1. Identify the source and scale of your emissions

In order to set a goal, you need to know where your emissions come from and calculate the scale of them.
See: A beginner’s guide to carbon footprinting and the Zero Carbon Business Hub’s Carbon Footprint Calculator. 

2. Identify opportunities for carbon reductions and make a plan

How will you measure your emissions to ensure you are reducing your carbon footprint? Setting interim targets along the path to net zero is vital. See the Zero Carbon Business Hub’s cost of carbon emissions calculator to see where this can lead to savings for your business.

3. Switch to green energy

This is the simplest and quickest way to reduce your emissions. Consider suppliers that use renewable energy sources.

4. Reduce waste

Recycling materials such as paper or plastic helps you reduce waste and lessen the impact on the environment. It will also save you money on landfill tax and waste disposal rates.

5. Consider your business travel patterns

With many organisations moving to a hybrid working model, consider your employees’ working patterns and whether a reduction in travel may help to reduce your emissions.

6. Engage with your supply chain

Businesses that supply you or to whom you supply are part of your ‘Scope 3’ emissions. Working with them to drive down emissions, share ideas, best practice and resources is an essential part of reducing emissions.

7. Diversify your fleet

Encouraging third party suppliers to invest in more fuel-efficient fleets or considering the efficiency of your own fleet is an important step. Go Ultra Low’s Car Tax Calculator helps you to see the savings this could bring about.

8. Consider quality carbon offsetting

Some emissions cannot yet be avoided, even after you have reduced your own. Carbon offsetting projects can have positive impacts on global emissions. See a beginner’s guide to carbon offsetting. 

9. Communicate your plans and successes

Climate change is an important issue for the public. Engaging your staff in your emissions reduction work and communicating your success to customers is important.

10. Make the commitment and stay up to date.

Consider making the SME Climate Commitment to future-proof your business, and ensure that you stay up to date with ever-changing government policy on climate change through your local chamber.