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This masterclass is part of a series of events run by the Coventry University Clean Futures Catalyst programme.
This masterclass is offered by Clean Futures in collaboration with Sustainability West Midlands.
At a local level, the West Midlands Combined Authority plans to become a net zero economy by 2041 and to achieve this has set out five-year plans and has numerous associated frameworks and policies including their Circular Economy Routemap. Alongside policy drivers, the benefits of becoming a more circular business are numerous and can include reduced greenhouse gas emissions as a result of virgin materials and water saved, waste diverted from landfill and incineration, hazardous waste eliminated, jobs created and additional sales. Research from DEFRA suggests that businesses could save £3 billion annually through short-term investments by making their processes more resource efficient.
The masterclass will be delivered by Anna Bright (Chief Executive) and Andy Whyle (Associate) from Sustainability West Midlands (SWM). SWM have been established for over 22 years with the mission of making the West Midlands more sustainable, fairer and greener for all. They are an independent, not-for-profit membership organisation.
Anna has been working with organisations to improve their sustainability for over 20 years and has a private sector background in water, waste and wastewater management. She has worked with businesses, universities, colleges, local authorities, the health sector and the West Midlands Combined Authority to help shape the way that they mitigate and adapt for climate change. Anna is on the board of the Midlands Net Zero Hub, the Midlands Engine Green Growth Board and she is a Trustee for the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust.
Andy is a sustainability specialist who has over thirty years’ experience working in a multinational corporation (Ricoh Company Ltd.) and with their supply chain. His specialisms cover sustainability leadership, circular economy, natural capital development, networking and collaboration. Andy has provided training for businesses on behalf of Leicestershire Growth Hub, Warwickshire County Council, and Telford & Wrekin Council, focussing on SME engagement in net zero and sustainability.