Mission impossible? The role of place in mission-oriented innovation and sustainability policy
Join us on Thursday, 22 January to discuss mission-based approaches and urban sustainability policy.
The last two decades have seen a rise in mission-oriented innovation, with greater focus on sustainability challenges as drivers for innovation and industrial policy. As the country prepares for greater devolution, what is the role of cities and regions in this approach?
Research from The University of Manchester shows that when place-based leadership links global climate issues to local challenges it demonstrates practical benefits and justifies local action. Through this approach cities and regions can become sites for policy experimentation and implementation. As part of this work, Manchester academics have been working on long-term policy experimentation with GMCA to achieve its mission to be carbon neutral by 2038.
Join us on Thursday, 22 January to hear about research into the mission-based approach and urban sustainability, and how academics have been collaborating with GMCA towards tackling challenges within its environmental mission.
When: Thursday, 22 January 2026, 10.30 – 12noon (with registration from 10.00am)
Where: The University of Manchester – room details upon registration
Speakers:
- Professor Elvira Uyarra, Professor of Innovation Studies, The University of Manchester
- Matt Ziembla, Research Associate, The University of Manchester
- Robyn Smith, Project Manager for the Mission Based Approach, Greater Manchester Environment Team, GMCA
- Chaired by Professor Cecilia Wong, Professor of Spatial Planning, Planning, Property and Environmental Management and Academic Co-Director of Policy@Manchester