Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended the ECA industry conference in May. It was fantastic to see so many members and industry representatives there.

The theme of this year’s conference was ‘developing our industry by working together,’ and I feel that everyone is fully on board in the effort to drive positive change in all areas that affect our industry. Central to this theme of working together was, of course, that of sustainability and energy conservation and the opportunities and challenges our industry faces as the world focuses on meeting carbon reduction targets.

It was fitting then that the conference marked the signing of an important agreement between the ECA and the HVCA to work together fully in the vital area of sustainability. The new commitment seeks to recognise the benefits that can be achieved through a joint approach in terms of industry representation and the provision of expert advice.

The ECA looks forward to working with the HVCA to help members take advantage of the commercial opportunities created by the sustainability agenda.