Eco-minded West of England workers - from the food sector to construction and everything in between- will receive expert advice on how to reduce their companies' carbon footprint, thanks to a brand-new Skills Bootcamp launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris.

The Skills Bootcamp in sustainability is a completely free nine-week course to help budding business brains slash their companies' emissions. Participants will receive training, go on site visits to some of the biggest and best sustainable firms around the West of England, and get support to implement a bold plan to get their companies' emissions down with clear, achievable goals.

It's all part of a £3.3 million investment across the West of England in Skills Bootcamps that in total will see 1,300 people learn new skills in the green economy as well as in construction, logistics and other areas.

Speaking at the bootcamp launch, Metro Mayor Dan Norris pledged that the West of England would continue to lead in the bid to slash emissions. Mr Norris said: "As part of my drive to meet our really ambitious net-zero by 2030 target, I'm proud to launch this brand-new Skills Bootcamp fully funded from the West of England Combined Authority I lead. At this Skills Bootcamp in sustainability, local people will benefit from the knowledge and expertise of some of the region's leading experts in supporting super West of England firms and their workers make the necessary changes to cut their emissions and so take advantage of the Race to Net Zero. It is not only about making the region cleaner and greener, it's also about driving jobs and growth too. So many companies I meet are keen to go green and under my leadership, we're giving them the tools to make this a reality".

Sarah Ives, Project Director at YTKO, who are delivering the courses, said: "This Skills Bootcamp is a fantastic resource to support businesses and those looking to start a career in this area. YTKO will be training people to better understand emissions, break down jargon, change behaviours, know how to create and sell a sustainable brand and much more. As a result, we'll see more businesses across the West of England implement strong, long-term strategies, gain more clients, increase employment and lead the way as a sustainable region".