I’m delighted to be asked to be asked to contribute to the Conservative Environment Network’s essay collection, Net Zero Northern Powerhouse.

The North of England has a proud history as the pioneers of the first industrial revolution. We are now set to be the innovators and engineer, driving the new green industrial revolution. 

From the UK’s world-leading offshore wind sector off the North East and North West coastline, to the EVs that are manufactured in Sunderland and the hydrogen that is produced in the Tees Valley, the North has the technological excellence that the UK will need to reach net zero. The government should support these innovative green businesses in our area to grow, develop new clean technologies, and create thousands more jobs.

My essay sets out my recommendations to carry out a comprehensive skills review, and to develop net zero skills by reforming training standards to make it easier for people to transition between industries and improve their skills. Other topics contained within my essay include making the case to fund three tidal barrages in Cumbria and building a net zero institute of technology in the county.