This idea was generated as a result of the Chain Reaction 'Stronger Communities, Stronger Economy' discussion group held in Sheffield on 26 March 2009 (hosted by New Start Magazine)

Sheffield must match its talk about being a green city with action. It isn’t at the forefront of green technologies, yet these are an opportunity to create new jobs for local people.

We should be investing in renewable energy projects that generate jobs as well as electricity, and change the tariff system to create better incentives for community-based energy projects. Local food programmes should also be supported.

In the last recession, the city produced three reports emphasising the importance of sport, cultural industries, and the environment. If as much had been invested in the environment as in sport and creative industries the city would be very different today.

Environmental projects such as South Yorkshire Energy Centre are now at risk of closure. There are still many in local government who haven’t woken up to the threat of climate change.

We need to look for the people who are energetic and enthusiastic about creating a better environment, and tap into their passion – people like the Sheffield Black and Ethnic Minority Environmental Network, for example, and those who are involved in direct action.

To discuss further visit: http://chain-reaction.ning.com/forum/topics/start-with-climate-change-and

For more information on the Sheffield meeting click here: http://www.chain-reaction.org/index.php?/chain-reaction/Stronger_communities_Sheffield/