Net Zero and ESG are two of the hottest topics for North East businesses to consider today. While some are taking advantage of opportunities that have arisen with the decarbonisation agenda, many others haven’t, with some not having any clear sense of how they can do so or what they should be doing.

Businesses have a huge part to play in helping the UK reach the target of net-zero carbon before 2050. Companies can use less energy, create less waste, switch to cleaner sources of power and work more sustainably. They can also innovate, developing products and services that drive the decarbonising efforts. And those in the supply chain are critical to success.

ESG commitments are helping businesses collaborate with partners, suppliers and customers in the race towards Net Zero. But some businesses have found it difficult to secure financing or attract talent if they cannot demonstrate adequate environmental credentials or commitments. And pressure can be exerted on supply chains to comply with ESG commitments which can mean missing out on contracts.

Insider’s Net Zero & ESG breakfast event will set out the key priorities for North East companies, providing valuable insights into how best to achieve ESG commitments. Expert speakers will provide practical advice and new ideas to boost sustainability.

We will aim to answer questions such as:

• What are the core principles underlying the Net Zero and ESG agenda?
• What examples of Net Zero innovation are there in the region?
• What practical measures can businesses adopt to boost their ESG credentials?
• How can businesses in a supply chain comply with OEM demands on Net Zero?
• What financial assistance and incentives are there for businesses to tap into?

SPEAKERS

Graham Purvis
Managing Director, Robson Laidler

Katrina Appleyard
Innovation Manager - Sustainability, Innovation SuperNetwork

Simon Colvin
Partner, ESG Lead, Weightmans

Jessica Cook
Programme Lead, Net Zero North East England Partnership

Paul Irvine-Rhodes
Head of Sustainability, GREGGS

Laura McGrath
Director of Dustainability & Community, Shelborn Asset Management