Why Finance Matters in the Net Zero Transition 

In a recent episode of the Salix podcast Decarbonisation Dialogue, Roli Martin, Managing Director and Head of Finance at Global City Futures, joined host Hannah Walker to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing the transition to net zero: finance.

Listen here: Decarbonisation Dialogue with Roli Martin 

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in corporate finance and infrastructure advisory, Roli shared his perspective on how public sector organisations can fund decarbonisation projects and attract the investment needed to deliver long-term change. 

The discussion explored the pressures facing local authorities, NHS trusts and education estates as they work towards ambitious carbon reduction targets. While organisations recognise the need to decarbonise, securing the funding, expertise and capacity to deliver projects at scale remains a significant challenge. 

Reflecting on the themes discussed in the podcast, Roli said: 

“There is no shortage of ambition across the public sector. The challenge is turning climate commitments into deliverable projects with a clear route to funding. That’s where we help organisations develop the commercial and financial foundations needed to move from strategy to action.” 

A key theme of the conversation was what makes a decarbonisation project financially viable. While technologies such as solar PV, EV charging infrastructure and heat networks can generate returns, achieving net zero requires investment in a much broader range of interventions. The discussion highlighted the need to consider projects as part of a wider programme rather than in isolation. 

At Global City Futures, this means helping clients build robust business cases and funding strategies that combine public and private investment. 

“The most successful programmes bring together projects with different financial characteristics. By creating investable portfolios and blending funding sources, organisations can unlock capital and deliver greater carbon reduction outcomes than individual projects could achieve on their own.” 

The podcast also explored the crucial role of public funding in attracting wider investment. Government-backed programmes can help reduce risk, giving private investors the confidence to participate in long-term infrastructure projects that support climate goals. 

However, the benefits extend well beyond carbon savings. Decarbonisation projects can contribute to healthier buildings, cleaner air, lower operating costs and stronger local economies. 

“When we assess projects, we’re looking at the full picture. Decarbonisation can create jobs, improve public services,enhance energy resilience and improve quality of life. Capturing those wider benefits is often key to building a compelling investment case.” 

The episode concluded with a discussion about what investors look for when considering net zero infrastructure opportunities. Long-term certainty, stable returns and clearly defined outcomes remain important factors in attracting institutional capital. 

“Investors want confidence that projects are well structured, financially sustainable and capable of delivering lasting value. Our role is to help clients create that confidence, bringing together funding, commercial expertise and strategic delivery support.” 

The episode offers valuable insight into the financial frameworks needed to accelerate decarbonisation and the partnerships required to deliver climate action at scale. For organisations navigating the complexities of funding net zero projects, it provides a practical perspective on how public and private investment can work together to support the transition to a low-carbon future. 

Listen to the full episode of the Salix Decarbonisation Dialogue podcast featuring Roli Martin for more insights into financing the transition to net zero. 

 

Global City Futures (GCF) is working with the University of Exeter as part of a new collaboration focused on reducing organisational carbon emissions, welcoming Masters student Libby Bruten to the team.

Libby (left) is studying for an MSc in Global Sustainability Solutions at the University of Exeter and is completing a solutions project internship with GCF as part of her degree. During her placement, Libby is producing an updated carbon footprint and a practical Carbon Reduction Action Plan to support GCF in lowering its carbon impact.

Libby’s course brings together sustainability science, policy, economics and systems thinking, with a strong emphasis on applying learning beyond academia. Speaking about her Masters, Libby said:

“We look at sustainability from lots of different angles – the science behind it, policy and economics, but also how you actually make sustainability work in real life. Businesses are a really important part of that.”

Supporting public sector readiness

GCF works extensively with local authorities, the NHS and other public sector organisations, where carbon reporting and reduction planning are becoming increasingly important. Libby’s project focuses on ensuring GCF is well positioned to meet current and future public sector requirements.

“A lot of this is still voluntary for businesses,” Libby explained  “but it’s becoming more government- and public-sector driven. If you work with local authorities or the NHS, having a clear carbon reduction plan is going to matter more and more.”

As a consultancy, GCF does not produce physical goods, meaning its emissions profile is different to many organisations. Libby’s work reflects this, focusing on the areas where professional services firms can make the greatest difference.

“For consultancies, things like travel and commuting become much more important. You don’t have a product or end-of-life emissions in the same way, so it’s about understanding where your real impact sits and what changes are realistic.”

Practical action with wider impact

The Carbon Reduction Action Plan will identify tangible, achievable actions that can be embedded within everyday business operations. Libby is also carrying out research alongside the project, exploring how sustainability-focused organisations approach carbon reduction in practice.

