Biodiversity Duty Report January 2026 - Climate Change Strategy

Walsall’s Net Zero 2041 Strategy sets out the borough’s pathway to achieving a Net Zero, climate resilient future. The Strategy recognises the critical interdependencies between climate action and nature recovery. It has a vision to transform Walsall into a healthier, clean and green, carbon-neutral, climate-resilient borough by 2041, where all residents enjoy clean air, green spaces, and a thriving natural environment.

The Strategy identifies Natural Capital and Land Use as a core strategic theme. It emphasises protecting and enhancing Walsall’s green spaces, restoring habitats and integrating natural capital into planning, regeneration and development decisions. These aims are summarised in four priorities.

• Priority 1: Achieve a net gain in biodiversity for new developments.
• Priority 2: Create green and blue spaces that increase biodiversity, reduce air pollution, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
• Priority 3: Increase investment into our natural environment.
• Priority 4: Increase engagement with our natural environment.

These commitments support the borough’s biodiversity duty by ensuring that nature recovery is central to carbon reduction and climate adaptation.