Why sustainability should be top of the business agenda
ENERGY
Spreading the
GREEN word
WORDS : JULIE BURNISTON
Why sustainability should be top of the business agenda
Going green – Solar Panels are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways of reducing both energy bills and environmental impact .
As we move towards a more environmentally conscious future , sustainability has become a buzzword .
But encouraging businesses to adopt efficient systems and maximising their opportunities to install green , clean energy is a driving passion for Andrew Porritt , MD of Anelec , the Stokesley-based provider of renewable electrical energy solutions .
“ As a business owner , there are numerous benefits to choosing green energy sources , but the most important is the positive environmental impact ,” he says .
“ The use of fossil fuels contributes to climate change , air pollution and other environmental problems . By switching to renewable energy , businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and help mitigate climate change , which is essential to the planet ’ s survival . Short-term , it also reduces pollution , which has health benefits for employees and the wider community .”
Heading for net zero Being ahead of the green curve is becoming more pressing , as the government has set a target to reach net zero by 2050 . Businesses will need to significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to meet this goal .
While there are currently no penalties in place for those who fail to comply , this could change in the future due to increasing pressure from investors , customers and other stakeholders for businesses to act on climate change .
“ At the very least , failure to address climate change risks could result in damage to a company ’ s reputation ,” says Andrew .
“ The government has implemented various policies and regulations to encourage and incentivise businesses to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions , and there are many benefits of doing so , over and above the positives for the environment .”
One of the most compelling reasons for businesses to choose green energy is the potential for cost savings .
“ While the upfront costs of renewable energy systems can be high , the long-term savings can be significant ,” explains Andrew . “ With solar energy , for example , businesses can generate their own electricity and reduce their reliance on grid power , which equals lower electricity bills .
“ Additionally , there are incentives and tax breaks for businesses who invest in renewable energy systems , which can help offset the initial costs .”
Using green energy can also help businesses stand out from their competitors . “ With growing public awareness of environmental issues , many consumers are seeking out eco-friendly products and services ,” he continues .
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