“As a lot of research focuses on big businesses with products, I think it’s really interesting to look at organisations that are already working in sustainability and ask what they find difficult and what actually works.”

The project has been designed to be replicable, allowing the approach to be scaled and applied across other small and medium-sized organisations, particularly those working with the public sector.

Working with the University of Exeter

The placement reflects GCF’s commitment to supporting collaboration between academia and practice, helping students apply their learning while strengthening the consultancy’s own expertise.

Rachael Gilliam (right), Senior Consultant at Global City Futures, said:

“Working with the University of Exeter and students like Libby brings real value. It allows us to strengthen our carbon approach using the latest thinking, while also supporting emerging sustainability professionals through meaningful, applied projects.”

Libby’s placement will run through the summer, with the final action plan feeding directly into GCF’s ongoing work to reduce its carbon footprint and continue supporting clients to deliver sustainable, resilient outcomes.

Global City Futures has welcomed two new apprentices, Edward Robinson and Fares Lazazi, who join the team as Apprentice Junior Consultants as part of the Level 4 Junior Management Consultant Apprenticeship delivered through Exeter College. Both apprentices will spend one day a week at the college, with the rest of their time embedded within GCF’s project teams.

Edward (pictured right) joins GCF after completing A‑levels in Economics, Business Studies, History and Maths. He brings a strong analytical mindset and a keen interest in how complex projects are shaped in practice.

“I’m really looking forward to learning from experienced professionals and getting an understanding of what it’s like to work in the industry,” Edward said. “This is a chance to acclimatise to real consultancy work and see how large‑scale sustainability projects come together.”

Fares (pictured centre) arrives with previous experience from a year‑long internship through the Investment 2020 programme, which introduced him to operational and automation processes in the financial sector. However, he was keen to find work with more tangible real‑world outcomes.

“At GCF the projects lead to something meaningful,” he explained. “I’m excited to gain exposure to clients, learn as much as I can, and get involved in work that ultimately delivers physical, positive change. After two years, I hope Eddie and I can become a real ‘dream team’ within the business.”

Both apprentices are already getting involved in live assignments and are eager to contribute to GCF’s mission across decarbonisation, heat networks, and public‑sector infrastructure programmes.

Elaine Anning (pictured left), Director at Global City Futures, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Edward and Fares to GCF. Taking on apprentices is an important part of building a clear skills pathway within our team and supporting progression across the business. It’s inspiring to bring in new perspectives and fresh thinking, and we’re excited to help them grow into the next generation of sustainable infrastructure professionals.”

The Junior Management Consultant Apprenticeship is designed for individuals aiming to become management consultants or staff supporting organisational change. It provides learners with the skills to contribute to business improvement, access real project work from objective‑setting through to evaluation and develop leadership and analytical capabilities relevant to consulting roles.

Edward and Fares join GCF at a time of significant project growth, and their arrival strengthens the consultancy’s commitment to developing talent within the South West.

We are pleased to share that the Exeter Housing Market Insights Report, prepared by our team, has now been published as part of the evidence base for the Exeter Plan submitted by Exeter City Council to the Planning Inspectorate.

The report assesses the national housing market context, comparing Exeter’s opportunities against wider UK trends while analysing the local economic environment that underpin these strengths. This is supported by a self conducted, data-led evidence base, including first-hand insights from developers, investors, and other stakeholders actively engaged in the Exeter market.

Our analysis draws on multiple datasets including ONS population projections, household formation trends, Land Registry transaction data, and affordability metrics, combined with scenario modelling to forecast future demand and delivery requirements.

Key components of the report include:

• Detailed analysis of demand and supply pressures across tenures
• Assessment of affordability and income-to-price ratios at local levels
• Population and household growth modelling using demographic and economic drivers
• Forecasts of housing requirements aligned with plan periods
• Consideration of policy implications for spatial strategy and delivery mechanisms.

Elaine Anning, Director Global City Futures: “This report provides Exeter City Council with an evidence-based picture of the housing market. Robust analysis allows the Council to plan confidently for growth and meet housing needs in a sustainable and deliverable way.”

This technical evidence supports Exeter City Council in ensuring its Local Plan is robust, defensible, and responsive to both current market dynamics and projected needs.

Download the Exeter Housing Insights Report

It forms part of the Exeter Plan documentation

We would like to thank Savills for their contribution and insights that helped inform this report.

