climate emergency
Councils are currently debating climate emergency responses, developing strategies, and investing in retrofitting and sustainable transport initiatives.
Councils are actively debating their responses to the climate emergency, with Lambeth Council discussing measures to protect residents from escalating impacts in October 2026. In Hammersmith and Fulham, a new Climate, Sustainability and Travel Policy and Accountability Committee held its inaugural meeting in June 2026, setting targets for the 2026/27 municipal year to tackle emissions and improve transport. Brent Council also discussed climate resilience in September 2026.
Investment in energy efficiency and retrofitting is a key focus. Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Cabinet approved £49 million for retrofit projects in its housing stock over four years from 2026/27, aiming to improve energy efficiency. Waltham Forest Council adopted new planning guidance for home retrofits in June 2026, encouraging sustainable alterations. Richmond upon Thames Council faced scrutiny in January 2026 over its net-zero by 2043 target.
Other councils are developing strategic frameworks and training. Islington's Executive approved a Climate Action Supplementary Planning Document and Retrofitting Handbook in September 2025 to guide sustainable building practices. Newham Council's Standards Committee discussed including the climate emergency in its councillor development programme for 2026/27 in March 2026. Greenwich is also drafting a 15-year Local Plan, which includes a chapter on the climate emergency, for publication in October 2025.
Key facts
- Lambeth Council debated its climate emergency response on October 14, 2026. Source
- Hammersmith and Fulham's Climate, Sustainability and Travel Policy and Accountability Committee held its inaugural meeting on June 30, 2026. Source 1 Source 2
- Waltham Forest Council adopted new planning guidance for home retrofits on June 2, 2026. Source
- Hammersmith and Fulham's Cabinet approved £49 million for retrofit projects in its housing stock over four years from 2026/27. Source
- Richmond upon Thames Council faced scrutiny over its net-zero by 2043 target on January 27, 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 15 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.