“ The RENEW framework is a holistic approach that embodies many of the same values captured through Baukultur’s eight core principles. Innovative financing models developed under this framework, such as the Net Zero Neighbourhood, ensure that finance is not only channelled from where it is to where it needs to be, but is harnessed in an impactful and responsible manner.” Bankers Without BoundariesLessons learned Stakeholder engagement, notably with local communi- ties, is a key component for the success of NZNs. It requires dedicated resources and time from delivery organizations and residents. A tailored community engagement approach is the most effective so that all stakeholders understand opportunities and challenges. This approach requires dedicated resources to deliver effective projects. For engagement to be effective, early lessons learnt suggest that: ըIt must be conducted around the times when res- idents/homeowners are most likely to be present, preferably in a neutral venue that convenes commu- nity members. ըEnlisting key community representatives who are brought into the project from an early stage also facilitates engagement. These community “cham- pions” must represent the local community (e.g. be representative of the ethnic groups/ages in the neighbourhood) and ideally be well connected within the community. ըCommunication materials must be tailored to the audience. For example, concepts such as the blended finance model and payment mechanism must be communicated in a user-friendly manner. ըEnabling community agency through a co-design approach while removing the burden from individu- als is critical to building individual support. However, it’s important to recognize that the coordinated approach of the NZN model can significantly alle- viate financial and technical burdens for residents. Overcomplicating the co-design element could mit- igate some of these benefits.Next steps The NZN model is on the cusp of moving from concept to pilot phase, with the first pilot sites undergoing pro- ject development this year. The key milestone will be the full development of the initial pilot sites, from which datapoints can be measured and monitored to build the full business case to scale this model. In addition, NZN projects can be enhanced by the incorporation of lower-embodied carbon building materials. However, many of these are currently under development or restricted by regulations and so cannot be deployed at scale due to technical bottlenecks. Ena- bling their wider use at scale would greatly enhance the impact of retrofit projects. Timeline The Net Zero Neighbourhood model has received fund- ing for development from a number of different ave- nues over the past 2-3 years. 2022-2023 Funding from UK Central Government (Department of Business Energy & Industrial Strategy) to develop a green book business case for a nationwide Net Zero Neighbourhood demonstrator programme. Partners were 3ci, Arup, BwB and Eunomia. 2022-2024 Various funding from individual local governments to develop pilot programmes in their areas (e.g. London Borough of Hounslow, West Midlands Combined Authority). 2024+ Funding from UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) and Department for Energy Secu- rity and Net Zero (DESNZ) into local net zero pro- grammes, including NZN pilot projects. Read more Explore more studies in the full publication: Innovative Practice Read the Eight criteria for a high-quality Baukultur: The Davos Baukultur Quality System Keep up to date with the alliance: davosalliance.orgEndnotes 1. NZN was conceptualized by Bankers Without Boundaries (BwB) in 2021 and supported at different stages by 3ci, Eunomia, Arup and BEIS. 2. West Midlands Combined Authority. (n.d.). Net Zero Neighbourhoods. Cover image: GettyImages

PR199 Innovative Practice RENEW 2024