As part of a Decarbonising Heat seed fund award, researchers at the University of Strathclyde have produced a podcast mini-series that explores key research challenges and showcases funded projects supported by the Alliance.

Local Zero is a podcast led by Dr Jen Roberts and Prof Matt Hannon from the University of Strathclyde, alongside Dr Fraser Stewart, Just Transition Lead at Regen. Together, they explore the intersection of energy, innovation and society from diverse perspectives. Each episode features a wide range of themes and guests, reflecting the dynamic and complex landscape of local climate action. 

“It has been an absolute pleasure to spotlight some of the most exciting projects to emerge out of the Scottish Research Alliance for Energy, Homes and Livelihoods programme on the Local Zero podcast, which explores real-life stories of local climate action. Our mini-series has covered cutting-edge topics while bringing together voices from communities, academia, and policy to explore how we can deliver a fair and inclusive transition to net zero—one that works for people, not just carbon targets.” Prof Matthew Hannon, co-host of Local Zero Podcast 

The mini-series highlights Alliance-funded projects and emerging research, aiming to spark new collaborations and enhance public understanding. Featuring diverse voices from academia, policy, and practice, the episodes explore topics such as the co-benefits of climate action, showing how energy efficiency can improve health, equity, and local resilience.  

“We need to move beyond just carbon metrics and start valuing the wider social and economic benefits of climate action—things like improved health, reduced inequality, and stronger local economies.” Dr Andrew Sudmant, SRAEHL Financial Pathways Theme Lead, during the Local Zero podcast episode titled “The UK Co-Benefits Atlas: mapping the positive side-effects of reaching net zero”. 

The series also delves into van dwelling as a low-carbon lifestyle and examines domestic retrofit as infrastructures of care, illustrating how housing upgrades can support wellbeing and social inclusion.  

“Care is not just about people—it’s about places, systems, and the invisible work that holds communities together. Climate action must recognise and support these infrastructures of care.” Dr Vanicka Arora, Lecturer in Heritage at the University of Stirling, during the Local Zero podcast episode titled “Climate Change and Infrastructures of Care”. 

With over 75,000 listens and a global audience spanning 140 countries, Local Zero shines a spotlight on innovative, community-led approaches to Scotland’s energy transition. 

The mini-series showcases the power of storytelling and dialogue in advancing a just and inclusive Net Zero transition—one rooted in lived experience and community insight.