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Climate Evidence Unit

The Priestley Centre’s Climate Evidence Unit provides independent evidence to inform the delivery of a climate resilient, decarbonised future. 
  
In a world awash with news, reviews, and opinion, it's increasingly tricky to know which sources and outputs you can trust, and which should be taken with a pinch of salt. Incorrect or skewed information can result in errors and confusion. Misinformation or 'fake news' can sometimes lead to far more serious consequences.  
  
Through the Climate Evidence Unit, world-leading experts from the University of Leeds deliver independent insight that you can trust about achieving a resilient, net zero nation. Researchers from across disciplines – from engineering to finance, from health to atmospheric sciences – are brought together by the Climate Evidence Unit to deliver timely and robust evidence that can inform complex decisions.  

Take a look at some of our work to find out what we do. If you want to discuss how we could support your idea, just get in touch.

From COP30 to Santa Marta: Feasible Pathways for Fossil Fuel Phaseout

Ahead of the Santa Marta Conference in Colombia, this report analyses the coalitions and motivations shaping international positions on transition and identifies the economic, social and legal questions required to develop credible pathways for managed fossil fuel decline.

Carbon Capture and Storage in the UK

This report evaluates the role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) to achieve Net Zero by 2050 in the UK, highlighting significant gaps between current deployment and the levels projected by the Climate Change Committee.

What workers want: Conditions for a fair and just transition in the UK

Synthesis of research that points to conditions for a low carbon transition, from the perspectives of both workers and those who represent them.

Realising co-benefits of climate action

A review of the evidence and four case studies that explore different aspects of co-benefits of climate action, followed by five recommendations.

Targets for effective climate mitigation governance in the UK

Identifying how UK decision makers can ensure that the UK delivers its national and international climate goals

A public mandate for climate change adaptation in the UK

A call for the UK government to immediately step up and accelerate preparations for the impacts of climate change, both now and in the future.

Review of the CCC’s 7th Carbon Budget

A review of the Climate Change Committee's recommendations to the UK Government on total greenhouse gas emissions for the Seventh Carbon Budget.

Let us know how you'd like to work with us: email [email protected]

Case Studies

Low Carbon Chinatown: 100 climate actions

A low‑carbon banquet brought artists, scientists, and residents together to explore sustainable food, with CEU evidence highlighting how creative projects can drive accessible climate action.

The Benefits of Community-led Climate Action

A research collaboration uncovering how community‑led climate action delivers wide‑ranging environmental, social, health, and economic benefits

UK Parliament Call for Evidence on Air Pollution

The CEU supported a UK Parliament inquiry on air pollution, synthesising research into a concise, policy‑focused written submission, informing MPs on pollution sources, health impacts, monitoring gaps and links with climate change.

Podcast: Climate Evidence to Action

Join podcast host Professor John Barrett for in-depth conversations with leading experts from the University of Leeds and beyond, as they explore the latest research and analysis shaping climate change policy. Produced by the Climate Evidence Unit, this podcast dives into why evidence matters, what the evidence tells us, and how it can—and should—inform real-world action. Each episode brings fresh insights from the cutting edge of climate science, policy, and decision-making.