BUSINESSES across the region have been urged to “grasp the nettle” and make the most of the opportunities represented by the low carbon economy.

New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, which was last year chosen by the Government as the country’s “Green Pathfinder” LEP, with a remit to play a lead role in the development of the low carbon sector, is staging a ground-breaking conference on the issue tomorrow.

The event, which is to be held at Dunston Hall, near Norwich, with all 150 places now booked, will showcase businesses which are already rising to the green economy challenge and highlight opportunities for growth as well as witness the launch of a Green Pathfinder Manifesto.

John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, which last year launched its own Low Carbon Development Unit, urged business to use the opportunity to make a real difference.

“Norfolk and Suffolk have some of the UK’s most dynamic, innovative and ideas-driven businesses and academics, and the Green Economy Pathfinder project means they can lead the way in helping to transition the green economy of the UK.

“The UK is facing a severe economic test.” he added. “Our green businesses can and must grasp the nettle of opportunity and play a lead role in restoring growth. Reducing the deficit and re-balancing the economy are urgent priorities.

“Therefore barriers to growth must be removed to shift the economy to a more resilient and resource-efficient path.”