Global City Futures works with local authorities and city partners to deliver high-quality evidence and strategic advice, supporting the preparation of Local Plans and long-term growth strategies. Contact us if you would like to know more.

Elaine Anning, Director at Global City Futures speaks with Abi Wilkin (right), a Junior Consultant who joined as a graduate six months ago. 

Abi talks about her journey into the sector, her experience so far and what she’s learning. From environmental science to business cases and stakeholder engagement, Abi shares insights into working at the intersection of sustainability, finance, and public impact.

What did you study and how did it lead you to a role in financial consultancy?

I studied Environmental Science at the Open University. It was a really broad, interdisciplinary course, covering sustainability, economics, ecology, geography, and some social science. I learned how to write reports, analyse data, and assess options in a structured way.

One of the most relevant modules involved writing a renewable energy assessment. We evaluated technologies like wind, biomass, and solar for a small-scale site, considering cost, carbon savings, and feasibility. That kind of skills base, where you are balancing technical evidence with clear recommendations, is very transferable to the work I do now.

How did you discover Global City Futures?

I was looking for roles in sustainability and decarbonisation. At first, I applied for grad schemes and public sector roles, such as climate emergency officers. But then I started doing direct web searches for “decarbonisation companies in Exeter,” which is how I found Global City Futures.

What stood out was the combination of environmental and social value. I saw case studies involving NHS key worker housing and heat networks; things that had real-world impact. So I sent in a speculative application.

What have you learned since joining?

A lot! On the technical side, I’ve improved in Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher, and picked up more advanced research and report-writing skills. I’ve also developed a better understanding of things like subsidy control, local government reorganisation, and how to write collaboratively, which is very different from uni where you submit your own work rather than co-authoring reports with multiple people.

I’ve also had the chance to work on client-facing workshops, initially doing note-taking, and now starting to contribute more actively. Learning how to engage clients, guide conversations, and manage expectations is a valuable skill in consultancy.

What areas do you want to grow in?

I’d love to develop further in economic analysis and benefits appraisal, and gain more experience in project management – to be able to say, “I helped lead this from start to finish.” I’ve started leaning into that already, but would like to take it further.

I’ve gained Better Business Case Practitioner and Carbon Literacy certification with Global City Futures. 

I’m also considering more structured learning, maybe a project management qualification, or an advanced Excel/data course, because there’s always more to learn.

Any advice for others interested in this field?

Don’t be put off if you don’t have a traditional finance background. My degree was in environmental science, and others on the team come from varied disciplines like sustainability and business. What matters is your ability to think critically, work with data, and communicate clearly.

Also – avoid jargon. Clear, simple language goes a long way, especially when you’re working with clients who may not be familiar with concepts like business cases or net zero pipelines. Consultancy isn’t about buzzwords – it’s about clarity and impact.

Join Our Team

Inspired by Abi’s journey? We’re currently looking for a Junior Consultant to join our growing team at Global City Futures.

This is an opportunity to:

• Work on high-impact projects with public and third sector clients
• Contribute to sustainable, data-led purposeful development
• Develop your skills in financial modelling, business case development, and stakeholder engagement

Whether your background is in sustainability, economics, public policy, or a related field, we want to hear from you.

Contact us to learn more about this role, which offers flexible and hybrid working from our Exeter offices.

Global City Futures is consulting on the development of multiple heat network projects across England, playing a key role in accelerating low carbon infrastructure solutions.

Heat networks, which provide low-carbon heating to buildings by recycling waste heat from sources such as data centres, industrial processes, or ambient sources like ground heat, are a vital component of the UK Government’s decarbonisation strategy. The government’s heat network zoning policy identifies areas where these systems offer the most cost-effective route to reducing emissions from heating, one of the largest contributors to carbon output in the UK.

The Advanced Zoning Programme (AZP), led by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), is actively supporting pilot locations across England to accelerate the development of zonal-scale heat networks. Global City Futures has been appointed to deliver critical advisory support in seven of these pilot cities under the national Heat Network Zoning Consultancy Support Framework.

The team of GCF consultants has provided a comprehensive range of services, including the production of Zonal Outline Business Cases (ZOBC), financial and economic modelling, project management, and stakeholder engagement. By working closely with local authorities, GCF has helped identify viable delivery models, procurement strategies, and financing solutions for the needs of each city.

This work has already delivered tangible outcomes. Several pilot areas have progressed to the procurement stage, with Cabinet-level approval secured following GCF’s input. The consultancy has also helped raise awareness among public and private sector stakeholders about the potential of heat networks and the implications of new heat network zoning regulations.

