Tech Nation has announced 30 scale-ups which have been selected to join its new Net Zero programme.

Announced in Alok Sharma’s speech today at London Tech Week, the companies come from across the UK.

The cohort is collectively tackling climate issues in construction, farming, robotics, and e-mobility.

They are are building electric vehicles, creating vertical farms and animal-free dairy products, measuring environmental footprints, and improving manufacturing and recycling supply chains.

In an accompanying report published today, Tech Nation reveals that the UK leads Europe for the number of Net Zero companies, at 323 compared to 207 in France (35% less) and 150 in Germany (53% less).

The government-backed initiative is the first of its kind, and is supported by partners BNP Paribas, who bring their expertise to scaling up climate action.

In addition to the 30 companies joining the Net Zero cohort, four additional ‘Fellows’ will join the programme.

The Fellows selected are net zero companies at a later stage of funding, or are alumni of Tech Nation growth programmes. These firms will have access to the Net Zero coaching sessions and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.

Business and Energy Secretary Alok Sharma said: “As part of our plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050, we are funding green startups and unleashing the talent and creativity of entrepreneurs across the country.

“Innovative companies like these will help us to create green jobs and build back better as we recover from the coronavirus pandemic.”

Gerard Grech, Chief Executive, Tech Nation, added: “The UK’s Net Zero sector already leads Europe for VC investment, at £336mn, and is home to 323 tech companies that are working hard to reduce carbon emissions globally. Scaling such businesses can be hard, which is why we are delighted to launch a new programme focused on businesses at this stage of growth from all over the UK, especially given the impact they will have on climate change and their drive towards a net zero economy.”