Opinion Piece by Phil Laycock, Director at UKREiiF
The world of sustainable development is abuzz with change, and the recent appointment of Claire Coutinho as the new secretary of state at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment. As we gear up for the Tomorrow’s Net Zero conference, her appointment and the subsequent calls for a comprehensive housing retrofit programme underscore the timeliness and relevance of the discussions we’re about to have.
From my vantage point as the Director at UKREiiF, I’ve observed the ebb and flow of the industry’s response to net zero challenges. The synergy between government initiatives and industry efforts has always been the linchpin for meaningful progress. Coutinho’s leadership, I believe, will be instrumental in bridging any existing gaps.
Simon Allford’s call for a well-funded National Retrofit Strategy resonates deeply with many of us in the industry. The vast number of energy-inefficient homes in the UK is not just a statistic; it’s a clarion call for action. The Tomorrow’s Net Zero conference provides the perfect platform for stakeholders to discuss, deliberate, and devise strategies that align with the government’s renewed focus under Coutinho’s leadership.
Moreover, the commitment expressed by Simon McWhirter, deputy chief executive of the UK Green Building Council, is a testament to the industry’s readiness to collaborate and drive change. It’s heartening to see industry leaders and bodies eager to work hand in hand with the government, especially when the stakes are as high as achieving our net zero targets.
In conclusion, as we convene for the Tomorrow’s Net Zero conference, let’s harness the momentum generated by these recent developments. The timing is impeccable, and the stage is set for us to not just discuss the future but to actively shape it. With Coutinho at the helm and the industry’s clear vision, I’m optimistic about the strides we’ll make towards a sustainable and net zero future for the UK.
**Note:** The Tomorrow’s Net Zero conference is scheduled to take place from Tuesday, 12th September to Wednesday, 13th September 2023. The event promises to be a landmark gathering, with hundreds of major industry players in attendance. These stakeholders will engage in exhaustive discussions on net zero, ensuring that the conference is not just a meeting of minds, but a catalyst for actionable change. For those interested in being part of this pivotal event, you can [book your tickets here](https://www.built-environment-networking.com/event/tomorrows-net-zero-2023/#tickets).
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