26/08/2010
Increasing numbers of small businesses are looking to 'go green', as they recognise the potential benefits that a more sustainable approach can bring.
Until quite recently, a switch to greener operations was something that only larger companies could consider, with small businesses put off by the costs involved.
However, with small businesses now able to access zero per cent loans to fund energy efficient equipment, and with a range of commercial finance options such as invoice discounting and factoring available to ease the burden, going green no longer means going into the red.
While it is true that the initial costs of going green can be expensive, small businesses are recognising that it can actually make them money in the long run.
Modern-day consumers are highly conscious of the choices they make and the impact their decisions have on the environment. As a result, they are more inclined to choose services from companies that make sustainability a major part of their brand.
A recent report by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) encouraged small businesses to embrace greener practices, and emphasised the important role they can play in the UK's ongoing bid to reduce carbon emissions.
John Walker, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "The need to cut carbon emissions and the predicted increase in the cost of energy over the coming decade means that the move to a low carbon economy is more of an economic imperative than ever.''
"Small businesses can play a huge part in the UK's fight against climate change [...]," he added.
Joseph Jeffries