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It's time for ACTION: 14 green policy priorities for the new UK Government - Part one
From environmental plans and air quality proposals through to energy efficiency schemes and low-carbon industrial strategies, edie has identified the most critical areas of green policy that Theresa May's new Government must prioritise to ensure the UK bears the fruits of a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy.
General Election results: Green economy braced for further uncertainty after hung parliament vote
Clouds of uncertainty continue to hover over the future of a number of key long-term environmental policy frameworks as the Conservative Party has failed to win an overall majority in a shock outcome of the UK General Election.
The great green policy survey: Last chance to tell us the issues that matter most
The countdown to the General Election is on and tension is beginning to mount among the green business community as to which political party to vote for. Take edie's short survey to tell us which areas of energy and environment policy you want the next UK Government to prioritise.
Sustainable Business Covered podcast: We're back! And we're LIVE from edie Live (Part 2)
Sustainability leaders from the likes of BT, Interface and Vodafone are providing the insight and inspiration in the second of this special two-part episode of the podcast, brought to you live from the show floors of edie Live 2017.
Sustainability megatrends: Realising the business case for sustainable economic growth
edie's series of exclusive thought-leadership articles on the global impact of megatrends culminates with New Climate Economy's programme director Helen Mountford exploring how businesses and governments are developing more sustainable models of economic growth that are fit for the future.
What will the 2017 General Election mean for green business?
With the nation set to undergo yet another major political decision after the shock announcement to call a snap election, edie investgates how the outcome of the poll on 8 June could impact sustainability and environmental professionals.
Minister responds to fears over GIB restructuring
Business and energy minister Nick Hurd has written to the head of the Environmental Audit Committee to respond to concerns over the restructuring of the Green Investment Bank ahead of its sale.
Budget 2017: Chancellor confirms electric vehicle funding, announces new recycling targets
BREAKING: Key proposals on the future of carbon pricing, renewable energy subsidies and air quality remain on the UK Government's 'to-do' list as Chancellor Philip Hammond offered relatively little for the green economy to get excited about in his 2017 Budget this afternoon.
Five green policy priorities to stop Brexit ruining our environment
From the delivery of an ambitious 25-Year Environment Plan to the avoidance of ineffective 'zombie legislation', Environmental Industries Commission (EIC) executive director Matthew Farrow outlines the key steps that must be taken by the Government to ensure Britain's exit from the EU will not have a negative impact on our environment.
Industrial Strategy green paper: A step in the right direction or too little, too late?
The Government has unveiled its much-anticipated Industrial Strategy, outlining plans to transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy. But does the green paper offer enough tangible evidence that we are on the best pathway to a low-carbon economy?
Sustainability Leaders Awards 2017: Meet the finalists
edie brings you a unique insight into the fast-expanding green business community, with a new report which summarises the various businesses, initiatives, teams and individuals that have been shortlisted as finalists for edie's 2017 Sustainability Leaders Awards.
The Sustainable Business Covered podcast: Episode 17 - A New Year's Revolution for the green economy
The edie editorial team returns from the festive break to bring you this very special first podcast episode of 2017, with sustainability leadership expert Alexandra Stubbings coming into the studio to provide us with plenty of reasons to feel positive and optimistic about the year ahead.
Happy New Year: Seventeen big reasons for the green economy to be excited about 2017
From new sustainability standards and ambitious green policy strategies through to major renewable energy projects and autonomous vehicle trials, we look ahead to some of the most promising trends and developments set to boost the green economy in 2017.
16 from 2016: the crucial sustainability stories of the year
With the year drawing gradually to a close, edie examines the major highlights that defined the global environmental and sustainability agenda in the past 12 months.
28 days later: What we know so far about the climate impact of Trump
In the first 28 days since Donald Trump's presidential triumph in the US elections, edie investigates the initial impact of the climate change denier's victory on the global green economy.
The Bournemouth Identity: Building a green business hub on the south coast
Climate change may be consuming shores and islands at a faster rate than ever before, but nestled on the southern coastline of the UK, Bournemouth Council has extended its climate change strategy beyond just delivering local efficiency improvements through to a long-term vision to become the nation's green economy leader.
Autumn Statement 2016: 10 green policy hopes for Philip Hammond's first budget announcement
From unveiling a low-carbon Industrial Strategy and confirming post-Brexit support for renewables through to enabling a smart, flexible energy system and providing more expenditure to prevent flooding - will new Chancellor Philip Hammond deliver on our green policy wishlist in his first Autumn Statement?
