Net zero plans are being set out
DOZENS of Barnsley businesses have received specialist support to lead the charge to net zero.
Net Zero Barnsley, a free accelerator run by The Business Village, has helped 35 key employers start work on environmentally friendly action plans to cut carbon emissions.
The fully-funded programme, which ends next month, was set up to help businesses start work towards the Government’s legal requirement for the UK to achieve net zero by 2050, and Barnsley borough’s own target to achieve this ahead of the national deadline by 2045.
Net Zero Barnsley coaches have helped each of the participating Barnsley businesses carry out a full diagnostic assessment of their current carbon footprint; then identify ways they could significantly reduce emissions. The programme has included one-toone coaching, innovation support, in-person workshops and peer group networking.
Net Zero Barnsley business development manager Kevin Steel said: “Clear targets have been set for all UK businesses and none can now ignore the need to reduce carbon emissions as far as possible in every aspect of their work. But many are unsure how to measure their carbon emissions and get going on their journey to net zero.
“That’s where our specialist accelerator has led the charge and given timely expert advice to help trailblazing Barnsley businesses get ahead and tackle this essential challenge.”
Actions taken by local businesses to reduce carbon include switching from fossil fuels to more sustainable forms of energy such as solar panels; improving efficiency; adopting new smart technology, reducing waste, considering the environmental impact of procurement processes and supply chains; supporting sustainable transport schemes for staff and making culture changes in the workplace.
White’s Bakery, for example, has reduced emissions by ensuring optimum use of oven capacity for every bake and removing carbon-emitting ‘cooling tunnels’ from its production process altogether. Hot cakes are now allowed to cool naturally instead. Lighting with motion sensors, automatic off switches, cardboard and plastic recycling have also been introduced.
Director of White’s Bakery David White said: “Net Zero Barnsley has been fantastic in helping us to get our heads around our impact on the environment and work out what actions we can take to become a more sustainable business. We’ve seen an impact straight way with the changes we have made.
“We’re now keen to monitor gas and electric meters weekly, the subject of carbon emissions is always on the agenda of our management meetings and all staff are mindful of saving energy and reducing waste in their work.
“As businesses, we’ve all got a duty to try our best to be part of the solution not the problem.
“It also makes sense for the bottomline as new technology and energy-efficient measures to reduce emissions, will very often cut production costs and increase profitability too. Plus, getting started now means businesses can spread the costs of the investment needed to transform their company into a net zero emitter.”
Funding for the Net Zero Barnsley programme comes from the government through the UK Community Renewal Fund, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Barnsley Council.
Net Zero Barnsley was launched in February and this first cohort of businesses will complete its seven-month programme this month.