London Climate Resilience Review

The GLA has published its final report on the London Climate Resilience Review. This groundbreaking report sets out that preparing London for more frequent and extreme climate risks is “non-negotiable” and makes 50 recommendations to the Mayor of London, UK government and key agencies across London and the UK.

Climate resilience refers to a city's ability to withstand and adapt to the impacts of climate change. From flooding and heatwaves to more subtle shifts in weather patterns, the reality of climate change is here, and London is not exempt. According to the report, preparing London for these increasingly frequent and extreme risks is "non-negotiable".

The London Climate Resilience Review stresses the need for forward-thinking action, not just to protect current residents but to ensure that future generations can thrive. London’s population is growing, and with it comes an increased strain on everything from housing and transport to healthcare and public services. Without robust climate adaptation strategies, these systems risk collapse in the face of environmental challenges.

This report goes beyond mere warnings and offers practical steps that can be implemented at various levels of governance. It lays out 50 recommendations directed at the Mayor of London, the UK government, and key agencies across the city and the country.

Some of the standout recommendations include:

1. Improving infrastructure resilience – Ensuring that London's transport network, energy supply, and public services can continue to function despite climate stressors like extreme heat or flooding.

2. Green urban planning – Expanding green spaces and nature-based solutions, such as urban forests and wetlands, which can absorb excess rainfall, reduce the urban heat island effect, and improve overall air quality.

3. Public health adaptation – Ensuring the healthcare system is prepared for climate-related challenges such as heat-related illnesses, new diseases, and mental health impacts from climate anxiety.

4. Engagement with marginalized communities – Ensuring that vulnerable populations, such as those in lower-income areas or with pre-existing health conditions, are included in climate resilience planning and have equitable access to resources.

This report sends a clear message that tackling climate risks is a shared responsibility, requiring cooperation across every sector and level of society. By embracing these recommendations, London can not only safeguard its future but also set a global example of what it means to build a truly climate-resilient city.

Find the full report here: The London Climate Resilience Review – July 2024