With just over a week to go before the inaugural Green Economy Conference takes place at Swansea Arena, council leaders from across South West Wales have announced the topics they will be addressing in the opening session.
Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change, Cllr Paul Miller, will be discussing the council’s involvement in clean energy transition projects and the development of the South West Wales Regional Energy Strategy.
Cllr Paul Miller said:
“The Green Economy Conference is an important opportunity to discuss how we can create a more sustainable and equitable future.
“I am deeply committed to supporting the development of a green, circular, and sustainable economy for South West Wales. This is essential for protecting our environment, but also for creating a prosperous and fair future for our communities.
“This event provides a key opportunity to consider the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a clean energy economy – to ensure a sustainable future for our planet and generations to come.”
He added that the Council’s strategic priorities reflect this commitment to sustainability, with a focus on promoting renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting sustainable businesses.
“We are engaged in a number of key regional clean energy transition projects including Milford Haven : Energy Kingdom (MH:EK), South Wales Industrial Cluster, Net Zero Industry Wales, Haven Waterway Future Energy Cluster, and the Celtic Freeport,” he continued.
“As we transition to a clean energy economy, we will create jobs while protecting the environment.
“Local government has a vital role to play by investing in renewable energy and promoting energy efficiency. In addition, we can also create new policies and regulations that encourage businesses and individuals to adopt green practices.
“I am proud of the great initiatives taking place locally to help deliver a thriving green economy.”
The Council’s commitment to decarbonisation led it to develop a Local Area Energy Plan seeking to develop a net zero energy system for Pembrokeshire by 2050, as the UK home of green energy.
Cllr Miller added that Pembrokeshire County Council’s engagement in the development of the South West Wales Regional Energy Strategy – looking at harnessing the region’s low carbon energy potential both on and offshore – is another important undertaking.
“This will deliver a prosperous and equitable net zero carbon economy which enhances the well-being of future generations and the region’s ecosystems, at a pace which delivers against regional and national emissions reduction targets by 2035 and 2050,” he said.
He added that he is pleased to be joining leaders from the other county councils in the region to discuss developments and initiatives across the whole of South West Wales.
“This event, with its exhibitors, innovative projects and keynote speakers, is the perfect platform to showcase our collective drive for a resilient, sustainable future for the region,” he said.
Also speaking in the opening session are Cllr Jeremy Hurley, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic Growth, Neath Port Talbot CBC; Cllr Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council; and Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, decarbonisation and sustainable development for Carmarthenshire County Council, who will highlight the crucial role the green economy plays in addressing the environmental challenges and fostering sustainability.
His address will showcase the power of collaborative working across the public private and third sector taking place across the region to realise opportunities within the green economy sector and inspire the next generation.
The Green Economy Conference and Exhibition is free to attend, with tickets available online now. It will be held at Swansea Arena on Wednesday, November 22, and aims to unite businesses and organisations from Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to share knowledge and create initiatives for a resilient future.
Zoe Antrobus, co-founder and managing director of 4theRegion, which organises the conference said:
“We’re delighted to welcome so much knowledge and expertise to the stage in Swansea Arena on November 22. The fact that key leaders from all the region’s county councils welcomed our invitation to speak at the opening session highlights how seriously our local authorities take the challenges and opportunities we all face when seeking to tackle the climate crisis.
“Whether you are a business owner keen to harness the environmental and business benefits of decarbonisation, a member of the public who wants to get their voice heard, or an ambassador for one of the numerous organisations working hard to ensure the wellbeing of our future generations, this conference is for you. Expect to be challenged, inspired, connected and informed.”
More information about the conference and booking links can be found here: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/green-economy-conference/
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