Combined Authority accelerates work to transform region into a net zero carbon economy

A progress report on the transformative work being led by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to create a net zero carbon region by 2038 will be presented to the Climate, Energy and Environment Committee next Tuesday (July 19). 

The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, has allocated indicative funding of £40 million from the Combined Authority’s devolution deal with the Government towards the West Yorkshire Climate and Environment Plan. 

The Plan sets out how the region can radically reduce carbon and other harmful emissions, while also creating new green jobs, transforming transport and helping people and businesses to lower their energy bills. 

Members of the Committee will hear how work is accelerating on the first phase of actions including programmes to retrofit more homes with insulation and energy saving measures, protect more communities from the risk of flooding and expand on existing green skills and training schemes. 

Cllr Tim Swift, Chair of the Climate, Energy and Environment Committee and Leader of Calderdale Council, said: 

“West Yorkshire has an ambitious target of reaching net zero carbon by 2038 at the latest and it’s vital that work together as a region to accelerate our progress. 

“This transformative journey will bring huge benefits for everyone – more energy efficient and cheaper to run homes, clean and reliable public transport, and fantastic job opportunities for people at all stages of their lives. 

“The first phase of actions from the Climate and Environment Plan will build on the fantastic work already being carried out throughout the region, and ensure the positive benefits are felt by all communities.” 

Tracy Brabin, the Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:

"As Mayor, I made tackling the climate and environment emergency one of my key pledges to the people of West Yorkshire alongside creating 1,000 new jobs in the green sector for young people and improving the sustainability of housing.  

“The West Yorkshire Climate and Environment Plan will deliver on those priorities and ensure that we create a region where everyone in all communities can really feel the benefits of a net zero carbon economy.” 

The Climate, Energy and Environment Committee is made up of councillors from around West Yorkshire alongside representatives from business and organisations including the Environment Agency. 

For more information visit the Governance section of the Combined Authority website.