The Environment Agency today begins a month-long initiative to recognise the British businesses that are helping to drive green growth, despite tough economic times.
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Changing attitudes
With the UK’s green economy growing by £5.4 billion in 2011, numerous reports have identified a sea-change in attitudes amongst businesses towards sustainable growth.
The Environment Agency already works with many organisations to help them manage their environmental impacts, but is also keen to recognise the SMEs, entrepreneurs and other businesses helping to improve the environment and reduce carbon emissions.
Organisations involved in the campaign
A wide range of organisations including Waterwise, Keep Britain Tidy, the Carbon Trust, the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), Defra and DECC will be joining the Environment Agency to encourage debate and discussion on what it takes to achieve greener businesses. The initiative aims to highlight hundreds of organisations driving greener business approaches.
All businesses contributing to green growth are encouraged to get involved by sharing their experiences of best practice.
Greener Business Report
Three weeks of discussion will culminate in the publication of the Environment Agency’s latest Greener Business Report this Autumn. The report will look at the environmental performance of regulated business across England and Wales.
Lord Chris Smith, Chairman of the Environment Agency, said: 'Whilst current economic circumstances prioritise a focus on profitability, it is essential that businesses strive for growth that is truly sustainable. ‘Green’ and ‘growth’ are both essential elements of economic and social recovery. We cannot opt for either in isolation.
'The shift in business attitudes towards green growth is remarkable and very welcome. We want to recognise the organisations, from individual entrepreneurs to global industries, striving for leaner, more efficient and less wasteful economic development.
'By seizing opportunities to reduce their burden on the natural environment and develop the products and services needed to adjust to climate change and environmental challenges, these organisations are setting an outstanding example.'
Each week discussion will focus on a different theme. This week’s focus is on waste management. From 17th September, attention will shift to water management, coinciding with the announcement of the Environment Agency and Waterwise biannual UK Water Efficiency Awards. The week beginning 24th September will then look at driving improvements in energy efficiency.
Anyone with an interest in greener business is encouraged to get involved by sharing their experiences, stories and advice via Twitter using #greenerbusiness. They can also share case studies of best practice via the Environment Agency’s Facebook page.
Greener Business Stars
Organisations recognised for reducing their impact on the environment through better waste management in this week’s Greener Business Showcase include:
These organisations were nominated by members of the Environment Agency’s teams working closely with regulated business across England and Wales. See how one Environment Agency waste regulatory specialist is working alongside businesses to improve their performance. Further examples of best practice will be identified throughout September.
Leading greener business by example
The Environment Agency has also set itself tough targets in order to improve its own environmental performance.
Changing attitudes in environmental performance - the evidence
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