The JUST Centre and the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission have launched the Good Futures Framework, a practical tool to help local and regional policymakers make better climate decisions by understanding the impacts on people and places.
The transition to a climate-resilient, low-carbon region creates real opportunities to improve lives and strengthen local economies across Yorkshire and the Humber. But if the needs of the people most affected by change are not fully considered by decision-makers, there is a risk that climate action could deepen existing inequalities.
Through a flexible, five-step process, the Good Futures Framework encourages organisations to consider the wider implications of a climate-related policy and identify where targeted changes to a decision-making process could secure fairer outcomes for people and places.
The tool takes a cross-functional approach that brings social, economic and environmental considerations together in one place. It aims to maximise benefits and minimise negative or unintended impacts of a plan or project, building resilience and opportunity for current and future generations.
Plans communities can get behind
The most successful plans and projects are rooted in place, shaped by the unique strengths, needs, histories and lived experiences of local communities. And as new powers and resources are devolved to local places, ensuring fairer outcomes for communities and building public confidence has never been more important.
The Framework asks policymakers to draw on local knowledge, engaging the people most affected by change in a meaningful and accessible way. This helps organisations develop plans that reflect community priorities, build mutual trust and create the conditions for lasting, positive change.
Developed through collaboration
The Good Futures Framework was developed in response to calls from local authority decision-makers in Yorkshire and the Humber to understand the full implications of climate action on their communities.
Underpinned by over a decade of research at the Universities of Leeds and York, it was shaped through extensive engagement with more than 150 policymakers, business leaders, workers, community members, researchers and non-profit organisations from across the region.
This collective insight has resulted in an easy-to-use, evidence-based tool that is relevant to real-world decision-making. It can be tailored to any local or strategic authority region within the UK.
The JUST Centre is funding the Framework’s ongoing development, including the integration of JUST’s Neighbourhood Readiness Tool in 2027.
Want to use the Framework or find out more?
We are inviting expressions of interest for training and support from organisations looking to use the Good Futures Framework.