Scottish and UK ministers have agreed to establish two ‘green freeports’ in Scotland.
The green freeport model in Scotland adapts the UK government’s freeport model to fit the needs and interests of the Scottish economy – helping deliver a net-zero economy while supporting innovation, trade and inclusive growth. Applicants in Scotland are required to contribute towards a just transition to net-zero emissions by 2045, delivering net-zero benefits and creating new green jobs.
A finalised joint prospectus and joint assessment process is expected to be published in March with winning bids announced over the summer.
In response to the announcement, Stuart Wallace, chief operating officer at Forth Ports, which owns and operates seven ports on Scotland’s east coast as well as the port of Tilbury in the UK, confirmed that the company plans to participate in the process. “A Firth of Forth green freeport will catalyse the decarbonisation of Scotland’s major industrial cluster, creating 50,000 new, high-quality jobs in renewable energy, manufacturing, sustainable fuels and construction.”
