Glasgow has been chosen to host COP26 if the UK’s bid is successful, as it strives to be the first net zero city.
The UK is bidding to host next year’s COP climate conference over two weeks at the end of 2020, in partnership with Italy.
It was today confirmed that the Scottish Events Campus (SEC) in Glasgow would play host to the event.
This comes after ScottishPower and Glasgow City Council revealed intentions to make Glasgow the first net-zero city.
Keith Anderson, CEO of ScottishPower, said the announcement is a “fantastic boost” for both Glasgow and the UK.
“Hosting next year’s COP will showcase our leadership position on the global stage,” he added.
The UK’s bid to host the event has been backed by some of the country’s biggest energy firms, including BP, Shell, Centrica, Drax Group, innogy Renewables UK, ScottishPower and National Grid.
Claire Perry, UK President for COP26 and former energy minister, said Glasgow is the right choice due to its sustainability and record for hosting high-profile international events.
“The UK is a world-leader in emissions reduction, having cut our emissions by over 40 per cent since 1990 – faster than any other G20 country since 2000. And we recently committed to go further, by legislating to reduce our net emissions to zero by 2050.
“In 2020, world leaders will come together to discuss how to protect our planet and set the direction for the years to come. Where better to do so than Glasgow, at the state of the art Scottish Events Campus.”
