Net Zero North West has set out its manifesto for making the region the world’s first net zero cluster and harnessing the potential of the green economy.
Net Zero North West launched their roadmap for decarbonisation in the region at an event at Siemens’ Greater Manchester office on 4th April, with both Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram in attendance to give their support to the plans.
Net Zero North West is a collaboration of industry leaders, politicians and academic experts established to drive the region’s potential to become a global in industrial decarbonisation. Their manifesto sets out how a green economy in the region can create and safeguard over 600,000 jobs, and outlines actions needed to decarbonise industry by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2040. Research shows that the North West is the nation’s leader of manufacturing new, low-carbon technology, and has the highest number of potential jobs in green tech manufacturing
The roadmap for decarbonisation also outlines a £30 billion pipeline of live investable projects across energy efficiency, nuclear energy generation and improved rail infrastructure, with the opportunity for £207 billion to be invested in the region overall. At the heart of the plan is a call for increased government support and assistance to drive key technologies like hydrogen and Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS), develop enabling infrastructure, enhance regional communications, build appropriate skills and workforce, and provide overarching leadership to monitor progress and support project delivery.
Ged Barlow, Chief Executive at Net Zero North West, commented:
“Substantially decarbonising regional industry by 2030, and getting to net zero emissions by 2040, is an opportunity that presents significant economic benefits, both regionally and nationally. It will create and protect high value jobs and position the UK at the forefront of global industrial emissions reductions.
“Our plans underscore the importance of collaboration and collective action in addressing the challenges of climate change. By setting ambitious targets and working towards a common goal of sustainability, we can inspire other regions to follow suit and join the global movement towards a greener, more sustainable future.”
The Net Zero North West Manifesto is published in full on the organisation’s website here.
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