Quarter of global emissions could be covered by a carbon price in 2017, says World Bank
If policymakers can embed a carbon price within "complimentary" green legislation, then climate change mitigation costs could fall by almost a third by 2030, a new report from the World Bank has found.
Low-carbon sector growth key to boosting national economies, study finds
Countries reliant on high carbon intensity (HCI) sectors such as utilities, manufacturing and transport will struggle to boost economic activity while reducing emissions, a new report has claimed.
'Rapid' low-carbon transition could damage economic stability, warns Bank of England
The transition to a low-carbon economy is filled with potential paradoxes that could lead to either the current generation having no "direct incentive" to drive change, or actually transitioning too quickly to the point where financial stability would be damaged.
Investors fear next financial crisis will be climate-related
A rushed transition to clean energy triggered by extreme weather events linked to global warming "will be very expensive" to swallow for the economy, investors warned policymakers at an event in Bratislava.
Enabling policies needed to accelerate Northern green economy, says Aldersgate Group
A comprehensive emission reduction plan and policy frameworks that enable the uptake of low-carbon projects are necessary to "champion investment" in the North, a new report from environmental coalition The Aldersgate Group has claimed.
What we want from BEIS: a wishlist for the green economy - Part one
EXCLUSIVE: In the first of a two-part feature, edie speaks to the sustainability professionals, politicians, businessmen and environmental activists working across the green economy to find out they want to see from the Government in this new Parliamentary session.
Can sustainability professionals lead a 'social movement' to drive the green economy?
Environment and sustainability professionals can become the leaders of a new social movement that paves the way for a low-carbon, resource efficient future where fossil fuel consumption and air pollution are eradicated from human activities.
What will the green economy look like in 10 years' time? Experts predict cleantech trends...
By 2026, the global adoption of a low-carbon economy will have taken huge strides, with smart city revenues and energy storage deployment skyrocketing, and the number of low-carbon heavy-duty vehicles on the roads also increasing at impressive rates.
EU Referendum results: Red alert for the green economy as Britain votes to LEAVE the EU
BREAKING: Britain will no longer continue the fight against climate change as part of the European Union (EU), with the EU Referendum delivering shock win for the Leave campaign in what is seen as a significant blow to our environment and the green economy.
10 things you probably didn't know about green energy jobs
With new figures from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) revealing that employment in the renewables industry rose by 5% over the past 12 months, to pass 8.1 million, edie dissects the data to bring you 10 fascinating facts about clean energy employment.
Britain's green economy worth £46.2bn, new figures reveal
The UK green economy generated £46.2bn turnover through the efforts of 238,500 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers in almost 100,000 low-carbon and renewable energy (LCRE) companies in 2014, a report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed.
Report: UK can 'exercise global leadership' on climate change in reformed EU
The environmental consequences of leaving the EU is the subject of a new report from a neutral and independent UK-EU think tank which highlights three possible green policy scenarios the upcoming referendum could lead to.
Could the UK's first Green ISA create a £60bn investment pot?
The UK's first 'Innovative Finance ISA' launched today (6 April) from investment platform Abundance, allowing investors to finance renewable projects through an operative tax ISA that could boost the green economy by £28.5bn.
Budget 2016: The green business reaction
Was it a Climate Budget that delivered on the UK Government's green promises? Or has Chancellor George Osborne failed to deliver the Easter egg of green pledges we were all hoping for? Here's the full industry reaction, as it comes in...
NO Brexit: edie readers throw weight behind remaining in the EU
The vast majority of edie readers have revealed they will be voting to keep Britain IN the European Union (EU) when the Referendum takes place in June, with more than 80% voting in support of Britain's position as a Member State.
16 New Year's resolutions for the green economy in 2016 - Part two
In the second part of edie's 2016 green business wishlist, we look forward to business model shake-ups, new water-saving technologies and Tesla's hotly-anticipated foray into the UK's energy storage market.
Unilever to be carbon positive by 2030
Global consumer goods firm Unilever has announced a new target to be carbon positive across its operations by 2030.
Autumn Statement and Spending Review: The green business wish list
Chancellor George Osborne will deliver his update on the Government's plans for the economy, known as the Autumn Statement, in Parliament today. The hopes are high, but expectations are seemingly low among green groups and industry.
