Doncaster is leading the way in the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority drive for carbon neutrality by 2040.
The ambitious goal for Doncaster to be carbon neutral by 2040 is a full 10 years ahead of the national target.
We are in a great position to continue to drive environmentally friendly improvements in energy efficiency, and waste and recycling practices in domestic and commercial settings. An increasing awareness of the benefits of the circular economy and sustainability has resulted in the region becoming home to a new generation of recycling and environmental enterprises capable of turning waste from one sector into raw materials for another.
There is a clear link between clean energy and low carbon sectors and economic growth, with new jobs created in the energy and environment sector generating opportunities for higher skilled and higher paid jobs for residents. Higher incomes translate into higher spending power, boosting the local economy.
There are outstanding investment opportunities in the Doncaster area for new businesses who specialise in clean energy, environmental and waste management services, green technologies, green transport, carbon capture and storage. You will be in good company, joining the ranks of forward-thinking businesses such as Saica Natur, Energise Energy Solutions, CPH2, Ivoltz, Refurnish, Synetiq and ESC Global.
The carbon reduction goals are also driving fundamental changes in the way our power is being generated. The use of fossil fuels is being phased out and this is creating opportunities for businesses to invest in the plant and equipment needed to generate energy from renewable sources such as onshore wind turbines, solar panels, mine water heat pumps and biomass fuel.
A growing interest in environmental conservation and nature tourism is leading to new openings for the visitor economy, with internationally recognised habitats drawing visitors to destinations including Hatfield Moor, Denaby Ings and Potteric Carr. Active transport is also being encouraged to reduce carbon emissions from vehicles; over 1,000km of cycling and walking routes are planned.
Existing businesses and those looking to locate in the area can get help and advice from the Business Doncaster team about local and national grants and incentives as well as the availability of industrial units and commercial land. You will benefit from Doncaster’s central location and outstanding national and connectivity by road, rail, air, and sea. There is access to a large local workforce as well as R&D and training facilities for more specialised requirements provided by local universities, colleges, and the UTC.
Unity Yorkshire is Doncaster’s flagship infrastructure project and is one of the largest regeneration schemes in the UK. Work has now started on the transformational development of the 250-hectare brownfield site which will include the building of 3,100 new homes (by 2035), plus new retail, learning and healthcare facilities, as well as green open spaces and a 500-berth marina.
The project is committed to providing green infrastructure, networks, spaces, and places to maintain its ecological assets and habitats and has the potential to be one of the most advanced carbon capture and storage facilities in Europe, with associated education and research facilities.
This grant scheme could help Doncaster Businesses reach their net-zero aspirations in line with the UK Government targets and the Climate Emergency declared by Doncaster Mayor, Ros Jones.
Any SME business can apply for this grant worth up to a maximum of £3,000 and can use it to develop decarbonisation initiatives that will help your business become “greener” and ultimately a more environmentally aware organisation.
Applications will close on 30 September 2022.
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