The inaugural meeting of the government’s Net Zero Council has taken place with leaders from banks, energy companies, technology and finance firms coming together with politicians.
Co-chaired by Energy Minister Graham Stuart and Co-op Group chief executive, Shirine Khoury-Haq, the council aims to support industry to cut emissions and develop greener practices.
It also aims to deliver on the government’s priority to find ways for British businesses to take advantage of renewable technologies on the path to net-zero – as well as exporting their expertise globally.
Key objectives for the council include: working to ensure sectors and companies have a pathway to net zero, including looking at the barriers and connections across sectors; leading a systematic review of the financing challenges and the respective roles of Government, industry and the financial sector in addressing them; and identifying key challenges facing SMEs in reducing their carbon footprints and supporting their transition with information and advice.
Siemens, SSE, HSBC, NatWest and Lloyds of London were among firms on the council – and will be meeting on a quarterly basis to ensure businesses are a key part of achieving net zero.
Energy Minister Graham Stuart said: “The Net Zero Council provides the high-level forum for government, business and finance leaders to work together to unlock the opportunities of the green transition.
“Tackling emissions can make businesses more energy efficient, improve UK energy security and, in turn, cut costs. It can open up opportunities to export UK developed solutions around the world, expand UK market share and create jobs.
“The UK has cut its emissions more than any other major economy and the Net Zero Council – meeting today for the first time – will ensure that leaders of UK businesses can help guide government and vice versa so that our environmental leadership translates into economic advantage.
“The Net Zero Council includes some of the most senior business and finance leaders in the country. I am grateful that such extraordinary people are prepared to contribute their knowledge, experience and talent for the benefit of both this country and future generations.”
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