Net-zero programme will support businesses to become greener

A new net-zero programme will support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Glasgow to become greener. 

The Step Up to Net Zero programme will support SMEs with the tools they need to develop and drive forward action plans to maximize the value of products, services, and systems and minimise waste within their business. 

It will also offer opportunities to upskill and retain staff while helping businesses in their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and grow green profits. 

The programme has been designed to demonstrate ways the city can meet the challenge of building a sustainable, circular economy in the face of a climate emergency. 

Participating SMEs will be assessed through a circle assessment tool to improve current practice, with an action plan developed from this, encouraging the business to adopt more circular practices. 

SMEs will also be supported by someone placed in the business to drive the action plan forward. 

The individual undertaking the placement will be trained throughout, gaining real industry insight through the work placement, helping move these individuals further towards meaningful employment.

This 12-month pilot project will create 40 job placements and provide upskilling and reskilling opportunities both for those not yet in the workplace, as well as those already in work and looking for re-skilling opportunities.

The broader business base will also benefit from data and insights captured by the project and shared to inform and inspire peers, through city-wide events.

Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Susan Aitken said; ‘Achieving our sustainable ambition for Glasgow needs to be a collective effort, with everyone playing their part. We need our city’s business base to adapt to sustainable practises a part of that effort and the council has a role in helping to create the conditions that will help make this transition possible.

‘Evolving to a greener, more sustainable business model can be a daunting prospect for many SMEs and this programme will help by bringing in someone that focuses on this area, has external support through mentoring and training and can really drive forward action for a business.’

Photo by Scott Graham