Release date: October 21, 2021
Emissions from a starting diesel engine
The Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (GM LEP), together with an alliance of companies and partner organizations, has launched Bee Net Zero – an ambitious commitment to make the metropolitan area the easiest place in the UK to go green.
Thousands of businesses in the Greater Manchester area are encouraged to start their own green journey on BeeNetZero.co.uk, a new platform that displays the advice and support available to help reduce their carbon emissions.
The initiative was launched at the Greater Manchester Green Summit 2021, which highlights the people, organizations and communities in Greater Manchester who are taking positive action to tackle climate change while looking ahead to what remains to be done.
Greater Manchester’s goal is to become carbon neutral by 2038, 12 years ahead of the national target, as part of its ambitious five-year environmental plan that was put in place two years ago. A greener economy in Greater Manchester will create or secure over 256,000 green jobs in the region across all sectors by 2038.
Ahead of the global climate conference COP26, Bee Net Zero will enable companies in the Greater Manchester area to make their full contribution to supporting national and international efforts to combat climate change.
The initiative is supported by an alliance of partners from across the Greater Manchester area and implemented by the Growth Company. regional economy beyond the pandemic.
In addition to practical support and advice, future plans for Bee Net Zero include:
- Advice on switching to a renewable energy provider
- Support in switching to electric vehicles and installing charging points
- Promoting active travel for the Greater Manchester workforce
- Support in the use of CO2-free energy sources, including photovoltaic solar energy
- Establishment of a broad “Green Business Alliance” for Greater Manchester
Steve Connor, Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (GM LEP) leader, said: “Our goal is to make Greater Manchester the easiest place in the UK to become a net zero business. Businesses play a huge role in the transition to a carbon-free economy and it is important that we make this process as simple as possible.
“Bee Net Zero brings together in one place the networks, organizations and support programs available across the metropolitan area and nationally, bringing companies that want to go green but are unsure where to start. We are now calling on companies in Greater Manchester to begin their net-zero journey. “
Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor said: “In order for Greater Manchester to become the UK’s leading green metropolitan area, we need to help all businesses develop a net zero carbon plan so that every business is a green business and every job they create is a green job. Bee Net Zero provides support and guidance while inviting more companies to join us on the Net Zero journey.
“Companies that invest in CO2 reduction ensure a future worth living for all of us and create new opportunities that improve the quality of life for everyone in the Greater Manchester area. A green economy is a level economy that in turn creates a healthier, happier place to live. “
Amy House, Head of Green Technology and Services at GC Business Growth Hub said, “All companies have a role to play in managing the climate crisis. In the wake of a global pandemic, we are aware of the challenges and pressures facing thousands of executives in the Greater Manchester area. We must do our part by providing support, guidance and advice on the net zero transition and connecting buyers with green tech providers to complete the path.
“Decarbonization is a challenge, but there are also opportunities for companies to take advantage of it – to save costs or reach new customers. When introducing Bee Net Zero, we encourage everyone who wants to learn more to get in touch. “
Partners who support the Bee Net Zero Initiative are: GM LEP, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Business Growth Hub, Electricity North West and the Manchester Climate Change Agency.
