The public sector has long been a crucial player in the UK's sustainability journey, but let’s be honest-meeting sustainability goals can be a bit of a tightrope walk for government departments and local authorities.

On one hand, there’s the pressure to lead by example, and on the other, there’s a constant juggling act between budget constraints, public service priorities, and bureaucratic hurdles.

One of the main challenges lies in aging infrastructure. Many public buildings, from schools and libraries to council offices and police stations, are decades old. Retrofitting these buildings to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon footprints, and cut energy bills is no small feat. It’s often costly and logistically challenging-especially when buildings need to stay operational.

Speaking of cost, limited funding can make sustainability feel like a luxury. Local authorities are especially affected, as they face the challenge of delivering essential services on a tight budget. Investing in energy-efficient systems, renewable energy, or waste management solutions requires upfront costs-something many councils find difficult to prioritise.

Then there’s the challenge of internal coordination. With so many departments involved in decision-making, sustainability goals can sometimes get lost in the mix. From procurement to energy management, local authorities must coordinate efforts across different arms of government-something that’s not always straightforward.

But perhaps the biggest hurdle is balancing short-term goals with long-term sustainability. Politicians and public servants are often under pressure to deliver results quickly, whether that’s improving local roads, building homes, or addressing public health crises. Sustainability can sometimes feel like a far-off concern compared to those immediate, tangible needs.

Despite these challenges, the public sector is making strides. Many councils are implementing sustainability action plans, using green procurement methods, and pushing for clean energy solutions(1). The road to a greener future is certainly bumpy, but with the right support and vision, the public sector can play a major role in the UK’s sustainability efforts.

Bibliography

1 Toolkit: Sustainable procurement toolkit (Accessed May 2025) https://www.local.gov.uk/publications/sustainable-procurement-delivering-local-economic-social-and-environmental-priorities