Scotland: Green industrial powerhouse
The nation is pioneering technologies that will bring global benefits
“Scotland is at the forefront of the global fight against climate change.” Kate Forbes, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy
In November, the world’s eyes were focused on the UN Climate Change Conference COP26. But why was such a landmark event held in Glasgow?
Gillespie, CEO at economic development agency Scottish Enterprise, “There are things we’re well known for, such as our preeminence in whisky and our role in the oil and gas sector, but there’s much more going on in our economy.” One area in the limelight is renewables, particularly in the North East of Scotland, which is becoming a hub for low-carbon technologies, he notes. “The North Sea has vast potential for green energy and a tremendous amount of innovation is happening, often based on our expertise in subsea and wider offshore engineering. The world’s first offshore floating wind farm is here, for example, and we’re developing technologies such as hydrogen and carbon capture and storage.”
Life sciences and digital technologies are other key sectors, states Forbes. “Increasing numbers of global corporates are choosing to establish their tech hubs in Scotland, because of our skilled labor.” Scotland is also home to the U.K.’S second-biggest hub for financial services, says Dawe. “We have hundreds of years of banking, insurance, wealth and asset management experience. However, the sector hasn’t stood still and has gained international acclaim in a number of emerging areas, such as technology and sustainability. Our success in attracting investment is down to a unique combination of factors, including access to talent and the recognition that it’s a great place to live and work.”
Much of the talent Dawe mentions is fostered by an impressive network of 19 universities, states Sir Anton Muscatelli, principal and vice-chancellor at the University of Glasgow. “Scotland punches well above its weight in higher education and research. We have some of the very best universities in the world and our research has a massive impact.” The nation is a hotbed for collaboration, enthuses Gillespie. “Innovation ecosystems are popping up all over the country. Examples include innovation districts where universities are connecting with business partners, Aberdeen’s Energy Transition Zone and Dundee’s Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc that is centered on sustainable mobility. The opportunities for Scotland to drive green innovation are enormously apparent.”
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