Our new Strategy for a Sustainable Future sets out how the region could achieve energy resilience, as well as improving the region’s environment, and move to a circular economy – a principal based on repurposing by-products and minimising waste.
The document was approved by members at our latest meeting and could now go through a public consultation process in 2026 before a final version is approved later in the year.
York and North Yorkshire Mayor, Daivid Skaith, who chaired the meeting said:
“By leading the charge, we can deliver lower energy bills, cleaner air, and significant economic growth. Not just for our region, but for all the UK. We are taking a decisive step forward on that journey today with our Strategy for a Sustainable Future.
“This strategy, which has our ambition to become England’s first carbon negative region by 2040 at its core, is the direct result of comprehensive and extensive collaboration with our partners. We are planning to consult communities, providing a chance to have your say, next year.
“York and North Yorkshire deserves these skilled, green jobs, warm and comfortable homes with lower energy bills, and a cleaner environment. The strategy is our commitment to listen to our communities and deliver.”
The paper sets out a strategy for how York and North Yorkshire would secure energy independence, and lower bills for residents through the provision of ‘locally-owned’ energy sources such as geothermal, where heat is sourced naturally from below ground.
The region’s landscape would also play a part in natural carbon capture, supporting key sectors that are reliant on the environment, such as farming, food and drink manufacturing, and tourism. Meanwhile the move towards a circular economy would keep products and materials in use, whilst eliminating waste and pollution.
The Strategy for a Sustainable Future will now be developed further to detail how the ambitions will be supported and delivered.
