10 Apr Why all businesses need a carbon reduction plan and why this will result in a more resilient and sustainable business community

In 2019, the UK became the first major economy to adopt a legal commitment to achieve ‘Net Zero’ carbon emissions by 2050. Closer to home, West Northamptonshire Council has set a net zero target for its own emissions by 2030 and those of residents and businesses by 2045. North Northamptonshire council has committed to becoming a carbon-neutral council by 2030 and aligns to the national net zero goal of 2050.

Targets and pledges are well and good, but the majority of climate experts state that the UK, along with all developing nations are not nearly on track to achieve these goals and meanwhile the world keeps warming and climate risks escalate. In addition, UK and EU regulation coming into force over the next year will require many SMEs to have a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) in place in order to tender for government contracts or to work with larger suppliers.

Businesses and organisations need to respond by putting carbon reduction and sustainability at the centre of their strategy.  This is an opportunity for businesses, particularly small businesses, that is often overlooked or low down on the list of priorities. Businesses fear that carbon reduction initiatives will be expensive or be viewed as greenwashing or a marketing gimmick. The reality is that it is simply good business strategy. It is not as big a task as it seems at first. Some of the biggest impact actions are the simplest to make. And the rewards are plentiful; from cutting costs, attracting new customers and employees, influencing others and by simply doing what’s right, you will enhance your reputation.

How to start a carbon reduction plan
Step 1: Make sure everyone understands the environmental impacts of your business activities and that everyone in your business is involved – from senior management to all employees.

Step 2: Measure your carbon emissions and get a baseline idea of your environmental impact and where your main emissions are coming from.

Step 3: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Focus on the main areas of negative impact and work out how to improve them.

Step 4: Tell people what you are doing; your employees, your customers, your suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Where to get help

There is an abundance of help online. The FSB website includes resources, tools and information, the SME Climate Hub is a non-profit global initiative designed to help companies take climate action. Here in Northamptonshire, both Councils are working with local partners, including the University of Northampton, to provide businesses with the tools they need to reduce their emissions and to become more sustainable. ActNow Consulting runs an affordable, interactive and accessible Carbon Reduction workshop designed for time-poor businesses who need help starting on their sustainability journey. Register via Eventbrite here, https://lnkd.in/e62u5rGJ