Towards a low carbon economy
Industry and commerce contributes around 32% to Brighton & Hove's carbon footprint, or 398,000 tonnes per year.*
A low carbon economy can provide opportunities for a wide range of businesses, not just the ‘traditional' environmental sector. Businesses can benefit from a low carbon economy in two ways: diversify into new low carbon products or become more efficient in the way they work.
The value of a healthy and growing economy for people and business in the city is clear. There is significant scope in Brighton & Hove to develop the low carbon sector, helping to generate investment in environmental industries - while working towards a low carbon city over the longer term.
The city has a vibrant economy; many businesses have already recognised the need to reduce carbon emissions and are already improving their efficiency and cutting costs. This helps build their own and the city's competitive advantage and – for larger organisations – to meet the requirements of the Carbon Reduction Commitment. Many smaller businesses have signed up to 10:10 and made commitments through their environmental policy to reduce energy use. At the same time, the city is keen to develop the environmental industries sector, including supporting local green businesses and jobs. New skills are needed to support the growing renewables and environmental industries sector, and the city is well-placed with its two universities and City College to meet this need.
* Source: Carbon dioxide emissions within the scope of influence of Local Authorities,
DECC 2009 (formerly National Indicator 186 )
