How can the UK public sector meet its ambitious net-zero targets while continuing to deliver vital services to communities?

The UK has committed to achieving net zero by 2050, with the public sector expected to lead by example. Government initiatives such as the Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener, the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), and the Low Carbon Skills Fund have already channelled billions of pounds into retrofitting, renewable energy, and energy efficiency improvements across public buildings. A value for money report by the National Audit Office found that the public estate alone is responsible for around 2% of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions, emphasising the scale of opportunity and responsibility. Meanwhile, regional and local government climate plans are setting even more ambitious interim targets, with many councils and NHS trusts pledging to reach net zero by 2050 or earlier.

Public sector leaders must balance tight budgets and growing service demands with the urgent need to decarbonise. Technical challenges such as grid capacity, the pace of renewable deployment, and retrofitting older, harder-to-treat buildings further complicate delivery. There is also a pressing need to upskill the workforce, embed robust data and reporting systems, and navigate an evolving policy and regulatory landscape, all while engaging with local communities and ensuring just and equitable transitions.

The Institute of Government & Public Policy is known for delivering thought-leading energy and sustainability conferences. The National Achieving Net Zero in the Public Sector Show and Exhibition 2026 will bring together senior leaders and influencers from across the public sector, including central government, local authorities, the NHS, academia, and housing associations.

Join the Institute of Government & Public Policy for the National Achieving Net Zero in the Public Sector Show and Exhibition 2026 to discover how the public sector is tackling climate challenges - and how your organisation can support and accelerate the Net Zero transition.