It is quite concerning that as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 28) in Dubai gets underway, a survey of 1,000 businesses – mostly SMEs – by the British Chambers of Commerce Insights Unit shows 40% of companies do not know any details about the UK’s net zero target.
- 7% are not aware of the UK government’s target at all, while 33% are aware but know no details. Last year 13% were not aware, and 48% had no details.
- There is business uncertainty about the impact of the UK’s net-zero policy changes announced in September. Around a quarter (24%) say the postponement of various targets will have a negative impact, while a third (31%) say the postponement will have a positive effect on their business.
- Around a quarter (24%) of firms report some form of exposure to severe weather events.
Over 1,000 businesses were surveyed for the research, with 96% of respondents SMEs. Similar research last year showed 61% of firms either not aware or having limited knowledge of the Government’s targets.
It’s hardly a surprise that businesses are confused when saving electoral seats seems to have taken priority over saving the planet. Look how the Conservatives narrowly held Uxbridge in the recent by-election, against a run of crushing reversals, solely due to their opposition to the expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).
And with the PM, Foreign Secretary and the King and countless other delegates all travelling to the summit on separate private jets it does make you wonder how we will ever achieve net zero.
There is a huge challenge ahead to raise awareness in the business community about the UK’s 2050 net-zero target. Many firms are simply unaware of it or have only a cursory understanding.
Business must be at the heart of tackling climate change. Staffordshire Chambers works hard to improve understanding among our members, but companies need clear leadership from politicians.
Chambers of Commerce and businesses need a consistent net-zero framework that is clearly explained to them. The transition to net zero provides businesses with huge opportunities to grow and diversify. But awareness is key.
From flooding to heatwaves, a significant number of companies are seeing severe weather have a real impact on their business. Standing still on tackling climate change is no longer an option.
We would like to see three outcomes from COP28. We need clarity of frameworks to drive action. We need to see action to prepare for increasing exposure to severe weather events around the world. And finally, we want to see more support for the innovation and expansion of green technologies.
We always strive to set an example at Staffordshire Chambers and we have some exciting news around reporting on our carbon use. More to follow on that in next week’s blog!
In the meantime if you want to know more about net zero or have issues around how it is affecting your business please contact our policy advisor Declan Riddell: declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
AGM
Yesterday was the 74th AGM of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. It was also my 12th and last AGM as CEO.
It’s always a real pleasure to hear a recap of the Chambers’ activities over the previous year and reflect on just how much we have achieved.
The AGM also marked the end of term of office for the Staffordshire Chambers President Kate Beardmore. Kate has led the Chambers’ board through an extremely challenging period. Starting at the tail end of the pandemic Kate probably thought the only way was up. I’ve no need to reiterate what the past 18 months have brought us, and we all know the immense pressure felt by business and households.
However, having Kate around for the past two years has made it a lot easier. Always cheerful and with time for everyone, Kate’s knowledge of business and charity and her passion for the role and for Stoke and Staffordshire is obvious. Her heart and mind are openly set on making Staffordshire better so that every single person living here benefits.
Kate hands over the presidency to Steve Timmis who shares Kate’s passion and I know there could not be a safer pair of hands than his to take Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce forward.
We also have two new presidents for Stafford and Staffordshire Moorlands in Geoff Barton and Tom Wilkinson.
There are so many of you who freely give of your time to serve on our board, council, local area boards and council. A big thank you to you all. That is what makes us a truly democratic member led organisation and that makes me humbled and proud.
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