Recycling 'just one thing' could spark London's resource revolution
A new behavioural change campaign has been launched to develop Londoners' understanding of what can be recycled, as the capital aims to hit recycling targets set by Mayor Boris Johnson.
Green Investment Bank steps closer to privatisation
Business Secretary Sajid Javid has confirmed plans to remove ministerial powers over the Green Investment Bank (GIB) in a major step forward towards the bank's controversial privatisation.
Labour frontrunner launches ambitious environmental manifesto
Labour leadership contender Jeremy Corbyn has announced a far-reaching green vision for his environmental policy in an announcement today (7 August).
London's economy facing 'great unknown' on climate risks, warns Assembly
Businesses in London are unprepared for the impacts of global warming and more than half of FTSE 100 companies have no strategy to deal with climate change.
EU asks for public advice on circular economy
The European Commissions has launched a 12-week public consultation to help inform its upcoming circular economy action plan, to be presented by the end of 2015.
Isle of Lewis residents look forward to renewables windfall
Residents of the Isle of Lewis can expect to bank £36m over the next 25 years thanks to Britain's largest community-owned wind farm, completed this week.
Lib Dems launch Environment Manifesto
The Liberal Democrats have released a dedicated 'Environment Manifesto' reiterating their commitment to 'Five Green Laws'.
Ecotricity criticises Cameron over 'green policy u-turn'
A film consisting of promotional footage of David Cameron with a flaming seat to his trousers and set to Blondie's 1988 hit 'Liar Liar' has been unveiled by green energy company Ecotricity on YouTube today.
'Smart money' flowing towards UK green infrastructure
The UK is in the midst of a green investment revolution, according to the head of sustainable finance at the Green Investment Bank.
Ecotricity secures £70m growth fund
Green-energy supplier Ecotricity has secured £70m through a refinancing deal with Aviva Investors, which it says will allow it to almost double its energy-generating capacity.
Natalie Bennett: Green economy remains 'missed opportunity' for UK
EXCLUSIVE: Green Party leader Natalie Bennett says the labelling of the coalition as the 'Greenest Government Ever' has become a "sick joke" after four years of mixed political messages, failed green policies and a lack of urgency on the transition to renewable energy sources.
Making the world a better place: 8 reasons we LOVE sustainability
Valentine's Day is a time for reminiscing about love. In keeping with that tradition, here's a short list of reasons why our readers love working in sustainability. Keep up the good work!
Sustainability still seen as an optional extra, says MD
EXCLUSIVE: Sustainability is still seen as something that's "nice to have rather than essential" for big businesses - an assumption which is stifling the UK's transition to a green economy.
Power to the people: Green Alliance calls for more public involvement in UK environmental policy
Green Alliance has launched a new strategy focused on giving citizens a greater say in the nation's green infrastructure plans.
Green Investment Bank fills community-scale renewables funding gap
The UK Green Investment Bank (GIB) has today (7 November) announced a £200m lending programme for community-scale renewable energy projects in the UK.
UK and US not living up to 'green' reputations
The green credentials of the UK and US economies are vastly overrated when compared to their actual performance, a recent report has found
Labour Conference: Miliband prioritises green economy in 10-year plan
Labour leader Ed Miliband has pledged to create one million green jobs as part of a 10-year plan to make Britain a global leader in clean technology and renewable energy.
In Conversation with MillerCoors' Kim Marotta
Great Beer, Great Responsibility is the sustainability spirit of MillerCoors. America's second-largest beer company reached record lows for its water and energy consumption last year, and it has already surpassed all of the environmental stewardship goals it set out to achieve by 2015.
UK political parties urged to include green pledges in election manifestos
Campaigners including National Trust and Greenpeace ask politicians to demonstrate their commitment to the environment.
Macallan whisky distillery set to benefit from £74m green energy project
A £74m biomass combined heat and power plant will help fuel a well known whisky distillery and power more than 20,000 Speyside homes, in Scotland, thanks to backing from the Green Investment Bank (GIB).
Davey forces Osborne to back down over fourth carbon budget
The Chancellor has been forced to abandon his calls for the fourth carbon budget to be diluted after the Government announced today that, having listened to the business sector, the UK will retain the fourth carbon budget in its current form.
Financial barriers continue to block green innovation, says EEA
A report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) has concluded that eco-innovation amongst small and medium enterprises (SMEs) faces 'major financial barriers' across the EU.
