Green firms could be critical for the future of the West Midlands economy, according to the West Midlands Business Council and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.

In a submission to the Black Country Study - commissioned by Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott to develop a 30-year vision for the Black Country - the business community states environmental technologies could become a major source of new jobs.

In a joint statement, John Smallwood, from the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, and James Watkins, from the West Midlands Business Council, said: "The Black Country economy is critical not just to local people, but its strategic position means it is also vital for the future prosperity of the 5.3 million people who live in the West Midlands region.

"That is why we support the decision of John Prescott, to commission a study to develop a vision for the Black Country over the next 30 years and that is why any proposals must have environmental technologies integrated in its plans."