Agenda item

Anne-Marie Parkinson, LEP Investment Programme Manager presented a report which provided the Board with an update on the arrangements being put in place nationally and locally in respect of the United Nations Annual Climate Change Conference COP 26 which was due to take place in Glasgow for a two week period from the end of October to mid November 2021. The conference was a major milestone in international efforts to combat climate change.

It was highlighted that COP took place each year, however every fifth year the conference was more significant in its decision making and this year was that year. A programme of activity had been published online and each day had a theme.

Senior leaders and business representatives from the North West would attend the conference to participate in discussion panels around the theme for a particular day. Anne-Marie provided a detailed update on the plans for the conference and in particular the itinerary for the North West which was scheduled for the 10 and 11 November.

In addition to the main conference, to show case what the whole country was doing to tackle climate change, a domestic campaign would also take place with the principle aim to gather narrative around projects that are being delivered to help combat climate change and support the government's net zero ambitions.

A proposed North West programme of activities had been developed by a steering group which comprised of NW LEP representatives in consultation with the wider North West Net Zero group. The programme included a series of events and site visits in October to coincide with a national Roadshow, gathering 125 case studies to be promoted and organise three North West events (Green Zones) being aligned with COP26 themes.

Councillor Alyson Barnes informed the Board that they would be having their own Climate Change Conference in Rossendale on the 10 November 21, a £1 million fund had been set aside to spend over the next 4 years to support various activities such as tree planting, rewilding and supporting businesses. 

Tony Attard informed Board members as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next year, part of the celebrations included the planting of trees for the Green Canopy, it was noted that the rate of tree planting in Lancashire was very low and behind the national average. Businesses in Lancashire were being encouraged to get involved in activities like this, for example Panaz Limited were planting a tree in Ribble Valley for every 100 meters of fabric sold with the Ribble Valley Trust, the trust were looking for more businesses to get involved. It was requested that the Board received updates on the preparations for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee moving forward. 

Amanda Melton suggested a press plan could be considered in terms of joining up the work and showcasing what was being done. Mark Rawstron highlighted that this was about raising Lancashire's profile in this sector as a whole, and it was proposed that once Anne-Marie has received all the submissions for case studies, there would likely be some themes that would arise showcasing Lancashire's expertise. From this it would be possible to generate some effective PR and generate key messages for the world of business in Lancashire and to support and generate inward investment.

Resolved: That the LEP Board: