The local context

The transition to a low-carbon economy presents a major opportunity for our area: to build resilience, improve energy security, and create new green jobs. But to succeed, we need local action that matches the scale of the challenge — rooted in our landscapes, our communities, and our unique natural assets.

This includes playing our part in expanding clean energy infrastructure — from onshore wind and solar to offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, both fixed and floating. These technologies are essential to meeting the UK’s net zero targets, and the Biosphere is committed to supporting their development in ways that deliver benefits for nature, communities and the local economy.

Our agenda

We are working to make the North Devon Biosphere a leading example of climate resilience and clean energy transition in a rural context. Our priorities are to:

• Cut carbon emissions from land use, buildings, transport and business
  
• Accelerate investment in nature-based climate solutions
• Improve the energy efficiency of homes and workplaces
  
• Support local leadership and community-led climate action
• Enable responsible development of onshore and offshore renewable energy
• Restore ecosystems that help buffer the impacts of climate change

Current initiatives

We’re working with local partners to support businesses across the Biosphere to become more sustainable, resilient and future-ready.

Natural Capital Marketplace

This service supports the delivery of local climate and biodiversity goals by connecting landowners with funders and buyers of nature-based carbon and ecosystem outcomes. By supporting projects like woodland creation, peatland restoration and regenerative farming, it’s helping to unlock private finance for natural climate solutions. Find out more

Business Partner Eco Accreditation

Our eco-accreditation scheme encourages and celebrates businesses taking action on climate change and sustainability. From cutting emissions to supporting biodiversity, accredited businesses are helping to lead the shift towards a greener, more resilient local economy.

Energy Efficiency Support from 361 Energy

In partnership with 361 Energy, we’re helping local organisations reduce their energy use and lower their carbon footprint. Through tailored support, energy audits, and access to funding, businesses and community buildings are improving their efficiency and saving money while doing their bit for the climate.

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