UK business leaders tip clean tech as the next big thing

Business leaders are convinced that clean tech and renewables will emerge as one of the fastest growth sectors for the UK economy over the next decade, according to the results of a new government-backed survey.

The poll of more than 300 senior executives found that 43 per cent believe clean tech will be the UK's fastest growth industry up to 2020.

In contrast, 20 per cent of respondents predicted science and technology will deliver the highest growth rates over the next 10 years, while 15 per cent earmarked media and entertainment as the source of the next boom.

Science and innovation minister Lord Drayson welcomed the results, but warned that greater effort was required from both businesses and government to ensure the UK develops the skills and innovation necessary to support emerging clean tech firms.

"Clean tech and renewables will play a huge part in helping the UK economy to grow sustainably," he said. "But we need to do more to encourage innovation in these and other high-tech sectors."

The results of the survey were released today as the government seeks to drum up interest in its new iawards, applications for which end on 16 September.

The iawards are being touted as "the first ever government-backed awards to celebrate achievements in science, innovation and technology", and are seeking to promote innovative solutions to pressing social issues such as climate change, natural resource depletion and an ageing population.

The winners of the 13 categories will each receive support from UK Trade and Industry, as well as free public relations guidance designed to help them promote their business.