Showing the world that Aberdeen City Region’s energy industry is leading from the front

02 November 2016

Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils have unveiled a short film showcasing the ways in which the region’s energy industry is leading from the front, and embracing opportunities, despite recent challenges.

The film, which has been produced in association with Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce and supported by various industry bodies, is part of the wider programme Journey of the Drop, produced by ITN Productions in partnership with the World Petroleum Council (WPC). It explores the future of the oil and gas industry and examines the unique contribution it makes to society and mankind.

Key industry figures Sir Ian Wood of Opportunity North East (ONE) and Colette Cohen, Chief Executive of the newly established Oil & Gas Technology Centre (OGTC), feature in the film, discussing ambitions, innovation and skills, and what makes the region an industry leader.

Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing and Aberdeenshire Council Co-leader Councillor Richard Thomson discuss the business benefits offered by the region, investment plans and its international footprint and influence.

The programme, which is introduced by national newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky, was launched at the WPC’s Future Leaders Forum in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and will be shown at all WPC events throughout the year, including the Triennial World Petroleum Congress, Istanbul 2017, WPC’s Annual Meeting in December 2016 and the Kazakhstan World Expo, June 2017.

Cllr Laing said: “One of our key focuses as a Council is on ensuring the economic strength of our city and region for generations to come and there is a great deal of good work being done to ensure the oil and gas supply chain is anchored in the north-east as part of our wider commitment to a prosperous future.

“The expertise we have developed is being exported globally, something we are committed to building upon through a variety of initiatives, and the energy industry remains an important part of our region’s economy. It is vital we tell that story and the Journey of the Drop will help us do that in front of a worldwide audience.”

Cllr Richard Thomson explained: “The Aberdeen City Region really punches above its weight in the energy industry, and despite challenging times we have retained a forward-thinking outlook, and worked collaboratively to ensure we anchor that vital industry here.

“The Journey of the Drop programme is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the region’s strengths to industry leaders worldwide, and highlight that not only is the region still open for business, but that we are a centre of excellence, harbouring the skills and knowledge that will lead the next generation.”

Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Russell Borthwick added: “Despite national and international headlines to the contrary, the Aberdeen City Region remains open for business, has exciting plans for the future and we need to share these positive messages around the world.

“In these highly competitive and dynamic times, we need people and organisations to bring skills, innovation, investment and jobs to the north east of Scotland.

“This film demonstrates that the infrastructure investment being made in the region allied to the unrivalled knowledge, innovation and technology we have here in the oil & gas sector will anchor Aberdeen as a significant international energy location far beyond our lifetimes.”