The issue of carbon neutrality has gained considerable credibility in recent times, particularly within the international community and among large corporations. Most recently, small and medium sized businesses in Latin American have been moved to make carbon neutrality a central feature of their forward-thinking business plans, as industry experts claim that this will make them more competitive in a struggling global economy.
While carbon neutrality may be a central focus for FTSE 2100 corporations and international firms, SME’s have been slower to recognise both the importance of carbon neutrality and the benefits that it provides. This is a matter of some concern, both in terms of the future for small business owners and the natural environment as a whole, when fossil fuels inevitably become more and more expensive and business running costs continue to climb. While environmental issues have been on the periphery of the public consciousness for well over a decade now, it is only as it becomes more cost effective to become ‘green’ than it is to avoid it that the real eco revolution will take hold.
Carbon Neutrality Certification: Why should you Care?
According to new research conducted by the AXA Business Insurance group, which garnered the opinion of an estimated 500 SME’s in the UK, staggering 43% did not recognise the importance of achieving carbon neutrality or the associated certification. In contrast, 96% of all FTSE 100 companies placed an extremely high level of importance on this issue, which in turn underlines its significance and establishes a clear example for all independent ventures to follow in the future.
If small businesses require encouragement to invest in carbon neutrality, they should consider the recent introduction of the Mandatory Carbon Reporting in the UK. While this will initially only impact on businesses listed on the London Stock Exchange, it will ultimately have a domino effect as these companies look at emissions throughout their supply chains.
Here’s the cold, hard truth: If your small business fails to embrace carbon neutrality and earn the necessary certification, you may find that many of your partners and existing customers switch allegiance to a more proactive firm in the months ahead.
The Bottom Line for Small Businesses
As we can see, the drive among large corporations to achieve carbon neutrality will have a huge impact on small businesses. This means that it is imperative for these firms to adopt a proactive approach on the issue of carbon neutrality, while also making it a central component of their future business plans. Regardless of whether this strategy involves introducing sustainable waste management procedures or partnering with solar power providers such as www.myfourwalls.com, the most important thing is that SME’s recognise the importance of carbon neutrality and make positive changes.
Of course, recognition without action wouldn’t matter much to your business and community. As a small business owner, it’s only natural for you to take action and respond to the trend, given the implications, as well as benefits, of going green with your business practices. The Government is doing a great job in making carbon reporting mandatory, as small businesses, as representatives of local communities, should lead by example.
By recognising change and acting now, you can create a more sustainable business strategy and achieve carbon neutrality as part of a long-term goal. It may even enable you to make long-term financial savings, especially as both private and public sector bodies continue to incentivise the use of environmentally-friendly materials and processes.