EU looks to maximise job opportunities in the green economy
If unveiling a new Circular Economy Package and launching a new Green Action Plan for SME's weren't enough, the European Commission has also announced a new initiative to highlight green job opportunities across the continent.
EU launches Green Action Plan for SMEs
On the same day as revealing a new Circular Economy Package, the European Commission has published its new Green Action Plan for SMEs in a bid to improve resource efficiency among smaller firms.
Resource use 'must be separated from economic growth', says UNEP
The unsustainable use of natural resources will continue to have a 'crippling' impact on price volatility and the environment unless economic growth is decoupled from resource consumption, according to a new report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
EXCLUSIVE: EU Commission pledges to 'think small first' with environmental legislation
The European Commission has admitted that it needs to do more to bring small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) 'to the centre' of its plans for a transition to a circular economy.
Greater Expectations: Rethinking investment towards a sustainable future
Progress towards a green and sustainable economy is way too slow and our perspectives on investment will need to undergo a radical shift if we are to give our businesses the right conditions in which they can deliver a truly prosperous future, says Michael Townsend.
Scottish distilleries in good spirits with new energy efficiency fund
A Bacardi distillery in Scotland is set to reduce its carbon footprint by up to 90% with an energy efficiency project it is able to bring to life with new funding from the UK Green Investment Bank (GIB).
More sustainable policies needed from the 'Greenest Government Ever'
This month sees the fourth anniversary of David Cameron's promise that the coalition would become 'the Greenest Government Ever'. But, as Charles Perry argues, blue and yellow have not made green, and those promises of action on climate change have dropped from sight.
Viridor breaks ground at £12.5m Kent recycling plant
Waste management and recycling firm Viridor has started work on a new Plastics Recycling Facility (PRF) in Rochester, which will boost the region's plastic recycling capacity by 75,000 tonnes a year.
Sharp rise in percentage of onshore windfarms being rejected
Figures show that the percentage of rejections in the UK jumped from 25-29% in 2009-12 to 41% in 2013.
VIDEO: Skills gap a major barrier to accelerating green economy
EXCLUSIVE A skills gap in those driving sustainability within their businesses is partly to blame for the lack of acceleration towards a green economy, according to two leading sustainability professionals. Scroll down for video.
VIDEO: Political parties need green ambition of the late 1980's says Tony Juniper
EXCLUSIVE The UK political ambition towards the green economy must revert back to its position in the late 1980's and early 1990's, says Tony Juniper. Scroll down for video.
Leading cultural change through senior leadership
Senior leadership is acknowledging that societal and environmental challenges are bigger than us all, says John F Brock
UN report: Investment in forest conservation will accelerate sustainable growth
Sustainable economic growth can be accelerated by investing $30bn per year in tropical forest conservation, according to a new UN report.
Budget 2014 response round-up: Who said what
Today's Budget saw the Chancellor cap carbon tax and once again favour economic recovery over environmental resilience. Stirring up mixed reaction across industry, here's a rundown of who said what.
Budget 2014: U-turn on Carbon Price Floor will 'muddy an already confused landscape'
The future of the Carbon Price Floor has come under the spotlight this week, with concerns that the Chancellor George Osborne may freeze the policy in today's Budget.
UK GIB invests £20m in new energy-from-waste centre
UK Green Investment Bank (GIB) is investing in a new £250m energy recovery centre to be built in Teesside.
EEA to focus on resource efficiency in 2014
The European Environment Agency's (EEA) focus for 2014 will be on staying within the limits of the planet's natural resources.
Waste industry 'in doldrums' over Defra disengagement
Waste industry leaders have voiced grave concerns over plans by Defra to cut back its involvement in the sector following an announcement by the new resource minister Dan Rogerson this week.
EU climate change Ministers set out low carbon vision in Brussels
European Cabinet Ministers responsible for energy and climate change have come together today to set out their vision for a low carbon economy.
In conversation with Bupa's Andrew Smith
Taking note of the health impacts of climate change and environmental destruction, this week edie talks to Bupa's head of sustainability strategy Andrew Smith, who explains that the current economic situation is offering businesses a great opportunity to provide solutions that deliver resource and monetary savings.
Global Commission launches 'New Climate Economy' project
A project examining how stronger economic performance can be supported by good climate policy has launched today, by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate.
In conversation with UPS' Peter Harris
In this week's 'In conversation' edie talks to UPS' director of sustainability for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Peter Harris, on why there isn't enough long-term thinking when it comes to sustainability and how electric vehicles could be the technology to revolutionise the economy.
