Minister promotes low carbon business in Yorkshire

Minister for Yorkshire and the Humber Rosie Winterton has outlined how Government hopes to support the region's business community in the transition to a low carbon economy.


Speaking at a regional low carbon summit, Ms Winterton told business leaders that the government believes there are four key areas where change needs to take place to put industry on a more sustainable track.

She said the first step must be energy efficiency which would bring environmental benefits as well as saving businesses and consumers money.

A new generation of energy infrastructure favouring renewables, nuclear, carbon capture and storage for coal plants and a more efficient smart grid are also needed, she argued.

The UK must also move towards becoming a world leader in the development and production of low carbon vehicles such as electric cars and policies on training, R&D and procurement must make the UK the best place to locate low carbon business, she said.

“The move to a low carbon economy is not an option – it is inevitable,” said Ms Winterton.

“I want to see businesses in the Yorkshire and Humber region benefiting from the opportunities this change offers.

“The UK has set world-leading targets for CO2 reduction by 2050, we must build the skills, knowledge and business environment that will keep Britain at the forefront of low carbon business and investment.

“For Yorkshire and the Humber there are particular opportunities in areas which already provide employment and revenue and offer opportunities for growth, such as renewable energy, construction and alternative fuels for vehicles.

“The Government recently launched a package of measures for ultra-low carbon vehicles in the UK and I hope to see this region benefiting from the expertise we have, making Yorkshire a great place to do low carbon business.”

Sam Bond

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