Wednesday 7 December 2022

London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, will be urged to do more to help businesses meet the capital’s Net Zero target by 2030.

Later today, Mark Jenkinson, Chair of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)’s Environmental, Sustainability & Green Growth Committee, will give evidence to the London Assembly’s Environment Committee on “A Green and Just Transition for London’s Businesses”.

The London Assembly is scrutinising the Mayor to see how the Greater London Authority and London businesses can work together to help combat climate change.

For this to happen, it is vital that London businesses are given the incentives and support to become more environmentally friendly without suffering economic damage during this volatile trading period with businesses recovering from the pandemic and the implications of Putin’s aggression in Ukraine.

Mark Jenkinson will make points to Assembly Members:

1. The need for a more concerted focus around retrofitting to ensure the Mayor’s target of net zero by 2030 is reached.
2. Encourage the GLA to consider working jointly with local councils to help support SMEs meet net zero targets. At present, local councils are stretched to provide the help SMEs need as they endeavour to become greener and more sustainable. A coordinated approach between councils and the GLA would help to champion these efforts.
3. A long term, strategic approach to addressing green skills gaps in the capital which will catalyse a transformation. A recent Skills Survey by LCCI found that nearly half (46%) of London businesses said they do not have access to all of the skills they need to lower their carbon emissions. For businesses to become greener, it is imperative they have access to the necessary skill sets. The GLA can and must use its powers to plug skills gaps and support the future provision of green skills in London.

Without action on retrofitting, skills and adequate business support, we will not be able to meet Net Zero targets and achieve our collective aim of a greener London.

In advance of the Assembly hearing, Mark Jenkinson said:

“The London Chamber strongly backs the Mayor’s demand for the capital to be net zero by 2030 – but for this to happen, the Mayor and businesses need to work together on retrofitting our homes, our schools, our hospitals and our business premises. We need action to help councils support small businesses to meet the climate change challenge and we need to finally end the skills gaps that are stopping London’s environmental businesses meeting its full potential in aiming for Net Zero.

“Time is running out to stop the worst effects of climate change – and businesses are up for the challenge. Together – the Mayor and business working together – London can reach Net Zero”.

ENDS