London's 'booming green economy' driving recovery
London's green economy is "bucking national trends" and has continued to grow over the last five years, according to a new report.
In conversation with Whitbread's Chris George
Chris George, head of energy and environment at UK hotel, restaurant and coffee shop operator, Whitbread, tells edie that the biggest 'green innovation' isn't green at all and why he'd like to have a beer and talk science with Einstein.
EXCLUSIVE: Easy access to personal impact data will drive a green economy
Having access to information about our own environmental impact is vital to revolutionising the economy and encouraging greener choices, says TUI's group environment manager James Whittingham.
In conversation with HW Fisher's Jae Mather
This week we talk to HW Fisher's director of sustainability, Jae Mather, who explains that many people in environmental and sustainability fields may have gained "lofty degrees" but often lack the fundamental practical skills that contribute to a sustainable society.
EU progressing towards green economy but long-term focus needed says EEA
The global economic crisis, soaring commodity prices and growing awareness of humanity's impact on the environment have pushed the 'green economy' concept into mainstream policy debate, says the European Environment Agency (EEA).
Obama's climate change action plan could swing in favour of UK
US President Barack Obama's recent pledge on climate action could create a ripple effect in the UK, placing strong pressure on the Government to reinstate its 'greenest ever' commitments.
The Obama effect: will the UK up its climate game?
If US President Barack Obama continues to make a strong case for climate action, there will be increasing pressure on our own prime minister to follow suit, observes Gareth Kane
Ditching low carbon investment could drag UK back into recession
Infrastructure investment worth £180bn and equating to 12% of GDP is at risk because of the Government's unclear commitment to a low- carbon economy, according to a report released today.
In conversation with Aviva's Zelda Bentham
Aviva's Zelda Bentham talks to edie about what areas of sustainability the insurance company is focusing on and why climate change sceptics are "brave".
Three-quarters of Europeans willing to pay more for eco-products
Almost 80% of European citizens are willing to pay more for environmentally-friendly products, according to a survey from the European Commission.
In conversation with AkzoNobel's Chris Cook
AkzoNobel's Chris Cook tells edie how the difficult economic climate is actually driving better use of resources and that innovation on its own isn't enough to revolutionise the economy "we also need to create a mindset change".
Green Investment Bank invests £635m in first year
The Green Investment Bank (GIB) invested £635m in its first year of operation but recorded a net loss of £6.2m, according to the bank's first annual review.
UNEP report: Firms must adapt to changing environment to secure private sector
The future of the private sector will "increasingly hinge" on the ability of businesses to adapt to the world's rapidly changing environment, according to a new report.
In conversation with Anglo American's Samantha Hoe-Richardson
edie talks to mining giant Anglo-American's head of sustainable development & energy Samantha Hoe-Richardson on the importance of demonstrating that "green equals efficient and resilient" and that sustainability professionals must get connected with the commercial challenges facing a business and the people dealing with them.
In conversation with Legal & General's Debbie Hobbs
Legal & General's sustainability manager, Debbie Hobbs tells edie about the challenges of embedding sustainability across an entire supply chain and how sustainability professionals need to "educate, support, encourage and monitor".
EXCLUSIVE: EU Commission to focus environmental efforts on SMEs says Potocnik
Small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) will be one of the European Commission's top priorities in its effort to reduce resource consumption and the EU's environmental impact, says the European Commissioner for Environment.
In conversation with Eurostar's Peter Bragg
This week we catch-up with Eurostar's head of environment and energy, Peter Bragg, on why we should all take European high-speed rail instead of short-haul flights and why consumer engagement in environmental issues has declined.
EEA's Jacqueline McGlade leaves after 10 years as executive director
The European Environment Agency (EEA) has announced that Jacqueline McGlade will end her second term as the agency's executive director.
Environment Secretary Owen Paterson takes case for waste direct to investors
A strong business case for waste was put forward today during a government-hosted summit which brought the investment community together for the first time to discuss how to stimulate growth in the sector.
UK Environmental Trade Association signs deal to access Chinese market
The UK's Environmental Industries Commission (EIC) has today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chinese Society of Environmental Sciences (CSES), aiming to ease UK environmental firms' access to Chinese markets.
EU Ministers meet in Dublin to discuss environmental policy
EU Environment Ministers will meet over the next two days in Dublin to discuss EU policy on resource efficiency, air pollution and climate change.
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