You probably didn’t think much about climate change when you started your business. And right now, like many small firms, you may already be facing a host of other challenges, from coping with business regulations and competitive pressures to COVID-19 and Brexit.
Climate change has been triggered by increasing levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, resulting in harmful global warming. To address this problem, the UK has set a target for all businesses to achieve ‘net zero’ GHG emissions by 2050.
Put simply, net zero means we are not adding new emissions to the atmosphere. Emissions will continue but will be balanced by absorbing an equivalent amount from the atmosphere. Our new book explains that the first decisive step, if you haven’t yet taken it, is to make a firm pledge to achieve net zero in your business. It goes on to help you identify barriers – ranging from lack of guidance to increased costs – and provide advice on how to overcome them.
The book explains that the key to success is to collaborate, adopt the approach that works for you, and use all the support available. It provides useful information and describes effective tools, including recognized business standards, to help you manage and minimize GHG emissions.
The book also gives practical, real-life examples, such as a company that has significantly cut its emissions (and energy costs!) by applying the energy management standard ISO 50001, while also winning new business by demonstrating its commitment to sustainability.