James Pearson, Associate Director at Global City Futures, said:

“This project aligns really well with our ethos, and takes forward an important UK low-carbon initiative. Supporting local authorities through the complexities of heat networks – building confidence in the systems, gaining investment, and enabling real progress towards net zero has really used the core strengths of our team.” 

Global City Futures is proud to play a part in this important national programme and remains committed to delivering sustainable, future-ready infrastructure for towns and cities across the UK.

We are pleased to be partnering with Arup to deliver local area energy plans (LAEPs) for the Future Oxfordshire Partnership. 

Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council, and the district councils of West Oxfordshire, Cherwell, South Oxfordshire, and Vale of White Horse have joined forces as the Future Oxfordshire Partnership.

The partnership is tasked with ensuring the area meets the needs of energy demand, while meeting the UK’s aim to move away from fossil fuels and toward cleaner, renewable energy sources. 

Partnering with Arup as lead consultants, Global City Futures is supporting the delivery of innovative local area energy plans (LAEPs) that will address climate change and ensure a cleaner, more affordable energy future for the region.

These plans will demonstrate the power of local collaboration in addressing global challenges, offering clear, community-focused actions to transform the way energy is generated, used, and managed. The LAEPs will focus on harnessing local renewable resources, such as wind and solar, to support both local and national climate goals.

Our role is to support the transition of the local area energy plan outputs by identifying investable projects that can be brought to market through a variety of different delivery and financing models. 

Roli Martin, Managing Director Global City Futures “A clear plan for current and future energy needs, and where that energy comes from is essential for every UK authority. The proactive approach from the Future Oxfordshire Partnership is going to put them ahead in terms of understanding their infrastructure needs, attracting investment and contributing to UK net zero goals. We are very pleased to be lending our financing strategy expertise to support this forward-thinking project.”

Importantly, the LAEPs will provide essential data to energy network providers, enabling them to plan and invest in the necessary upgrades to the electricity grid ahead of increased demand. This forward-thinking planning is crucial to ensuring that Oxfordshire can meet its future energy needs.

In developing these plans, the authorities and consultants will work with local communities and businesses to identify projects that will facilitate the transition to cleaner energy. The plans will highlight specific actions for each district, alongside more strategic projects to be implemented at the county level.

More about this project from Oxfordshire County Council

Financial consultancy Global City Futures have released their 2024 Impact report, a year after being recognised as a B Corp organisation for a high standard of social and environmental performance, as well as stakeholder accountability and transparency. 

The report highlights a year of consolidating the company’s processes to ensure ongoing accountability, as well as a formal statement of the consultancy’s business principles.

Roli Martin, Managing Director describes Global City Futures as:

The future outlook for the consultancy looks to build on the successes of 2024:

The Exeter Sustainability Awards that recognise organisations and individuals that take forward sustainability in Exeter make their 3rd awards in 2025. Enter before the 9th of January. 

Global City Futures are sponsors for the Small Business Award, with senior project manager Chris Mainstone on the judging panel.

Chris comes from a regeneration, construction and manufacturing background with experience in the public and private sector, and is a certified chartered accountant.  He has been very impressed with the entries to the Awards, and is looking forward to seeing what is put forward.

The Awards are brought together by Princesshay, The Crown Estate, Exeter Live Better, University of Exeter and InExeter. They working together to celebrate, support and recognise the sustainable practice and commitment of businesses, organisations and individuals driving change and making a difference to sustainability across Exeter.

The Exeter Sustainability Awards are free to enter and are open to organisations and individuals living or operating within a 10-mile radius of the city centre. The categories are open for entry. Youth Awards, also Community group / charity / non-profit, School / educational organisation, Micro business (0-9 employees), Small business (10-49 employees), Medium/Large business (50+ employees) and the Citizen’s Award which is open for any individual going above and beyond in their community.

A panel of judges will be looking for environmental and social best practice, innovation, sustainable energy use and climate resilience. Organisations, businesses, and individuals can enter themselves or nominate others. Entries are now open and close on January 9th. Full details about the Exeter Sustainability Awards, categories and the application process can be found at www.exetersustainabilityawards.co.uk

 

A new paper addressing UK infrastructure investment has been released by Roli Martin, Managing Director of the financial consultancy Global City Futures.

The paper outlines a solution for ‘UK debt-free’ investments by the private sector in public infrastructure, addressing common misconceptions about the public sector budgeting regulations and approvals process.

