The Vital Role of the UK Ceramics Sector - Priorities for the Future
The UK ceramics sector stands as a cornerstone of the nation's economy, providing an essential foundation to numerous key industries. As we navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape, it is imperative that the new Labour Government acknowledges the crucial role of this sector in UK manufacturing and the journey to net zero. Our collaboration with British Glass highlights the significance of our industries, and together, we want to emphasise the urgent need for strategic governmental support.
1. Establishing a Clear and Long-term Industrial Strategy
A robust industrial strategy is essential to valuing UK manufacturing and supporting reshoring efforts. The ceramics sector is integral to the UK’s manufacturing capabilities, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. A well-defined, long-term strategy would provide the stability and confidence needed for businesses to invest and grow within the UK.
2. Developing Effective Carbon Leakage Mitigation Policies
Carbon leakage remains a significant challenge as industries strive to reduce emissions. Implementing effective mitigation policies is crucial as currently the progress made by UK manufacturers is being undercut by overseas competitors which of course leads to increased emissions elsewhere. However, implementing a UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) should not be done out of step with the EU CBAM.
3. Securing Our Energy Supply
The security of our energy supply is paramount to the sustainability of the UK ceramics sector. Preventing irreparable damage to manufacturing assets requires significant investment in low-carbon energy generation methods and critically distribution of lower carbon energy to the diverse locations of manufacturers across the UK.
4. Ensuring Competitive Energy Prices
Competitive energy prices are essential for the UK ceramics sector to thrive. As we transition to low carbon fuels, it is critical to ensure that there are no levies on gas that disproportionately impact our industry.
5. Building Decarbonisation Infrastructure
Decarbonising the ceramics industry requires substantial infrastructure development, particularly for sites located outside established clusters.
6. Securing Funding for Decarbonisation
Achieving net zero emissions is a formidable challenge that demands substantial funding. For decades we have seen UK industry decarbonising by simply moving offshore.
7. Improving Trade Policy
As product imports grow outside the EU, improving trade policy is critical to maintaining the competitiveness of the UK ceramics sector.
8. Attracting Young Talent
The future of the ceramics sector relies on attracting and developing young talent. We need to promote skilled job opportunities and career pathways within the industry.
9. Building Britain
The UK brick, clay roof tile and clay pipe industries must be at the heart of renewing the UK’s housing stock and other building projects.
The UK ceramics sector is a vital part of the nation's economic fabric, and its success is crucial to the broader manufacturing landscape and our environmental goals. By addressing these key priorities, the new Labour Government can ensure that this essential industry continues to thrive and lead in the transition to a sustainable, net-zero future.
We urge policymakers to recognise and act on the fundamental importance of our industries, to secure a prosperous and sustainable future for all.