The North West is set to lead the way for low carbon innovation, skills and ‘green’ economic growth thanks to a new £14m programme announced this week (Aug 26).
ECO-I North West will benefit from collaboration between more than 360 businesses across Lancashire, Liverpool City Region, Cumbria, Cheshire and Greater Manchester, all aiming to boost the development of low carbon technologies and products.
The programme, led by Lancaster University, aims to support a green economic recovery in all sectors, working in partnership with the University of Central Lancashire, University of Cumbria, University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Manchester Metropolitan University.
An estimated 3,850 tonnes of carbon emissions will be saved by the investment, as well as giving North West businesses the chance to capitalise on the region’s strength in cutting-edge research facilities and skills.
A Government commissioned audit, showed the strong potential for significant growth opportunities for businesses in the event of a low carbon economy drive in the North West.
Dr Dion Williams, director of research enterprise and innovation at Lancaster University, said:
“Despite the ongoing economic shock of COVID we need to look forwards as a region towards recovery and future growth. The global markets for clean and sustainable products, processes and services are enormous and growing, and the opportunities for North West businesses are significant. Lancaster University, together with our partners are determined to support our region and our businesses to benefit from the green recovery and to establish the North West of England as a global exemplar for clean and sustainable growth.”
Supported by funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), ECO-I North West will underpin the decarbonisation of industry with new technologies and solutions, whilst maximising the voice and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
