Sustainable economy and inclusive growth

Emissions baseline

Emissions from commercial buildings are estimated to account for roughly 14% of GHG emissions.

Growing a sustainable and inclusive economy

Bradford is committed to fostering a sustainable and Sustainable Business inclusive economy that enhances well-being, supports Increasingly, Bradford District’s businesses are understanding the value of businesses, protects nature, improves food security and embedding sustainability into their operations. Investing in energy-efficiency measures and transitioning to renewable energy sources can realise cost attracts skills for long-term success.

• England’s low-carbon economy employed 185,000 workers in 2018 and is projected to rise to 1.18 million by 2050, however a skills gap Key Green Technology and Services (GTS) areas in Bradford include wind, alternative fuels, building technologies, and geothermal energy, accounting for 63% of activity.
• Analysis from the Confederation of British Industry found that the net zero sector is growing three times faster than the overall UK economy, with a 10% growth reported in 2024.
• The West Yorkshire Green Economy Report 2024 values the region’s Green Technologies and Services sector at £8.1 billion and is expected to grow 37% by 2026.
• Over 71,000 green jobs could be created in West Yorkshire by 2050, with Bradford forecasting 12.5% growth in green sector jobs by 2025/26.
• It is estimated that 7,787 direct ‘green’ jobs will be required in Bradford by 2030 and will grow to 12,331 by 2050. This doesn’t include employment in land and nature.

West Yorkshire’s productivity is 14% below the national average, with significant deprivation in some areas. Reports highlight that sustainable, inclusive growth can boost productivity, reduce waste, and support health by creating liveable cities and improving nature access. Clean technologies concentrated in less productive areas offer environmental and economic benefits while addressing inequalities.

Mitigation and adaptation actions

• Sustainable business support
• Low carbon and nature friendly procurement
• City Village and Southern Gateway development
• Create sustainability benchmark for UK Cities of Culture
• Pilot Ecosia search engine
• Explore Carbon Assessment, Budgeting and Carbon Accounting - including Scope 3
• Explore possibility of EV salary sacrifice scheme at Bradford Council