World leaders have descended on Glasgow for the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to discuss plans to curb emissions and slow down global warming. There have already been a number of deals made between the countries in attendance and it is expected that there will be many more.
Sustainability and climate change remain a key issue for government and businesses, however in order for the UK to hit its ambitious net zero targets both must work cohesively. Research from the British Chambers of Commerce NetZero Survey shows that 57% of West Midlands businesses have not yet implemented any sustainability policies, with many unaware of what policies to implement to become greener.
The main barriers for businesses becoming more sustainable relate to cost. It is important that businesses are aware of what grants are available to them in order to help make them greener.
It is vital that businesses and government come together. Certain businesses may find it more challenging to get to net zero and face potentially being left behind. Smaller firms are more concerned about the cost of becoming more sustainable and implementing new technology, especially during a time where companies cash flow levels are being squeezed as a result of the pandemic.
Government must understand this and that each businesses journey to net zero will be different. The next decade will require clear and fair policies introduced that provide all businesses the opportunity to become more sustainable.
The HW Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey, which looks to report on the biggest issues currently facing businesses, has opened for data collection. This edition will have a special focus on sustainability and will ask the concerns and barriers businesses face when it comes to being greener.
We are asking for as many businesses as possible to fill out the short survey and to get your key business concerns heard by significant decision makers locally and nationally. To fill out the survey and to be in with a chance to win a Cheese & Wine afternoon tea for two at Centenary Lounge in Worcester please visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/GWHGRBQ4.