the role that local can play in the transition to net zero.
Why Local Zero?
The name “Local Zero” was borne out of the key ideas of interest of the podcast: Local action for net Zero. Regrettably, it is not linked to the classic Bill Forsyth film Local Hero, although we always appreciate the reference.
What do we cover?
Our themes and guests are varied and diverse, reflecting the complex and bustling local action landscape. From community energy to finance, we’ve had Professor Rebecca Willis talking Citizen’s Assemblies, Leo Murray from Possible talking low-traffic neighbourhoods, Polly Billington discussing the role of local authorities, former Energy and Climate Minister Greg Barker, CCC chief exec Chris Stark on the role of local in the Sixth Carbon Budget, and many wonderful guests in between.
Who is Local Zero for?
Local Zero is for anyone who has any interest in local climate action. Our mission has always been clear — we want to have accessible conversations about real-life, practical, local solutions to climate change. This isn’t a conversation for boffins only, nor a podcast for ringing alarm bells about the climate emergency. This is a podcast for hope and discussing practical, actionable solutions.
Where and when can we listen?
The latest episode is always showcased on our homepage. Local Zero is also available in all the usual podcast places by searching ‘Local Zero’, or you can easily click “Listen Now” on the top-right of this page.
We release a new episode every second Thursday.
The Local Zero podcast is sponsored by EnergyREV. We need to understand the opportunities and challenges around policy, regulation, user engagement and digitalisation of energy systems to unlock the benefits of Smart Local Energy Systems (SLES). EnergyREV is a consortium of academics with the multi-disciplinary expertise to address these questions, identify evidence to inform change in both the UK and internationally and provide new tools and insights to accelerate the delivery and roll-out of these systems. We are doing this by considering the whole-system integration required for SLES. Find out more at: