Governments around the world are getting serious about combating climate change. Targets for cutting carbon emissions and plans for achieving this are being prepared. The UK has one of the most ambitious targets, with the government aiming to reduce our carbon emissions by at least 60% below their 1990 level by 2050.
To achieve this target, we will need to make fundamental changes in the type of energy we use and how we use it. This will have a major impact on how we work, how we live and how we travel. Manufacturers will face a major challenge to make substantial improvements in their energy efficiency, requiring many of them to rethink their processes radically. Companies in some industries will also be concerned about the impact of potential environmental taxes (and other measures) on their competitiveness.
Our report, 'Delivering the low carbon economy: business opportunities for UK manufacturers' looks at three markets in detail – low-carbon energy, motor vehicles and energy efficiency. The UK has significant strengths in all these areas and the potential to make major inroads in these markets. As one of the leading nations in taking action to combat climate change, the UK should also be well placed to take advantage of the opportunities associated with it.
Climate change offers significant opportunities for businesses
Climate change will create major opportunities for business to develop, make and sell low-carbon products and services.
Many businesses are now asking:
- How can we capitalise on the move to a low carbon economy?
- How do we turn an energy efficient idea into a profitable commercial product?
- How do we access the low carbon funding and support available to our business
- How do we turn low carbon business opportunities into a competitive advantage?
Our one-day climate summit, on 26 November at St. James' Park, Newcastle, aims to address these questions - we will put your business together with energy experts, industry leaders, funding providers and potential investors in the north east.
> find out more about our low carbon climate summit