Green capital sponsors announced for Bristol 2015

The sponsorship partners represent strong private sector backing to the European Green Capital in what is said to be one of largest sponsorship schemes ever for Bristol, although the exact amounts have yet to be disclosed.

Bristol 2015 Ltd chairman Andrew Garrad said: “We’re delighted to be able to announce one of the largest private sector sponsorship deals that Bristol has ever seen. It’s brilliant to see these businesses making such a commitment to the city and the opportunities which being European Green Capital will offer.”

The plans for Bristol’s year as the European Green Capital include a grant funding programme to support community sustainability initiatives, a volunteer programme for frontline businesses, a sustainable living programme for schools and a series of high profile summits on climate change. There will also be a yearlong international green technology festival and the launch of the ‘Bristol Prize’ for new green innovations.

Mayor of Bristol George Ferguson added: “This substantial sponsorship from FirstGroup and KPMG is a tremendous endorsement of the importance of European Green Capital 2015 to Bristol and the UK.”

The funding from the private sector comes after £7m of Government funding was announced by Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander earlier this year. Bristol 2015 plans to announce further private sector deals with a focus on the digital and technology sectors.

KPMG partner and south chairman Phil Cotton said: “This is a major opportunity for business, government and the communities in Bristol and beyond to work together to drive long term change and make Bristol a better place to live and do business, both now and in the future.

“Our team of advisors will work with the Bristol 2015 team to raise Bristol’s profile as a global leader, accessing our UK and international networks.”

Bristol was chosen as the European Green Capital in June last year, beating rivals Brussels, Glasgow and Ljubljana. The city has an extensive programme of green measures including a £140m energy investment programme and plans for a 1GW capacity of solar power by 2020.

Last month a report from the Institute of Public Policy Research stated that Britain’s cities could become powerhouses of renewable technology and offer a local alternative to the ‘Big Six’ energy companies.

Matt Field