COMMENT Climate change is our most pressing global challenge, affecting everyone and everything, including our high streets. Yet political and place-based conversations about the sustainability of our planet are moving at different speeds around the world.
Amsterdam has adopted the doughnut economics model, pioneered by Cambridge academic Kate Raworth, as the foundation of every decision in the municipality. The framework it now uses is titled “What would it mean for Amsterdam to respect the health of the whole planet?”
People perhaps expect Amsterdam to be at the centre of progressive thinking about any issue in civic life but it is less well-known that Cornwall Council also adopted its own “decision wheel” based on the same principles in 2019.
It is a particularly challenging time in the UK for some councils to move into this space of environment-first thinking, affected as many are by huge budget deficits. However, all those investing in towns and cities can take steps to adapt and become more resilient in the face of the climate challenge.
Here are five things that high streets can implement to adapt to climate change and thrive sustainably.
1. Implement sustainable drainage systems
Flooding is one of the more prominent issues that towns and cities face with climate change. Enhancing the resilience of the high street’s built environment with sustainable drainage systems can help to reduce the risk of flooding. This is achieved using natural processes to manage rainwater, such as permeable pavements, green roofs and walls. SuDS can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of high streets.
2. Invest in green infrastructure and urban greening
The impact of rising temperatures on high streets is significant. In addition to making it uncomfortable for people to shop and work, it can also lead to increased energy demand for cooling, which can drive up business costs. Urban heat islands can worsen this effect, as the built-up environment can trap heat and make them significantly warmer than surrounding areas. Green infrastructure, such as parks and green spaces, can benefit high streets as they help reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality. Furthermore, strategically planted trees and plants can help shade and cool buildings and shopfronts from direct sunlight.
3. Encourage sustainable transport and mobility
“Last mile” describes the movement of people and goods to reach a final destination. For example, local people drive into town to shop, and couriers deliver packages. Reducing this last mile is critical to reducing carbon emissions. Providing safe, attractive and accessible routes that encourage walking and cycling can reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. Similar mitigation results will be seen by providing more sustainable transport options, such as increasing the frequency of buses and trains and improving public transport infrastructure and services. In addition, supporting electric vehicle infrastructure can also encourage sustainable transport. High streets providing electric vehicle charging points will enable shoppers and workers to charge their vehicles and reduce carbon emissions.
4. Adapt sustainable retail and business practices
Energy consumption is a significant contributor to climate change. Adopting energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting and smart heating and cooling systems will reduce carbon emissions and increase cost savings. Reducing waste through efficient packaging and recycling schemes increases sustainable practices and promotes a circular economy that prioritises reuse and recycling over disposal.
5. Diversify product offerings and services
Consumers are more aware of the environmental impact of their purchases and are increasingly looking for businesses that share their values. This shift in behaviour is driving demand for sustainable products and services, and high-street businesses must adapt to remain competitive. However, such challenges bring opportunities with high street businesses uniquely positioned to showcase the environmental benefits of shopping locally, diversifying product offerings to more sustainable and ethical items, offering repair and recycling services, and encouraging sustainable transport options.
High streets are not immune to the impacts of climate change, but with adaptation and resilience-building measures, they can thrive sustainably.
Hannah Wright is a board member of the High Streets Task Force and co-founder of Eudaimonia Sustainable Agency
