South East Futures: What Does Clean Growth look like in the South East?

The Government has committed to cut UK emissions 68% by 2030 and has a target to be Net Zero by 2050. This, combined with the outcomes of COP26 later in the year, will shape the future operating environment for business for years to come.

As we recover from the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and look to the future and COP 26, it is clear that achieving the net Zero target is emerging as a key priority, area of focus and influence on consumer behaviour and an opportunity for business.

We have an unprecedented opportunity to build back responsibly and for business and public sector organisations to take climate action that creates positive outcomes for our economy and communities.

We want to focus on what this really means for the South East economy and how organisations can take collaborative action towards achieving net-zero carbon and climate resilience in the region.

The day will feature a keynote address from Sir Jonathan Porritt – renowned sustainability activist and writer on how we can still achieve economic growth and progress for the South East economy through clean technology, new models of economic growth, investment and innovation.

We will hear from Andrew Griffith MP as the UK's Net Zero Business Champion and bring together a number of local South East representatives through a series of debate panels -showcasing existing activity to deliver clean growth and to consider where the future opportunities lie for the South East in this new economy.

This session will educate, inform and consider the role we can play in the public and private sector to support the transition to NET Zero, to meet the UK targets in place and how we can embrace this moment to recover and grow a future economy in a sustainable and considered way.

This session will precede the SELEP AGM which provides an opportunity to learn more about the work of the South East LEP over 2020-21 and, in particular, how we have supported the South East business community during the pandemic and into recovery.

The South East LEP connects with business leaders, public sector decision makers, senior education and skills professionals, to encourage growth and investment in the South East.

To keep our partners secure and safe, this event will be online only, held via Zoom. Please share with your networks and we look forward to seeing you there.