Cut carbon emissions and create 300 jobs, Leeds council told

LEEDS City Council is being urged to cut its carbon emissions and create hundreds of jobs at the same time.
Environment campaign group Leeds Friends of the Earth says if Leeds City Council insulated buildings and switched to renewable energy, it could create 301 jobs as well as slashing climate-changing emissions.
The group commissioned independent research by environment experts Carbon Descent.
New jobs could be available as loft laggers, architects, plumbers, builders, electricians, plasterers and insulation specialists – with new administrative, transit and warehouse positions also created to support the installation of insulation and renewable energy.

Sam Veitch, of Leeds Friends of the Earth, said: "With the economy in such a sorry state at the moment, Leeds could really use the boost from 301 new local jobs insulating homes and installing renewable energy.

"If Leeds City Council fully insulated buildings and fitted them with green energy, it would create jobs, slash Leeds's carbon dioxide emissions, reduce people's fuel bills and make homes much more snug."

A council spokeswoman said: "We welcome the research as it shows the potential economic benefit of tackling environmental issues. The Leeds Climate Change Strategy, which will be launched in July, identifies insulating homes and supporting the transition to a low carbon economy as two of our main priorities."