Panel reveals how the region is striving for a green revolution

Last week, The Business Desk was joined by an innovative panel at Zen Metro, who are leading the way towards net-zero targets.

Sponsored by the Worcestershire LEP, the exclusive lunch revealed how a range of sectors are responding to sustainability targets and reimagining their companies values.

Gary Woodman, in conversation with Anna Cooper

Gary Woodman, CEO of Worcestershire LEP explained how the LEP has launched an energy strategy for the county, to help create a low-carbon economy.

By engaging with businesses, the LEP is trying to bring everyone along on its journey to net-zero. Creating programmes that offer help with investing in green energy changes.

The audience heard from Tom Denton, head of sustainability at Birmingham Airport about how it plans to reduce its emissions by 60% over the next four years.

Tom Denton

The airport launched its sustainability strategy which aims to support airlines to reduce their airport associated emissions.

It will also takes steps such as renewing its heating and cooling infrastructure, switching to 100% green tariff electricity and sourcing up to 40% of the electricity used through solar power.

Andrew Swain

Andrew Swain, group sustainability manager at IM Properties has also launched a sustainability strategy which it is applying to projects such as its Peddimore development and its Blythe Valley scheme.

Attendees heard how IM Properties has committed to be net-zero carbon company by 2030, with all of its developments being net-zero ready.

It aims to inspire sustainable thinking from all those working for and with IM and will collaborate with local communities to understand what current and future communities need.

Lesley Holt

Rounding off our panel, Lesley Holt, director of acceleration & adoption at WM5G discussed how it is using technology to initiate sustainable changes.

Through initiatives such as the Green Innovation Challenge, Lesley explained how start-ups and SME’s were able to develop cutting edge technology to reduce emissions and accelerate their ideas.

Anna Cooper, The Business Desk’s West Midlands reporter said: “As the West Midlands works towards WM2041, our panel of experts demonstrated how businesses are leading the way to net-zero.

“This cross-sector discussion revealed how important it is to consider ESG as customers, staff and investors expect more.

“There is still a way to go for the region to reach these ambitious targets, with many companies at different stages of their sustainability journey.

“But listening to each panelist, the green revolution looks bright.”