Why Net Zero for the SME?

driving urgently needed climate action and preventing the worst effects of climate change. From running our business to heating our homes, all activity that burns fossil fuels releases greenhouses gases that increase global temperatures.

In 2019 UK Government amended the Climate Change Act to commit the UK to achieve net zero by 2050. Ramping up a previous 80% reduction by 2025 to 100% reduction in emissions by 2050. Extreme weather incidents and reporting of record temperatures has escalated sustainability to the top of the agenda. There is a compelling opportunity for SMEs who make up 95% of all firms globally, to collectively make a huge impact on sustainability.

47% of leaders want to make an impact but are confused as to where to begin, 77% of small firms don’t know how to measure their carbon emissions and weave this into a wider Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. With increasing pressure on small businesses to respond to a range of daily pressures including inflation, supply chain risks and a tight labour market, there are of course further challenges to dedicate time and resources to achieving net zero, but it is essential that we do so. So why is building a net zero strategy good for business and the planet?

Be ready for the change

Being proactive now can enhance long term resilience for the inevitable acceleration of evolving requirements for businesses.

Customer Demand

Companies will be impacted as larger clients begin to scrutinise their supply chain. Customers are likely to prioritise suppliers that align to their sustainability objectives and share their values. Being proactive future proofs your profitability, protecting your existing customer base and ensuring you are in an optimal position to build new pipeline.

Access to Funding

Funding and grant initiatives are available to organisations that are actively working towards reducing their carbon footprint. SMEs that have a clear strategy and are working to achieve targets set within an action plan are well positioned to access grants and investment provided by both the Welsh Government and UK Government who have set aside £5billion for UK businesses to become greener.

Cost Savings

Building a sustainability strategy can help SMEs save costs while driving efficiencies, improving the bottom line. Taking practical steps in reducing carbon footprint by reducing energy, water consumption and adopting recycling practices can drive efficiencies. Building sustainability into every action and decision supports growth and profitability without mitigating your impact on the planet.

Talent Attraction and Retention

Employees who are connected with their place of work are more inclined to stay with their employer, 80% of Gen Z job seekers want opportunities that better align to their interests and values and 40% of millennials have taken a job with a company because of the company’s sustainability practices.

Procurement

All companies and organisations who apply for government contracts including NHS, local councils and MOD will need to demonstrate their alignment with net zero policies.

SMEs are often under tremendous pressure to meet deadlines and contractual requirements and often have little time to focus on wider strategic issues. We can help you to keep a focus on what needs to be done immediately and how issues can be tackled with practical solutions. We can monitor your progress and support the positive promotion of your achievements.

In conclusion starting on a pathway to reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t need to be complicated. Through a process of awareness, engagement and action our experts at Pathway to Carbon Zero will guide you and your business through a systematic process to establish your carbon footprint and achieve your carbon reduction ambitions, whilst developing valuable relationships with your suppliers, customers and staff, helping you and your business to be more ethical, sustainable and competitive in an environment where taking action to respond to the climate emergency is a key business outcome.

The pathway to carbon zero approach, whilst being good for the planet also provides tangible business benefits for SMEs including reducing costs, improving brand recognition, investment opportunities and competitive differentiation.

At Pathway to Carbon Zero, we have over 25 years experience supporting SMEs with their sustainability initiatives including waste minimisation, energy management and product life cycle projects. Experienced in Scope1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions we can provide you with the tools and resources to deliver an achievable strategy and action plan.

Toni Bailey (BSc Environmental Science)

Director, Pathway to Carbon Zero Ltd.

Email: tonibailey@pathwaytocz.com

Contact: 07960 534016