University of Aberdeen: University supports North East Scotland Green Freeport bid

The University of Aberdeen has thrown its support behind a major regional alliance bid to transform the region into the ‘Net Zero Capital of Europe’.

Professor George Boyne, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, added his backing to the formal bid launched today (Friday 10 June) by a major regional alliance for green freeport status for Aberdeen and Peterhead.

The University is one of the suppprters of the North East Scotland Green Freeport consortium applying to secure one of two ‘freeport’ locations that will be announced for Scotland later this year.

A Green Freeport is a large zoned area that includes a rail, sea or airport and which can benefit from tax and other incentives. They are designed to boost innovation, growth and create new green jobs.

Professor Boyne said:

“The North East Scotland Green Freeport bid represents a major opportunity for our region, and for the University, in terms of developing innovation and skills across many important aspects of the energy transition.

“Through our Aberdeen 2040 strategy we have a clear ambition to equip individuals and industry with the skills needed as part of the journey to a net zero future, and through our Centre for Energy Transition we are harnessing the expertise of our world-leading academics to deliver technological innovation that will support industry and promote economic growth.

“We are proud to work with our partners across the north-east on this bid as we believe that the Green Freeport has the potential to be transformative for the region, Scotland and the UK.”

The North East Scotland Green Freeport bid represents a major opportunity for our region, and for the University, in terms of developing innovation and skills across many important aspects of the energy transition.”
Professor George Boyne, Principal and Vice-Chancellor