Green technology could bring jobs, investment and skills to Falkirk area
The Falkirk Economic Partnership heard about bold innovations, such as producing fuel from whisky waste and sugar beets, as well as plans to create better transport networks.
The partnership brings together people from Falkirk Council, the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise, Forth Valley College and business leaders and has ambitious plans for a ‘Just Transition’ towards a net zero carbon future.
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Hide AdMembers heard of progress on the Falkirk and Grangemouth Investment Zone, which includes proposals for a sustainable manufacturing campus in Grangemouth, focusing on capturing and using carbon.
It will also look at industrial biotechnology projects such as producing fuel from whisky waste and sugar beets.
Other plans on the table include a centre for excellence in green bus technology including hydrogen, community owned solar energy, green routeways and an outdoor art park.
It is hoped that these projects will boost Falkirk - and Scotland’s - economic recovery and revitalise town centres.
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Hide AdEnd of level four lockdown date 'unknown' says Nicola SturgeonFalkirk area projects share in £1 million Scotland Loves Local Fund
The Partnership meeting coincided with the release of the Scottish Government’s Climate Change Action Plan update which has reinforced the national commitment to carbon reduction.
Grangemouth has almost 30% of industrial emissions, Scotland’s largest port and is a significant base for logistics.
As such the town’s transition to net zero is crucial to Scotland reaching its carbon reduction targets by 2045.
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Hide AdThe Just Transition movement aims to enable the change to a net zero economy, whilst retaining economic prosperity and local jobs.
Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: “Covid-19 has had a devastating effect on the health, wellbeing and economy of our area in 2020.
"The Council and its partners recognise the need for action and are fully committed to ensuring that the Falkirk area emerges from the current crisis well prepared for a strong economic recovery.
“Focusing our plans on the transition to net zero carbon will ensure that once the current crisis is behind us, we can focus on a future that will preserve our area's prosperity and that our children can look forward to a prosperous, sustainable future.”