Roli leads on Finance and Professional Services for Global City Futures. The B Corp consultancy focuses on building investable business models that deliver on sustainable housing, decarbonised energy independence, NHS infrastructure and community. Roli, with more than 20 years’ experience in professional practice, has led a corporate finance infrastructure advisory practice and high-profile government infrastructure partnerships with the private sector.

 

Download UK Debt-Free Public Infrastructure is Available Now: Busting the Myth

Want more information, to show support or to get involved in the next steps?

PRESS RELEASE for immediate distribution – NEW PAPER: Debt-Free Public Infrastructure is Available Now

Contact Roli Martin or follow updates on LinkedIn

Global City Futures secures position on national consultant framework to deliver project management, commercial and financial support to the DESNZ Heat Network Zoning Programme 

The consultancy team will be developing commercially robust financial planning for public sector organisations where heat networks are the lowest-cost solution to decarbonising heat.

Global City Futures, the consultancy with specialised expertise of financing decarbonisation in the public sector, announces appointment to the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)’s Heat Network Zoning Programme consultancy framework. 

The framework allocates successful consultancy services to local authorities and heat network developers in DESNZ designated Heat Network Zones, where new large-scale strategic heat networks are the lowest-cost solution to decarbonising heat. 

The government committed to introducing heat network zoning in England by 2025, to revolutionise the development of heat networks in towns and cities across England. This strategic approach enhances the efficiency of the heat network development process. 

A multi-billion-pound investment is needed to deliver heat networks on the scale required to meet the UK’s net-zero goals, with access to skilled consultants vital for the zoning process’s success. 

Global City Futures have been appointed to Lot 2 of the framework, providing expertise and specialist support in three sub-lots: project management, commercial support and financial support. The result will be the development of full business cases in collaboration  with local authorities and heat network developers, providing a robust, commercially viable route to procurement. 

Roli Martin, Managing Director of Global City Futures said:

“Our team brings a wealth of expertise, having previously provided consultancy for heat network developments, working closely with local authorities and having a unique focus on the financing of net zero projects. We look forward to supporting a range of clients on this framework to progress carbon-saving infrastructure for the UK – providing cleaner, greener heat for organisations, homes and businesses.”

We have been looking back at progress in 2023 and looking forward to more in 2024.

The whole team has fed back their reflections on the year’s highlights, future direction and the efficient, successful delivery of projects for our clients next year. 

We looked at the anchor organisations we have worked with this year – across the UK, with projects in decarbonising energy, sustainable key worker housing, and transforming social care. With commended business cases, complex projects, raising up client teams from all backgrounds and forging collaborations – we took a rare moment to congratulate ourselves. 

 

We’ve taken on new people, expanding services so Global City Futures can take the lead role for clients in developing business cases, providing end-to-end project management as well as focused advice for all parts of the business case lifecycle and approvals process.

Our clients are businesses and public sector organisations that we work with to engage audiences, finding a solid path for financing so they can build governance structures that drive change.

A major highlight for this year was gaining our B Corp certification. We are very proud to be one of a handful of financial consultants in the world to achieve this. Next up is planning for our first B Corp impact report, aiming to inspire other organisations to ask questions and ask what they can do for people and planet, and creating a record of our social and environmental value. 

The White Paper calling for key worker housing in the NHS this year is a really high-profile piece, and we are offering on-going support via co-author Roli Martin. The paper, with the GCF financing model has inspired change at the highest level and we are proud to be making a difference here. 

All of our consultants are now qualified in or studying for building Better Business Cases, robust training to take on NHS projects that also installs all of our clients with confidence – our cases stand high scrutiny. New for next year, we are continuing development of the team, with regular learning sessions to sharpen efficiency and excel in quality. 

We have won two Nottys! South west business awards in Finance and Sustainability – a boost to receive recognition for the expertise in the Global City Futures team. 

We looked at the benefits of the pro-bono and support work that we do and discussed what projects to take on next year. Any team member can put forward suggestions for projects where we can make a difference, learn something ourselves and add to our value. 

Strengths for the team include the ability to take on new challenges and learn from them quickly, applying skills and sharing them elsewhere. Directors are filled with confidence for next year, quality measures are strong, the team are honest with – and look after – each other; compliance, operations and appropriate structures are firmly in place.

The photo above is from some focus days we took at the beginning of December, where we took inspiration from the stunning landscape of Exmoor to plan for the year ahead as well as polishing up our mission and values. Global City Futures has been established for six years, and it’s prudent to check in on our direction against sustainable and socially conscious ambitions.

Thank you to everyone who has inspired us and enabled us to grow in 2023 – expect more next year!