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There are over six million SMEs across the UK , which accounts for 99 % of the private business sector , accounting for 53 % of the UK ’ s emissions . It can seem overwhelming when the headlines talk about cutting carbon emissions by a certain date . Gareth Dinnage from net positive business , Seacourt , shares tangible steps on how Government can assist SMEs to achieve net zero goals .

MES SEE THE big picture

‘ cut carbon emissions by 78 % by 2035 ’ headlines , coupled with events this year such as COP26 , and feel bewildered about where to start in order to halt the climate crisis . What is missing are practical steps for everyday businesses to implement . There are over six million SMEs across the UK , which accounts for 99 % of the private business sector , accounting for 53 % of the UK ’ s emissions . The right help will not only drive widespread meaningful change , but it will also make it happen faster .

As we hopefully emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic , there is now an appetite for sustainability so that we can return a little bit better . I passionately believe that SMEs are essential to delivering the ‘ build back better ’ mission . We generate employment , economic prosperity , innovation and bring social cohesion . With legislative attention on reducing carbon footprints , there are several key areas where Government can support the backbone of British business and provide the muchneeded help towards being more sustainable .

Reward efforts

All SMEs need to decarbonise by 2050 . A big target , and a headache for some . But there are significant levers that have a track record in driving change . For example , adding a 3p tax to plastic bags has almost completely changed consumer shopping behaviour with reusable bags the norm for spenders . It ’ s so straight forward .

GOVERNMENT CAN ALSO LEGISLATE TO MAKE COMPANIES REPORT ON CARBON IMPACTS .