Sustainability and net zero
Overview
Human activity since the industrial revolution - particularly the burning of fossil fuels - has driven climate change. The 2015 Paris Agreement created a legally binding international treaty on reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit climate change to 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels.
Kirklees Council declared a climate emergency in 2019, and following analysis by the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change agreed to reach net zero - i.e. no longer adding to the total amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane - and be climate ready by 2038. This is in line with the 2038 net zero targets agreed by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Yorkshire Leaders Board.
In 2022, the transport sector accounted for 28% of UK emissions with industry accounting for a further 19%. Business therefore has a critical role to play in meeting net zero targets - in the transition away from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources, in reducing waste and use of resources and in developing more sustainable solutions to transport goods and employees.
There are significant economic opportunities for Kirklees businesses arising from the transition to net zero. This includes being part of the renewable energy supply chain and developing sustainable construction methods as well as developing the role of the circular economy which reduces waste and supports refurbishment and recycling of materials and products.
Capitalising on this opportunity will require more businesses and their employees to acquire green skills. For Universities, Colleges and training providers delivering appropriate training courses can be challenging as there is often a lag in business/learner demand which drives funding.
