Press Kit
Press Bio
Paul Chatterton is Professor of Urban Futures in the School of Geography at the University of Leeds, where his work addresses the pressing climate, ecological and social challenges shaping contemporary urban life. His career spanning 25 years is defined by a commitment to bridging academic research, public policy and community-led action to accelerate just and sustainable transitions in cities. Over the past 25 years, Paul has collaborated extensively with civil society organisations, local authorities, campaigners and community groups to develop practical, place-based responses to the climate emergency. He was part of the group who established the legendary Common Place social centre in Leeds, which has continued as pioneering Indi venue Wharf Chambers. His work has supported initiatives to phase out fossil fuels through Climate Camps and the Drax 29, repurpose derelict buildings, establish community-led housing models and development trusts, and promote low‑carbon mobility. He has facilitated non violent activist and youth movements, contributed to campaigns for migrant and peace justice, and helped grow grassroots networks focused on cycling, walking and urban liveability. Paul is a widely published scholar with more than 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and is the author of ten books, including Low Impact Living, Unlocking Sustainable Cities and How to Save the City. His writing combines empirical research with strategic insights for policymakers, practitioners and community leaders working to shape resilient and socially inclusive urban futures. Through his research, teaching and public engagement, Paul continues to champion transformative approaches that align climate action with social justice and democratic participation. He regularly advises businesses, public bodies and civic partners on climate emergency planning, urban decarbonisation and participatory governance. In Leeds, he has played a central advisory role in Climate Action Leeds, a decade-long programme developing a citywide vision for a fair, zero‑carbon future. Beyond the University, Paul is an active advocate for alternative housing models and lives in Lilac Grove, an award‑winning co‑housing community pioneering low‑impact living, as well as cofounder of the Xanadu Housing cooperative. He is currently Chair of Kirkstall Valley Park, a Director of Clean Energy Leeds and people Powered Homes, and a cofounder of Leeds Community Homes, as well as the University of Leeds’ interdisciplinary network on Remaking Places.
Available For
Topics & Expertise
- ▸ Post-carbon cities and urban sustainability
- ▸ Community-led housing and co-housing
- ▸ Grassroots climate action and mobilisation
- ▸ Doughnut economics, degrowth and post-growth cities
- ▸ Social movements and activist research
- ▸ Urban commons and post-capitalist futures
- ▸ Just transition and social justice
- ▸ Higher education and net-zero aviation
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Media Contact
Professor Paul Chatterton
School of Geography, University of Leeds
Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
p.chatterton@leeds.ac.ukPaul typically responds to media enquiries within 2 working days.
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After three decades of research and activism, I'm always looking for partners who want to create sustainable, just, and resilient futures.
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