Green for Micro programme outlines the big benefits of sustainability for small businesses

As a small business owner, the Green for Micro Programme will help you understand the growing importance of sustainability, both in business and in the world around us. What you may not understand are the significant benefits that it can have for your company, on everything from efficiencies to cost savings.

Green for Micro is a FREE programme that Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Office offers to helps small businesses take the first step towards becoming more sustainable, giving you access to a green consultant who’ll show you the small changes that can have a big impact.

Developing a ‘greener’ policy can offer many benefits to your business, including:

• Increased cost savings

• Improved resource efficiency (for example: using less energy, water, and materials)

• Reduced environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions

• Opportunities for higher and additional value on products and services

• Increased access to customers, improved corporate image and reputation.

• Increased resilience to climate change impacts.

Kevin Curran, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Cork North & West said ‘Small businesses today hear a lot on how to become “more sustainable”, “green” and “climate change”, but what does that mean for their business? The answer to this would be that businesses cannot afford not to implement these strategies as part of their everyday operations.’

Kevin advises ‘customers are more aware of sustainability and its impact on credentials of