Having grown up on my stepdad’s farm, previously worked as Parliamentary Officer for the NFU and now represented a largely rural constituency for almost thirteen years, I have always had a deep connection to the environment. Many of my hobbies embrace the outdoors, including sailing and walking, and I have always been a major advocate of the Road to Net Zero, highlighting the frontline role that our region can have, and already is having, in the ‘Green Revolution’ that will help us tackle carbon emissions and embrace a cleaner, greener, healthier model of life.

That’s why I was delighted to participate in Climate Hope Action In Norfolk’s ‘Climate Change is here – what now?’ event this past Friday in Wymondham.

In front of a wonderfully rowdy crowd in a packed Wymondham Central Hall, I welcomed the chance to debate this key issue for us all with those from across the political spectrum. I made the case that we won’t tackle global warming by Davos summitry or green anarchy criminal damage, but rather by pursuing ‘Green Growth’ – highlighting some of the great, pioneering work already being driven forward by our Science, Research, Technology and Innovation sectors, including right here in the East at the likes of the Norwich Research Park, Easton Food Hub and Hethel Engineering Centre.

Mid Norfolk and the East’s role in the ‘Green Revolution’ will not only help shape our world’s future. It will also create thousands of new jobs in some of the fastest growing and most exciting sectors of today and tomorrow – spreading prosperity and breathing fresh life into our local communities and services.

I am determined to do all I can to help Mid Norfolk embrace that role and help local households and businesses made their way forwards on the Road to Net Zero.

To learn more about my work on Net Zero and the environment, please visit my website here.