Recently released data suggests that just over 1 in 10 businesses are measuring their carbon footprint. Over 1000 businesses were surveyed as part of research published by the British Chambers of Commerce in partnership with O2.
With businesses faced with a pandemic to navigate for the past 16 months, attention on a company’s green status may have taken a back seat, particularly for small and medium sized businesses.
The research shows how big of a challenge the UK’s net zero target is. However, tackling climate change is a problem that faces us all and we need to get back on board with reducing our carbon footprint and impact on the environment.
The main obstacles and barriers preventing businesses from achieving a more sustainable future included high upfront costs, access to grants and tax allowances. As a part of their journey businesses will need help from government in the form of grants and other support to help them take effective steps on the journey to a greener future and to tackle the main barriers preventing more sustainable business practices.
In response to the findings, the British Chambers of Commerce and O2 have launched a free online hub to help businesses find out how to measure their carbon footprint, set targets and develop an overall net zero strategy. The new hub provides a one-stop-shop for businesses to find out everything you need to know about Net Zero. It is packed with information on how to apply for grants, where to seek specialist advice and practical tips from firms that have already taken action. For more information please see here www.britishchambers.org.uk/page/net-zero-hub-2.
Businesses can also access support through Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce through the Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP), which supports businesses to become more resource efficient and provides grant funding (up to £20,000.) To find out more visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/support/advice/beep.