Reading Achieves Global Recognition for Climate Action—for the Fourth Year Running 

18th June 2025

Reading has once again secured a place on the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) ‘A’ List, placing it among just 112 towns and cities worldwide, and only 20 in the UK, recognised for outstanding leadership in environmental transparency and climate action. 

The CDP ‘A’ List ranks cities based on stringent criteria, including a town-wide emissions inventory, a published climate action plan, and demonstrated impact from climate-related projects. With just 15% of cities globally achieving an ‘A’ score, Reading’s inclusion reflects its commitment to a long-term resilience for a sustainable future. 

Over the past 20 years, Reading has achieved a 54% reduction in carbon emissions, while Reading Borough Council has slashed its own emissions by 73% since 2008/09. These results are the outcome of coordinated policy, business leadership, and community action, including the development of major initiatives like the Reading Climate Emergency Strategy. 

As a town at the forefront of both climate innovation and economic growth, Reading benefits from its unique partnerships with institutions such as the University of Reading, internationally renowned for its cutting-edge climate research. These local-global links help shape policy and position Reading as a climate-smart destination for sustainable business and investment. 

This month’s Reading Climate Festival saw the launch of the draft Reading Climate Emergency Plan 2025–2030, with residents, businesses and stakeholders invited to contribute ideas to shape the town’s priorities over the next five years. With themes spanning energy, transport, waste, water, food, and biodiversity, the new strategy aims to accelerate decarbonisation while supporting green economic growth. 

Nigel Horton-Baker, Chief Executive of REDA (Reading's Economy and Destination Agency), said: “Reading’s consistent inclusion on the CDP ‘A’ List highlights how serious we are about tackling climate change in a way that supports both our environmental responsibilities and our economic ambitions. Taking meaningful climate action is not only the right thing to do—it also creates long-term opportunities for sustainable growth, innovation and investment. REDA is also supporting the Reading Climate Change Partnership with the creation of Reading’s Climate Emergency Plan (2025-30). This is another important milestone in building a thriving, low-carbon economy that benefits both people and the planet.” 

With the upcoming Climate Emergency Plan and continued investment in clean transport, energy innovation and green infrastructure, Reading is positioning itself as a national leader in climate-resilient, economically vibrant urban development. 

For investors, employers, and entrepreneurs alike, Reading offers the ideal environment to grow responsibly in a town that puts climate ambition at the heart of its future.