News

Monday 7 June 2010

Sustaine welcomes new Chair

Award-winning environmental engineer to chair North East England's champion body for sustainable development

A specialist in energy and environment has been appointed as the new chair of Sustaine, the independent champion body for sustainable development in North East England.

Professor Paul Younger, who has just taken up post as Director of the Newcastle Institute for Research on Sustainability, based in Newcastle University, will help guide the continuing work of Sustaine as a catalyst for change, which provides strategic advice, promotes best practice, and sponsors innovative projects which contribute to sustainable development throughout the Region.

Paul said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as Chair of Sustaine. There is no more important mission in our times than ensuring that we develop our economy and lifestyles in a sustainable manner. I believe the North East currently stands on the cusp of a new golden age, in which we will re-direct the skills and knowledge from our former industries to develop new ventures which will harmonise human needs with environmental stewardship. Sustaine has a central role to play in making this happen, and I am thrilled to be able to place my own energy at its service".

Paul is an environmental engineer and hydrogeologist with an international reputation for his pioneering research and outreach programme of community-based projects to remedy the serious threat to the environment caused by water pollution from abandoned mines - work which won a Queen's Anniversary Prize for the University in 2005.

International recognition of Paul's work has seen him receive two honorary doctorates this year, one from the National University of St Augustine, in Arequipa, Peru, and another from the University of Oviedo, in northern Spain.

Paul is well-known for his work on the science and engineering of environmental sustainability, and is well-placed to lead Sustaine's work on sustainable development in the North East as a key priority and work with individuals, communities, organisations and businesses to adopt a commitment to developing a better quality of life for our future generations.

Alan Welby, Directory of Strategy at One North East, said: "I am delighted to welcome Paul Younger as the new Chairman of Sustaine. As a region we are continuing to make significant advancements in our low carbon economy including the progression of electric vehicles, and offshore wind development at the National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth."

"With his long-standing career and wealth of experience, I am confident that Paul will play an instrumental role in leading Sustaine as it continues to work strongly alongside regional partners to champion sustainable development here in North East England."

Councillor Paul Watson, Chair of the Association of North East Councils, said: "I welcome the announcement of Paul Younger as the new Chair of Sustaine. The sustainability agenda is a key priority for North East local government.

"The transition to a low carbon economy and the development of new green industries are an important part of our vision for the future, not only to tackle climate change, but as an integral part of our plan for economic recovery.

"Local government, through the Association of North East Councils, looks forward to working with Professor Younger in his new role at Chair of Sustaine, to help achieve a more sustainable future for North East England and a better quality of life for our citizens and communities."

Paul is 47, married with three sons. He is originally from Hebburn, Tyne and Wear.

For more information, please contact Shruti Jain on 0191 261 3933 or email shruti.jain@northeastcouncils.co.uk

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