Public understanding of carbon budgets and engagement with net zero policy pathways PS24231

***** THIS IS AN AWARD NOTICE, NOT A CALL FOR COMPETITION *****

This procurement is being concluded following a mini competition under the Behavioural Science Call-off Framework - RAF067/2324 PS24030

Brief Description of Requirement

In 2019, the UK became the first major economy in the world to legislate for a binding net zero target, committing to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. A large proportion of reductions in emissions in the Government's net zero pathway will require the public to make changes to their everyday lives. This will range from adopting low- carbon heating, electric vehicles or choosing more sustainable products 1. In addition, the public will see wider changes in their local communities, including new clean energy infrastructure. Public support and willingness to participate in the net zero transition is critical. Evidence shows that across the UK, 89% of people are aware of the concept of net zero and 84% agree that if everyone does their bit, we can reduce the effects of climate change1. In another recent national survey, 87% wanted to hear more about the measures to achieve net zero2. This demonstrates that the public is somewhat engaged in the path towards net zero and there is appetite to hear more. However, evidence is lacking on how best to communicate our pathway to net zero and involve people in decision making on issues extending so far into the future.

DESNZ want to understand public views and ability to engage on our net zero pathway, including how we communicate and could involve the public in the development of carbon budgets, to ensure that their perspectives are represented as part of the broader democratic discussion on how we meet our climate commitments. This will help to inform the department's overall approaches to public participation. Understanding how best to present our carbon budgets targets and the associated delivery plans to the public, alongside the wider net zero pathway, is also crucial to maintaining public support for the actions needed to remain on track for net zero.

Research Aims and Questions 1) How much do the public understand about carbon, net zero, and related terms and do they want to increase their level of literacy? 2) Does the public want to be involved in the setting of carbon budgets and wider net zero policy development and what type of engagement would they want? 3) What kind of information and materials do the public need to understand the overall net zero transition?