As plans are unveiled that could see Glasgow become one of Europe's most sustainable cities in the next 10 years, the Fraser of Allander Institute's Economic Commentary papers, which are supported by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, have taken a further look into the potential long-term impacts - and benefits.
Believed to be the first of its kind in the field of sustainability, the report is the culmination of a year-long study by Sustainable Glasgow Initiative, and clearly demonstrates the commitment to working with public and private sector partners and local communities to develop a greener and prosperous future for Glasgow.
It is believed that the unparalleled strategic approach taken by the city will enable Glasgow to reduce its carbon emissions by 30% within 10 years while at the same time as creating jobs, tackling fuel poverty and regenerating the city. It is also estimated that the green energy projects will bring in £1.5billion of new investment into the city during that period.
Paul Brewer, senior partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in Edinburgh, commented: "Technology is continuing to open up new sources of renewable and low carbon energy, helping to reduce carbon emissions, but it is only through a strong commitment from both the public and private sectors together with local communities that a step change can be achieved. There are still a number of barriers to reducing carbon emissions in our cities such as misalignment of incentives, planning issues and perhaps most critically developing financing mechanisms to move from initiative to implementation.
"We see the Sustainable Glasgow Initiative as uniquely placed in the UK to address these challenges and make a sustainable Glasgow a reality."
Recommendations in the report include initiatives such as the:
Richard Bellingham, Programme Director for the Sustainable Glasgow Initiative, summarises the key points and next steps for this city-wide strategy.
"Among the next stages for the project will be the creation of an energy masterplan for the city - a first for the UK - and the development and implementation of supportive public policies. This will be a significant step in developing a strategic city-wide and integrated approach with key stakeholders that understand not only the city's energy consumption, but the projected future use and how this can be provided in a sustainable way to meet the needs of all citizens, businesses and communities."