Green future for Sheffield
OPPORTUNITIES for businesses in Sheffield to contribute to its transformation into a sustainable low carbon city have been discussed by leading industry figures from across the region.
In a workshop-based event held by WSP’s environment and energy team in conjunction with Pro-Sheffield at Carillion’s The Square building in Sheffield, key members of the city’s property, planning, legal and architecture sectors, along with members of Sheffield City Council, highlighted the requirement for unity among the city’s stakeholders and business community during the downturn.
The group also highlighted the need for a central body and framework to deliver ‘eco-transformation’ and a centre of excellence or ‘green village’ in Sheffield.
Strong leadership and clear city-relevant policy were emphasised and also the importance of Government-incentivised actions which are commercially and financially viable in order for the city to achieve its potential.
Daniel Dowling, from WSP’s sustainability and climate change team, said: “Population growth, urbanisation and climate change represent three of the greatest challenges for sustainable development and the UK’s cities sit firmly at the centre of this debate.”
Mr Dowling said it was important for Sheffield to improve its ramking in the Sustainable Cities Index, which ranks the UK’s 20 biggest cities on their social and environmental performance.
The index places Sheffield seventh.
“The city’s heavily industrial and manufacturing past obviously has an impact on this rating and provides both obstacles and opportunities for the future,” said Mr Dowling.
During the session, attendees also explored and addressed key opportunities and issues that Sheffield needs to tackle, including financing, marketing and knowledge sharing and the cost effectiveness of going green in the current economic climate.
Mr Dowling added: “The debates highlighted many positive factors about Sheffield including the work being undertaken by the university students into areas such as wind turbines.
“It was clear from the enthusiasm of the group that there is a real ambition to drive Sheffield forward into a sustainable, low carbon future and there was a general consensus that if this is to happen, we need to have the confidence to lead the way and to take risks.”
