Richmond scoops national Green Council of the Year award

Richmond Council has been named Green Council of the Year at the 2026 Political Purpose Awards, recognising the borough's work tackling climate change and restoring nature.

The Council landed the accolade after being chosen from a national shortlist of councils that are leading the way on climate action and nature recovery.

Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of Richmond Council’s Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, said:

"This award highlights the practical action being taken across our borough. Residents are saving money through repair and reuse at The Fixery, while Community BlueScapes is helping neighbourhoods become more resilient to flooding and creating better habitats for wildlife.

"These projects show what can be achieved when the council, community partners and residents work together.

"We've also cut Council carbon emissions by nearly 70% since 2018/19 and retained an A rating from the Carbon Disclosure Project for three consecutive years.

"I'm thrilled that the work happening across Richmond upon Thames has been recognised nationally, and I want to say a heartfelt thank you to our residents and local partners for their support."

The Council is working towards becoming a carbon-neutral organisation by 2030 and supporting the borough to reach net zero by 2043.

Its Climate and Nature Strategy includes plans to cut emissions, reduce waste, support greener travel, help communities prepare for the impacts of climate change, and restore nature.

Councillor Neden-Watts added:

"At a time of ecological crisis, the connection between people and place is vital. Nature remains one of our most powerful tools for ensuring healthier, fairer and more resilient communities for future generations."

The Council was supported in its submission by partner organisations: Habitats & Heritage, Box Walks, Richmond Furniture Scheme, Freegle and Barnes Common Limited.

The Political Purpose Awards, run by Nature 2030, celebrate councils, politicians, campaigners and organisations putting nature, wildlife and the environment at the heart of public life. The awards were presented at the House of Commons on Tuesday 8 September.

Richmond Council was selected from a shortlist including Newark and Sherwood District Council, Hull City Council, the City of London Corporation and Blackpool Council with Enveco NW.

Award winners were chosen by a panel of leaders involved in environmental causes, including Animal Friends Insurance, Keep Britain Tidy, London Wildlife Trust and Greenpeace UK.