How Innovation is Driving Economic Growth in Northern Cities

04 Mar 2026
Bury Theatre
Cities, Communities & Nature

The transition to a zero-emissions economy by 2050 demands unprecedented innovation, with over a third of the emission reductions relying on technologies not yet commercially available. This panel explores how innovation is transforming energy, transport, housing and industry and how Northern cities can leverage these changes to drive economic growth.

We'll discuss emerging technologies, scaling challenges and the critical need for digital sustainability platforms in tracking progress. Particularly the environmental footprint of digital innovation itself, addressing the vast water and energy demands of AI and data centers and how Northern hubs can mitigate these issues to lead sustainable economic renewal.
 

Moderator
Natalie Allen
Natalie Allen, Head of Business Partnerships - Leeds Beckett University
Speakers
Ed Whiting
Ed Whiting, Chief Executive - Leeds City Council
Ste Garlick
Ste Garlick, Strategic Lead for Decarbonisation & Retrofit and Manchester Lead Sustainability Champion - BDP
Ryan Case
Ryan Case, Public Affairs and Corporate Communications Manager (Europe) - Starship Technologies