Top tips to help your business move towards net zero carbon and reduce your business energy bills.
Businesses need to lead the way in moving towards net zero carbon emissions. There is no quick fix so businesses need to start the journey now and move towards the ultimate goal of net zero, over the next few years. Here are some of the changes that you can implement in your firm.
Switch to a green energy supplier.
Green energy is generated by renewable sources such as wind, hydroelectric or solar. The more businesses that switch to green energy suppliers the quicker the shift away from fossil fuels such as coal or oil will be.
Switch to electric vehicles.
If your business has a fleet of petrol or diesel vehicles, you could switch across to electric-only vehicles. It is also worth noting that company car drivers who choose an electric vehicle also enjoy a reduced benefit-in-kind, for tax purposes. If you deliver products or services to your customers, showing up in an electric vehicle sends a positive message that your firm is an environmentally responsible business.
Reduce business travel.
Reducing business travel will help to reduce your carbon footprint. Air travel is responsible for significant carbon emissions so really challenge yourselves on whether meeting objectives can be met via Zoom or Teams. Commuting also contributes to carbon emissions. Encouraging your staff to work from home, some of the time, will help to reduce your carbon emissions. Face-to-face meetings are still very important but it is key to get the balance right.
Focus on reducing waste.
Wasted paper, water, energy or raw materials contribute to climate change and also cost money.
You can reduce your energy bills by ensuring that all equipment is turned off at night.
You can also invest in improved insulation and thermal management of your business premises in order to reduce the amount of central heating that is required, particularly in the winter months. You can also encourage staff to print less and reuse or recycle materials, where possible. Embracing new technology such as electronic signatures, etc. can further reduce your reliance on paper.
Switch to lower carbon suppliers.
Research low carbon suppliers and where possible, switch to using them instead of your traditional suppliers. Even small changes such as using a local supplier rather than an overseas firm, will help to reduce the carbon footprint of transporting materials to your business premises. If you only buy from other businesses that are taking action on climate change, you will help to further drive the business community towards our shared goal of net zero carbon. Examples could include banks who offer paperless statements, logistics companies who use electric vans or food companies who recycle and use minimal packaging.
Need more information?
We offer a wide range of services which are unique to your business and can have a chat about how your business can reduce your energy bills. Our team of chartered accountants have a wealth of experience in a broad range of sectors, from construction and property to the charity sector. Our team work hard to ensure they create smart and effective tax-efficient solutions for start-ups to optimise growth and help them succeed. If you want to learn more about how the team can help or simply want some start-up advice from a trusted accountant do hesitate to contact us. For more information please do hesitate to contact us on 0161 962 1855. Alternatively you can email us using the form below and we will contact you as soon as possible.
Our fantastic team at A&C Chartered Accountants are here to help.
