Powered
by
people
People are the true power behind net zero.
The path to net zero isn’t just a technical challenge – it’s a human one. Yet too often, decisions focus on technology and overlook the broader impacts.
The Centre for People-Led Net Zero is here to change that. By tapping into the creativity, capabilities, and insight of those who design, use, and live with net zero solutions, we aim to reshape how decisions are made.
Together with our partners, we’re co-creating practical approaches to ensure that decision-makers understand the level of system modelling required for a just, responsible and enduring transition.
We believe that when research connects deeply with human needs, net zero stops feeling impossible and becomes achievable.
Together, we can build a world where net zero isn’t just a target, but a shared aspiration where everyone benefits.
Why we exist
A faster, fairer transition to net zero is possible – when it’s powered and embraced by people.
People-Led Net Zero develops practical, people-led approaches that help organisations act, adapt, and succeed through complex change.
By placing human insight at the heart of systems, we support a just and resilient transition that works in the real world.
Despite the urgency, many organisations find the path to net zero challenging.
Tools and models exist, but they are not always usable and clear to the range of people who need them. We create a practical, people-led approach to support a resilient and just transition.
Our research is built around real-world challenges, working with partners to co-create an approach that makes systems modelling simpler, more accessible and more meaningful. By focusing on the people who design, use and are affected by net zero solutions, we help ensure that those solutions are well-informed, responsible, and aligned with long-term positive outcomes.
Whether it’s understanding when system models are helpful, improving how they’re built, or ensuring they continue to work as needs evolve, our research will help organisations plan, assess, and deliver effective net zero action. Our test cases span local government, manufacturing, and national infrastructure, giving us the range and relevance to support real change.
We’re here for...
Our peopleWe are a team of academics and researchers from the Universities of Bath, Sheffield, Loughborough and Strathclyde, working in collaboration with industry partners across the UK.
P-LNZ Leadership TeamTo get in touch with any of our Leadership Team, or for further information, please contact Cheryl Rothwell, Centre Manager for People-Led Research via email: p-ld@bath.ac.uk
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Professor Linda Newnes
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Dr Susan Lattanzio
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Professor Marcelle McManus
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Professor Carolyn Axtell
University of Sheffield
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Professor Mey Goh
Loughborough University
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Professor Jillian MacBryde
University of Strathclyde
Our peopleWe are a team of academics and researchers from the Universities of Bath, Sheffield, Loughborough and Strathclyde, working in collaboration with industry partners across the UK.
P-LNZ Leadership TeamTo get in touch with any of our Leadership Team, or for further information, please contact Cheryl Rothwell, Centre Manager for People-Led Research via email: p-ld@bath.ac.uk
Professor Linda Newnes,
Centre Director,
University of Bath
Dr Susan Lattanzio,
University of Bath
Professor Marcelle McManus,
University of Bath
Professor Carolyn Axtell,
University of Sheffield
Professor Mey Goh,
Loughborough University
Professor Jillian MacBryde,
University of Strathclyde
