Episode 163: Liz Allan and Katrin Harding – How Wokingham Is Turning Climate Plans into Action

Episode 163: Liz Allan and Katrin Harding – How Wokingham Is Turning Climate Plans into Action.

Liz Allan speaks to Katrin Harding, the elected Lead Member responsible for environment and climate work at Wokingham Borough Council. Together, they explore how a climate emergency declaration becomes practical delivery: a live Climate Emergency Action Plan, transparent annual reporting, and resident-focused initiatives from EV education days to micro-mobility and e-bike trials. Katrin discusses why shifting from petrol/diesel to EVs is Wokingham’s biggest lever for emissions reduction, how salary-sacrifice schemes are accelerating adoption, and where canopy solar and charging hubs fit into local energy plans. They also discuss heat pumps and home upgrades, the role of trust and clear information, and why solutions must be designed with communities, not imposed on them.

Katrin Harding Bio:
Katrin Harding steers Wokingham’s environment and climate portfolio, overseeing countryside services, renewable energy projects and delivery of the borough’s Climate Emergency Action Plan. A Cambridge-educated mathematician, she built her early career in energy trading and environmental markets before turning to local public service. Her priorities centre on practical measures residents can feel safer, active travel, accessible EV charging, and local generation, such as canopy solar, all underpinned by clear reporting and community engagement.

Quote of the Episode:
“We need solutions that work for people and that people want, because otherwise they won’t stick.” — Katrin Harding.

Katrin Harding Links:
Website: https://www.wokingham.gov.uk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrin-h-a98262101

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