Newham's Just Transition Plan

The UK's first Just Transition Plan, adopted by London Borough of Newham as it looks to a future that is more equitable, reduces emissions, and enables future-readiness across sectors and council departments.

In December 2023, Newham Council approved the UK's first Just Transition Plan — a landmark document developed in partnership with Dark Matter Labs and Arup. Moving beyond narrow carbon targets, it was designed to address the borough's unique intersection of climate and socioeconomic risk: Newham has the highest rate of air pollution-related death in London and is among the boroughs most exposed to flooding and extreme heat.

The plan introduces a 3-6-5 framework — three guiding principles, six desired futures, and five enablers — as a blueprint for building a fairer, lower-emission, more resilient borough. Its three principles evaluate all actions on their ability to increase equity, reduce emissions, and build long-term resilience. The six futures span homes, energy, transport, circular economy, food, and green neighbourhoods. Launched at COP28, the plan accelerates Newham's journey to net zero by 2045 while integrating jobs, skills, and opportunities to ensure the transition benefits all residents. A two-year impact report now documents its progress.