Free Darlington event to showcase net zero initiatives

Darlington: The Darlington Employers Environmental Partnership, or DEEP, is kicking off its first Net Zero Marketplace Event at the Dolphin Centre on February 21. It’s a great chance for local businesses to show off their energy-efficient products and initiatives.

They’re expecting around 30 stalls, so there’ll be plenty to check out. Seth Pearson, who runs Darlington Cares, mentioned that it’s a unique opportunity to connect with local organizations that can help other businesses find practical solutions.

DEEP started in early 2024, thanks to a suggestion from the Darlington Building Society. It’s pretty cool because it’s thought to be the first partnership of its kind in the UK, and they’ve already got over 20 members who meet regularly to share ideas and learn from each other.

The event will run from 10 am to noon in the Central Hall. It’s a perfect chance to network with other business leaders and see what everyone is doing to reach net zero.

Andrew Perkin from the Darlington Borough Council is excited about the event. He encourages businesses to take advantage of this opportunity. He said it’s fantastic to see local companies working together on sustainability.

He also pointed out that while there are some world-class companies in Darlington doing significant research, it’s crucial that smaller businesses and start-ups get involved too. The hope is that more businesses will join DEEP and find useful info to help them on their net zero journey.

If you’re interested in showcasing your sustainability efforts, you can reach out to Chelsea.Johnson@darlington.gov.uk for a free stall. Or if you just want to come by and see what’s happening, feel free to drop in!

Also, don’t forget that DEEP’s next ‘Network and Learn’ event is on January 29 from 9 am to 11 am at the Hopetown historic railway attraction. Members will learn about the sustainable features of this multi-million-pound development and get a tour of the site.