Who are we?
The Leeds Climate Commission is an independent advisory body that supports, guides and mobilises climate action across Leeds. It brings together a wide range of leaders from the public, private and third sectors to collaborate on the delivery of ambitious climate action across the city.
Originally established in 2017, Leeds was the very first climate commission in the country, providing a blueprint for other commissions and place-based action across the UK. It was inspired by the work of the UK’s Climate Change Committee.
A relaunch of the Commission took place in 2024 with a revitalised sense of purpose and direction on nature’s recovery, a just transition, climate adaptation and resilience and rapid emissions reduction.
The Commission is independent and is not a lobbying group or a platform for campaigning or marketing. The Commission does not seek to duplicate existing efforts, or deliver climate action directly.
Our aims

RAPID EMISSIONS REDUCTION
to support rapid progress towards net zero carbon emissions

CLIMATE ADAPTATION AND RESILIENCE
to foster climate resilience and adaptation to climate risks and impacts

NATURE RESTORATION
to promote action that protects and restores nature and biodiversity

A JUST TRANSITION
to encourage a just and inclusive transition that helps reduce inequalities
How we work
The Commission is led by a team of Commissioners, recruited from across the public, private and third sectors, who act as the ‘missing middle’ in local climate action across the city. They work together to provide an independent safe space to stimulate local climate action through planning, dialogue, debate and delivery.
The Commission aims to support and encourage well-informed and coordinated collaborations across all sectors in the city.
The Commission is led by two co-chairs who work closely with the programme manager and director. The full Commission meets regularly throughout the year to make key decisions and to set the strategic direction.

The Commission

Our team