West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin has today launched an ambitious new strategy to supercharge growth in the green economy, positioning the region as a UK leader in clean technology and sustainable innovation.
The Green Economy Cluster Action Plan sets out a clear pathway for expanding the region’s fast-growing low‑carbon industries, with projections showing the green economy will grow by £3 billion in the next year alone, powered by rapid advances in climate technology, clean energy, and green infrastructure.
According to the plan, around 20,000 new jobs could be created across West Yorkshire by 2030, driven by continued investment in home energy upgrades, low‑emission transport, and renewable energy solutions. The sector already supports over 53,000 jobs and contributes more than £8 billion to the local economy.
The action plan outlines nine key priorities designed to accelerate growth, create high‑quality jobs, and tackle climate change as the region works towards its target of net zero by 2038. It addresses long‑standing challenges such as skills shortages, early‑stage finance gaps, and varying levels of access to international markets, while placing strong emphasis on inward investment and global trade opportunities.
Mayor Brabin launched the strategy during a visit to Test Consulting, a Leeds‑based company helping businesses worldwide reduce emissions, meet environmental standards, and transition successfully to net zero.
Commenting on the plan, Mayor Brabin said:
“West Yorkshire is leading the way in green industries - from home retrofits to clean energy and electric transport.
“This plan is about building on that success and unleashing the potential of this thriving priority sector.
“We’re creating good jobs and backing local businesses to supercharge growth and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”
The plan forms part of West Yorkshire’s Local Growth Plan, unveiled earlier this year, where the green economy was identified as one of the region’s six high‑potential growth sectors. The Combined Authority is reinforcing this through Skills Bootcamps, and its Fair Work Charter, ensuring that emerging green jobs are secure, well‑paid, and rewarding.
With the region’s clean‑tech and sustainability sector growing at pace, the new action plan stands to position West Yorkshire as one of the UK’s foremost centres for green innovation, investment, and skilled employment.
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