Transforming Towns and Cities
WITH JAMES TAPLIN
Please see below a short summary of a recent conversation between James Taplin, Lead Technologist for Urban Living at Innovate UK, and Roland Harwood, CEO and Founder of Liminal, about the future of towns and cities and the transformative role of the Net Zero Living programme. The full conversation can be heard on the On The Edge podcast above.
James Taplin shared powerful insights into the Net Zero Living initiative, explaining that the UK has committed to reducing carbon emissions by 78% by 2035, in line with the country’s legally binding net zero target for 2050. He pointed out that over 80% of the UK population currently lives in urban areas, meaning that cities and towns must lead the charge in achieving these ambitious targets.
"Cities account for nearly 70% of global carbon emissions," Taplin noted, emphasizing that reducing these emissions requires innovative, scalable solutions across multiple sectors—from transportation and energy to waste management. Through the Net Zero Living programme, Innovate UK is focusing on creating a £100 million fund aimed at supporting local governments and businesses to integrate low-carbon solutions.
Roland Harwood brought a fresh perspective on the importance of innovation. He emphasized that cities must move beyond traditional infrastructures and adopt an experimental mindset. "In order to transition smoothly, we need bold experimentation and openness to failure," Harwood said, noting the need for collaboration between industries, local authorities, and communities.
Taplin and Harwood also discussed how data can play a key role in this transformation. With Innovate UK supporting projects that aim to enhance digital infrastructure, Taplin highlighted that the application of smart technologies could reduce energy consumption in towns and cities by up to 30%. "It’s not just about carbon savings; it's about improving quality of life," he remarked.
Looking ahead, both Taplin and Harwood agreed that while challenges remain—such as upgrading aging infrastructure and engaging citizens—there is a strong sense of urgency. The Net Zero Living programme aims to empower towns and cities to become resilient, thriving places that lead the way in climate action.
As Taplin concluded, "The transition to net zero is about unlocking human potential through innovation, and together, we can reimagine what our towns and cities can be."
“We need massive change across the economy. 400 places all mobilized together can make massive change.”
The full conversation can be heard on the On The Edge podcast here.
