FORMER France President Francois Hollande once said: “We have a single mission: to protect and hand on the planet to the next generation.”
Of course, he is referring to the widely accepted view that our industrialisation actions have damaged our planet, and that if we don’t change our ways, then we’re headed for a climate change catastrophe in the near future.
Sometimes, as a small business owner, this seems over my head, as I consider paying wages, handling a VAT return or recruiting staff. It also seems at times that my actions and those of my business cannot make the slightest bit of difference in the fight to slow, pause and reverse climate damage.
Of course, I can make a difference. Not alone, but as part of a group. By collectively decarbonising, Northern Ireland’s small businesses can make a positive impact on the achievement of local and global decarbonisation goals.
Decarbonisation refers to the process of reducing or eliminating carbon emissions from sources such as transportation, manufacturing, energy production, and other industrial processes to combat climate change. It involves shifting to more sustainable and renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power, as well as improving energy efficiency and reducing waste.
For small businesses, decarbonisation may involve taking action to reduce their carbon footprint, such as switching to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, reducing transportation emissions, and encouraging sustainable practices.
By taking these steps, NI’s SMEs can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also save money on energy bills, improve their reputation among customers, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Here are some steps that our local businesses can take to prepare for decarbonisation, in a handy C.L.I.M.A.T.E acronym format:
C - Conduct a carbon audit: this will help businesses to understand their current carbon footprint and identify areas where they can reduce emissions. These are easily accessible, and businesses such as Pinnacle Growth Group can deliver one for you.
L - Low-carbon transport: Businesses can reduce their carbon footprint by using low-carbon transport options such as electric vehicles or bicycles, or by encouraging employees to share transport.
I - Invest in renewable energy: Businesses can invest in renewable energy to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. This can involve installing solar panels, wind turbines, or other forms of renewable energy sources.
M - Manage stakeholders: Businesses should communicate with their stakeholders, including employees, customers, and investors, about their efforts to decarbonise. This will help build support for their decarbonisation efforts and encourage others to take similar steps.
A - Adopt energy-efficient practices: Businesses can adopt practices such as using LED lights, upgrading to energy-efficient equipment, and reducing unnecessary energy usage.
T - Targets: Once the business has identified its current carbon footprint, it should set targets for reducing emissions. These should be ambitious but achievable and based on a thorough understanding of the organisation’s operations and the technologies available to reduce emissions.
E - Engage with suppliers: Businesses should engage with their suppliers to ensure that they are also taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
Decarbonisation is undoubtedly a critical issue, and Northern Ireland’s SMEs can and should take an active role in reducing their carbon emissions.
By seeking expert advice and making small but effective changes, firms can prepare for it and play their part in mitigating the effects of climate change.
:: Robert McConnell is managing director of Pinnacle Growth Group (https://pinnaclegrowth.group)
