On Wednesday 29th May, we had the pleasure of hosting 22 different businesses for Network & Learn: Net Zero 101. We were joined by guest speaker, Alexina Cassidy, a leading Net Zero adviser and ESG & sustainability strategist, who hosted a Net Zero 101 workshop to showcase what business can start doing to lower their carbon emissions, and the long-term benefits of doing so.
For those unable to join us in person, we’ve collected the key takeaways from the workshop.
It was great to see such a variety of businesses join us for Network & Learn. Some at the start of their sustainability journey – others well on their way. The interaction and enthusiasm from all involved made it clear that there is an appetite from businesses to make real progress in this area.
Alongside initiatives run by the SEM Growth Hub, Local Authorities are beginning to increase their support for sustainability initiatives. To discover the support on offer from your local authority, visits the Net Zero Hub by clicking here.
Alexina explained that the great thing about becoming more sustainable is that it’s not just our planet that benefits. But you business does too.
Benefits include:
Lowering operational costs: By switching to renewable energy sources, you can lower the cost of your energy outputs long term. Reducing the amount of waste you produce can also support in lowering costs.
Improve operating efficiency: Sustainable practices can lead to more efficient business operations.
Improve supplier relations: Many suppliers are actively looking to work with businesses that have sustainability strategies in place (to support meeting their own targets). Having you own sustainability strategy in place will increase the likelihood of other companies and organisations wanting to work with you.
Increase access to funding and other business investment: Many investors and financial institutions prefer to support businesses with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Grants and incentives are often available for businesses pursuing sustainable initiatives, like the SEM Growth Hub’s own funding programmes.
Although it may seem a daunting challenge to become more sustainable, Alexina outlined how you can start your sustainability journey with 4 key actions:
1. Measure your carbon footprint: So you have a clear picture of the emissions your business produces.
2. Determine what to prioritise first: Based on your carbon footprint, you can identify the core areas to focus on when you start to reduce your emissions. Remember to be realistic – set goals and objectives you’re likely to achieve.
3. Review how you buy and sell: Are you working with sustainable providers? Do they have a sustainability pledge? Working with sustainable suppliers can reduce your own carbon footprint!
4. Review your internal systems: Who do you bank with? What software do you use? Ask yourself, do these providers meet your new sustainability pledge. Many service providers are implementing sustainable operations, but currently not all are. It’s important to work with organisations that meet your pledge.
If you’re looking for support in starting your sustainability journey, the South East Midlands Growth Hub can help. Our team of business advisers are certified Carbon Literate and offer free advice and guidance to all businesses in Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes and Northampton. To speak to a business adviser, book a call.
