Businesses in Stockport and across Greater Manchester are being urged to take part in a series of Growth Company workshops to kickstart the region’s SMEs on a journey towards net zero carbon emissions.
The Growth Company’s ‘Journey to Net Zero’ is a series of fully-funded workshops for the region’s SMEs, regardless of sector, that are beginning their efforts to reducing their environmental impact. The cohort programme of seven online workshops will begin on 1st July for eight weeks.
In 2019, the UK became the first major nation to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net zero. The transition will fundamentally transform every part of the economy. Some of these changes will be visible, such as renewable energy and electric vehicles, but most will happen behind the scenes in the way organisations operate and manage their relationships.
SMEs are responsible for nearly half the UK’s business-related emissions, and large companies are increasingly focusing on their supply chain to reduce their environmental impact. The choice is either to start now and capitalise on the opportunities ahead, or fall behind and miss out on the benefits, such as stronger stakeholder relationships, brand reputation and higher profitability.
Through a series of online webinars and one-to-one advice, businesses will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to reduce their environmental impact. Programme content will include:
- understanding climate change
- how to identify your impacts and calculate your carbon footprint
- what actions could be taken to reduce these
- how to engage with your workforce
- how to create sustainable supply chains
- how to write a relevant environmental policy
- how to promote your green credentials
- how to develop your environmental strategy
Mark Atherton, GMCA Director of Environment said:
Climate change is a fundamental threat to Greater Manchester’s current and future economy. To get to carbon neutral by 2038, we all need to play our part to achieve an urgent and significant reduction in carbon emissions. I urge all Greater Manchester SME businesses to access this fully funded programme of support to reduce their environmental impacts, while also building a more robust and profitable business.”
To learn more about the programme and apply to sign-up to the latest cohort of businesses in Greater Manchester to start of the ‘Journey to Net Zero’, visit the GC Business Growth Hub website.