News & Blog

Read the latest business news, blogs and thought leadership articles from our members, as well as updates on the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce's work in the city.

News & Blog

BCC responds to government’s net zero plan  

Posted: 19th November 2020

Commenting on the government’s net zero plan to tackle climate change, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: 

“As business communities restart and rebuild after the pandemic, Chambers are clear that the transition to net zero must be measurable, credible and fair. 

“The Prime Minister’s announcement is a step forward on this journey, but more detail and even higher levels of both public and private investment will be needed to ensure that we are able to meet the shared ambition of government and our business communities. 

“Business communities in our coastal regions will benefit significantly from a greater emphasis on offshore wind. Integrating local firms into supply chains will be vital in supporting investment and jobs of the future.  

“Decarbonisation remains crucial to our future economic recovery, but businesses will need to see more detail in the long-awaited Energy White Paper if we are to boost investor confidence. And if we are to build the supply chains needed to meet these ambitions here in the UK, clarity on the future of industrial strategy is also required.  

“While the impact of the pandemic has not diminished business communities’ desire to become greener, the pace of change will mean many firms will need support in the transition to cleaner technologies. Government should consider incentives to help businesses make the change without losing out, including business rates exemptions for green investments and compensation schemes for phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles.” 

Business Comment

Business Comment is the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s bi-monthly magazine. It provides insight on Edinburgh’s vibrant business community, with features on the city’s key sectors, interviews with leading figures and news on new business developments in the capital.
Read more here