THE Leader of Solihull Borough Council has been named as the ‘Net Zero Champion’ on the board of Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).
Coun Courts, who is also the Combined Authority’s portfolio lead for environment, energy and HS2 and a GBSLEP board director, will drive the organisation’s work helping businesses decarbonise to align with the regional and national net zero commitments.
He will also highlight how businesses can maximise the opportunities arising from Clean Growth, as innovative new products and sustainable practises can attract new investment and create new jobs.
Recent analysis from the Midlands Energy Hub indicates that up to 168,000 low carbon jobs could be created by 2050 to deliver on national Net Zero targets.
“Our region’s strengths in the low carbon sector means we have an opportunity to play a central role in achieving our commitment to regional and national net zero targets,” said Coun Courts.
“GBSLEP has already demonstrated how working with partners in the private, public and academic sector is crucial to strengthening low carbon enterprise in the region.
“Targeted investments such as the Birmingham Energy Innovation Centre at Tyseley Energy Park are already making a difference.
“I’m interested in how we can continue this brilliant partnership working to open up new opportunities for our businesses to support new investment, creating jobs and drive innovation.”
Tim Pile, chair of GBSLEP said: “It’s a perfect fit that Councillor Courts is our very first Net Zero Champion as he has been a long-time advocate for sustainability and the environment.
“Clean Growth provides much-needed opportunities for businesses and individuals, as our society and economy is beginning to recover from the pandemic.
“Heads of state and climate experts will agree further coordinated action to tackle climate change at the COP26 summit in Glasgow.
“The leadership of Net Zero Champions at local and regional levels of decision making has therefore never been more important.”
