Capturing the low carbon investment

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to look at developments in the drive for open innovation initiatives.Design/methodology/approachThe paper looks at the business opportunities for low‐carbon innovations and technology.FindingsA recent study predicts that the global market for low carbon technologies could reach £2,000 billion per annum by 2030. The same study has also revealed that the UK may be in a relatively strong position to take advantage of this growing need for low carbon innovation. It highlights that many UK companies in this sector, especially SMEs, are often seen as true innovators who are leading the way in the development of cutting edge technology, and points to the fact that the UK is second only to the USA in terms of attracting Venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) investment in low carbon technologies. Commissioned by Shell Springboard, the publication of the study coincides with the announcement of the 2009 National Winner of the annual Shell Springboard Awards, which reward the best small business ideas for combating climate change.Originality/valueThe paper provides a useful insight into developments in the drive for open innovation initiatives.