North Yorkshire Mayor hosting Carbon Conference
He wants the region to become the first in England to become a carbon negative economy
A conference is being held today looking at how North Yorkshire could become England's first carbon negative economy.
Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith will welcome a range of experts to the Carbon Negative Conference to discuss how the region will achieve the target by 2040.
Around 200 delegates are expected at The Milner Hotel to discuss the opportunities of low carbon food and farming, investment in the region’s natural, sustainable resources, and community engagement in net zero projects.
Mr Skaith, who will address the conference, said: “York and North Yorkshire has the world-class universities, the natural resources and the ambition to be the first region in England to reach further than net zero, to a carbon negative economy.
“Since the region secured devolution, around £14m of programme funds have been allocated to unlock our unique and significant potential as a rural trailblazer. These include the £7m Net Zero fund, and pilots to identify investment potential in our natural assets and develop secure local energy networks in the region.
“My commitment to this agenda is why I’ve also invested £7m in our Carbon Negative Challenge Fund to support projects with the potential to attract investment in green energy.
“York and North Yorkshire is ready to lead the way in tackling the big challenges that the nation and the world faces. Our net zero programmes will show us how we can change the way we heat our homes, produce electricity and grow our food in a sustainable way, unlocking our potential for growth as a city region, rural powerhouse. I want residents to experience the tangible benefits of our ambitions, through cheaper energy and cleaner air.
“But most importantly, I want our ambitions for a carbon negative economy, to unlock growth in our modern and diverse economy. Growth that is sustainable for the environment and creates new and well-paid jobs for people in our region. Our first York and North Yorkshire Carbon Negative Conference will demonstrate how we can lead the conversation and the way forward.”