Sustainable Glasgow, a consortium led by Strathclyde, this week launched its report into how the city aims to become one of Europe’s most sustainable cities in the next 10 years.

The report, believed to be the first of its kind in the field of sustainability, is the culmination of a year-long study which began at the University.

The unparalleled strategic approach taken by the city will enable Glasgow to reduce its carbon emissions by 30% within 10 years while at the same time creating jobs, tackling fuel poverty and regenerating the city.

It is estimated the green energy projects will bring in £1.5billion of new investment into the city during that period.

Recommendations in the report include initiatives such as the:

• creation of systems to turn the city’s sewage and municipal waste into biogas
• creation of urban woodlands in the city’s vacant land – literally making Glasgow greener
• development of a district heating system for the city- starting in five identified zones
• increased use of biogas and electricially powered vehicles
• phasing out electrical, coal and oil heating across the city
• development of highly efficient natural gas/biogas fuelled Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems
• development of a smart grid system
• and projects to engage with the citizens of Glasgow to encourage behavioural change

Launching the report was Steven Purcell, Leader of Glasgow City Council, who was joined by Jim Mather, Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism, Professor Jim McDonald, Principal of the University, and Joel Scheraga from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, along with other consortium partners and more than 150 industry leaders.

Glasgow’s Council Leader also unveiled the next stage of the project which includes the creation of an Energy Masterplan for the city – a first for the UK.

The Energy Masterplan will form the framework for the definition and delivery of efficient and sustainable development of low carbon energy solutions across the city.

The new Board and framework of Sustainable Glasgow was also announced, as well as several projects already committed to the initiative including the new Southern General Hospital and New Campus Glasgow.

Speaking at the launch Councillor Steven Purcell said the council was committed to working with public and private sector partners and local communities to develop a greener and prosperous future for the ‘Dear Green Place’.

He said: "Climate change is one of the biggest challenges we face over the next decade but it is also a complex challenge as we balance our increasing demand for energy with the need to lower carbon emissions, use renewable energy technologies and continue apace with the city’s economic regeneration effort.

"The answer lies in developing a strategic city-wide and integrated approach with key stakeholders that understands our energy consumption, projected future use and how this can be provided in a sustainable way to meet the needs of all citizens, businesses and communities alike.

"The recommendations of the Sustainable Glasgow research sets out how we can achieve this step change in reducing carbon emissions and provides Glasgow with an opportunity to deliver these innovative projects, create jobs and become a centre for excellence for developing sustainable energy solutions."

With the city centre of Glasgow having the highest density of energy consumption in Scotland, the proposed energy systems to be implemented are designed to support each other and integrate areas such as renewable energy, district heating, combined heat and power, biogas, biomass, energy management, energy efficiency, sustainable transport and smart grids.

Announcing the Scottish Government’s commitment to the project, Jim Mather said, "The Scottish Government supports this ambitious initiative which will help us realise Scotland's goals on clean energy, green jobs creation, energy efficiency and tackling climate change. We hope the Sustainable Glasgow approach is one that can be replicated in towns and cities across Scotland."

Professor Jim McDonald, Principal of the University, said: "Scotland has a tremendous opportunity not only to be a world-leader in renewable energy technologies, but to improve quality of life and create long-term investment and jobs. Innovative research and training have a critical role to play in securing the UK's energy future and driving down carbon emissions.

"I am proud that the University of Strathclyde and the City of Glasgow are taking a lead in this vitally important field – demonstrating what can be achieved when government, universities, business and communities work together towards a common goal."

Capital investment for the projects will come mainly from the private sector and a number of commercial organisations have already indicated their interest.

Jim McPhillimy, Group Services Director, Scottish and Southern Energy, one of the consortium partners, said, "SSE is proud to be part of Glasgow’s visionary transformation into one of Europe’s most sustainable cities. We want to help make sure Glasgow’s sustainability credentials are fully recognised at a national and international level and we are well placed to partner Glasgow City Council in realising that ambition.

"Our purpose is to provide the energy people need in a reliable and sustainable way, and our core values include sustainability – a value we share. That is why we are locating centres of excellence in green energy in the city and we look forward to being part of this exciting future because we believe ‘Sustainable Glasgow’ will bring real environmental, economic and social benefits within a very short period of time. We are delighted to play a full part in helping realise this ambition."

George Kirk, Project Director, Clyde Gateway, ScottishPower, one of the consortium partners, said, "ScottishPower is committed to investing in a low carbon future and is excited to be a partner in Glasgow's Energy Masterplan, which is a leading concept. A Masterplan approach will ensure the co-ordination of all the appropriate groups to help deliver economic growth and development of the city and, at the same time, delivering the challenging carbon reduction targets that we face. ScottishPower has already developed an Energy Masterplan with Clyde Gateway and it is a natural step to broaden this approach as a partner in Sustainable Glasgow."

The Sustainable Glasgow Initiative is a consortium consisting of the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow City Council, Scottish and Southern Energy, Veolia (Source One), Scottish Enterprise and Blitzer, Clancy & Company. Additional partners, including Scottish Power, are now coming on board to help make the sustainable city a reality.

Speaking about the project from a global perspective, Joel Scheraga, Senior Advisor for Climate Adaptation at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, said, "The Sustainable Glasgow Initiative is a model for cities around the world. Its visionary leaders have painted a picture of a vibrant and sustainable urban environment that will improve lifestyles and opportunities for Glasgow’s citizens. They are taking a holistic approach to city planning that offers the opportunity to protect human health and the environment, create jobs, attract new businesses, produce and use energy more efficiently and meet the challenge of climate change – all at the same time. The world will be watching and learning from your experiences in Glasgow."

Further information can be found at www.sustainableglasgow.org.uk