Businesses’ lack of green plans
HUNDREDS of small businesses in the West Country do not have an ‘active plan’ to reduce their impact on the environment, according to new research.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) surveyed 1,200 companies across the region and found the majority accept the planet is facing a climate crisis, but many say they need more financial support to address the issue.
More than 60% of small businesses said grants or low-interest loans to help install energy efficiency measures would encourage them to make changes, and nearly four in 10 said a reduction in their tax bill would also help.
According to the research, the majority of firms questioned are already taking steps to become more energy efficient, with recycling and waste management measures becoming increasingly popular among SMEs.
However, green transport issues are seen as more of a problem, the survey found. More than half of survey respondents said the cost of electric vehicles (EVs) was a “barrier to change”, and only 10% said they had installed a workplace charging point for EVs.
The FSB is now calling on the Government to launch a ‘Help to Green’ initiative that includes £5,000 vouchers that businesses could spend on environmental products and services.
It has also suggested:
■ Introducing a scrappage scheme through which diesel commercial vehicles could be recycled in exchange for grants that could be put towards cleaner hybrids and zero emissions vehicles (ZEV);
■ Working with Ofgem to establish a taskforce of suppliers, small business landlords and business groups to agree how to cut energy use in rented premises;
■ Lowering the capital requirements banks must adhere to when lending to businesses improvements;
■ Setting out target-based infrastructure strategies to deliver necessary ZEV charging infrastructure by 2030.
FSB national chair Mike Cherry said: “Adopting sustainable practices on the journey to net zero is everyone’s duty. Small businesses are keen to play their part, but often don’t have the resources, deep pockets and dedicated specialists enjoyed
for green by their larger counterparts, so can find identifying and taking the necessary steps a challenge.
“There’s no shortage of enthusiasm among small firms to reduce their impact on the environment, and the Government should take note – our report sets out a range of comprehensive recommendations which, if taken forward, will equip our 5.6 million small business owners with the tools they need to build a more sustainable future.”