Doncaster is leading the way in the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority drive for carbon neutrality by 2040, a full 10 years ahead of the national target.
We are in a great position to continue to drive environmentally friendly improvements in energy efficiency, and waste and recycling practices in domestic and commercial settings. An increasing awareness of the benefits of the circular economy and sustainability has resulted in the region becoming home to a new generation of recycling and environmental enterprises capable of turning waste from one sector into raw materials for another.
There is a clear link between clean energy and low carbon sectors and economic growth, with new jobs created in the energy and environment sector generating opportunities for higher skilled and higher paid jobs for residents. Higher incomes translate into higher spending power, boosting the local economy.
There are outstanding investment opportunities in the Doncaster area for new businesses who specialise in clean energy, environmental and waste management services, green technologies, green transport, carbon capture and storage. You will be in good company, joining the ranks of forward-thinking businesses such as Saica Natur, Energise Energy Solutions, CPH2, Ivoltz, Refurnish, Synetiq, ESC Global and Enviro Electronics.
The carbon reduction goals are also driving fundamental changes in the way our power is being generated. The use of fossil fuels is being phased out and this is creating opportunities for businesses to invest in the plant and equipment needed to generate energy from renewable sources such as onshore wind turbines, solar panels, mine water heat pumps and biomass fuel.
A growing interest in environmental conservation and nature tourism is leading to new openings for the visitor economy, with internationally recognised habitats drawing visitors to destinations including Hatfield Moor, Denaby Ings and Potteric Carr. Active transport is also being encouraged to reduce carbon emissions from vehicles; over 1,000km of cycling and walking routes are planned.
Existing businesses and those looking to locate in the area can get help and advice from the Business Doncaster team about local and national grants and incentives as well as the availability of industrial units and commercial land. You will benefit from Doncaster’s central location and outstanding national and international connectivity by road, rail, air, and sea. There is access to a large local workforce as well as R&D and training facilities for more specialised requirements provided by local universities, colleges, and the UTC.
Unity Yorkshire is Doncaster’s flagship infrastructure project and is one of the largest regeneration schemes in the UK. Work has now started on the transformational development of the 250-hectare brownfield site which will include the building of 3,100 new homes (by 2035), plus new retail, learning and healthcare facilities, as well as green open spaces and a 500-berth marina.
The project is committed to providing green infrastructure, networks, spaces, and places to maintain its ecological assets and habitats and has the potential to be one of the most advanced carbon capture and storage facilities in Europe, with associated education and research facilities.
undertaken by Beta Technology
This study highlights the opportunity for Doncaster to be at the forefront of growth in the maturity of hydrogen technology and understanding, whilst developing a local roadmap and implementation plan for a full-scale hydrogen refuelling station.
By working together with key stakeholders, we aim to bring Doncaster businesses together to cement the city’s role as South Yorkshire’s leader in hydrogen. In doing so, Doncaster can capitalise on the huge opportunity the sector offers for both reducing carbon emissions, driving green economic growth, attracting inward investment and increasing supply chain opportunities.
undertaken by McBains and Genecon
This study seeks to understand the opportunities presented by low carbon sector growth and which green technology sub-sectors provide the best economic opportunities for Doncaster. The study identified four key opportunities for low carbon growth in Doncaster, one of which was alternative fuels (including hydrogen). This work will inform Business Doncaster’s low carbon inward investment strategy, as well as identify current barriers to low carbon sector growth in the city, and outline a series of recommendations to address this.
Don't miss out on our latest news, updates and events - sign up here.
