Timed to coincide with COP26, a new survey of UK and overseas businesses by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has revealed just how challenging net-zero targets will be to hit unless governments work with businesses across the globe on making transitions to reduce their carbon footprint.
The survey reveals what we all know – that translating the deals, headlines and rhetoric from Glasgow into practical, workable solutions is the real challenge.
It revealed that a startling nine out of 10 firms have not done any assessment on a series of key strategies for managing a sustainable transition to net zero and two thirds (61%) said either capital grants or tax allowances would do most to encourage them to reduce their carbon consumption in the long term.
It also found most businesses were either unaware of or were not taking steps to get involved in key net zero strategies. These included the impact of changes to food supply chains (93%), a ‘Just Transition’ to net zero (93%), or the use of ‘nature-based solutions’ (89%). It also gave an indication of which of the UK’s 10 key priorities for a green industrial revolution were most important to them.
It found that 39% recommend prioritising ‘protecting our natural environment’, while 34% favoured ‘greener buildings’, 33% ‘delivering new and advanced nuclear power’, 33% ‘advancing offshore wind’, and 32% ‘driving the growth of low carbon hydrogen’.
There is a real danger that smaller businesses will get left behind unless politicians and business leaders come together to galvanise action.
A good start for all businesses is the BCC Net Zero hub, in partnership with O2, which provides businesses with a one-stop shop on everything you need to know about setting Net Zero targets. Welcome to the Net Zero Hub (britishchambers.org.uk)
In addition, we are here to help Staffordshire firms starting on the journey to net zero, just call or email us at the contacts below.
Let’s do Business is back
I am really looking forward to welcoming all our exhibitors and visitors to Let’s do Business, on November 11th at Uttoxeter Racecourse, following the hardships of the past 18 months.
This is the Chamber’s flagship event, where we create a platform for anyone who wants to promote their business and network in the local business community. Let’s do Business also puts Staffordshire on the map as the place to come to do business. Networking is one of the most effective ways to promote and build business, and this event is a must for any business looking to connect and share information with new and existing contacts.
The halls at Uttoxeter racecourse will be packed with visitors and exhibitors from all business sectors as well as the Chamber, Growth Hub, and international trade teams, who will be on hand to offer advice and guidance on everything you need to run and grow your business. There will also be workshops, speed networking and our headline speaker, author and motivational speaker, Chris Thrall. His life has taken a few twists since leaving the army, suffering meths addiction and psychosis and working for the Triads in Hong Kong, Chris has a story you must hear.
The spirit of cooperation and the will for us all to work together has never been stronger and Let’s do Business is a great platform for us to do what we all do best – business!
Click here to register for free to attend – Let’s Do Business (letsdobusinessexpo.co.uk)
2021 Staffordshire Business Awards finalists
With less than two weeks to our gala award evening at Uttoxeter Racecourse, I am proud and excited that we have announced the finalists of the 2021 Staffordshire Business Awards. Due to restrictions the event at Uttoxeter is invite only but we will shortly be announcing details of how you can join our live streaming of the ceremony.
You can view the shortlisted finalists on a series of short videos in our Virtual Members Lounge here:
Business Awards 2021 Announced — Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce
Surveying for our latest Quarterly Economic Survey is now open.
This is one of the most important times for businesses across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire to complete the Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). The information you provide will have help to shape and influence current policy thinking as the data is shared with the BCC, Government departments including HM Treasury and the Cabinet officer as well as the Bank of England.
We would keen to hear from firms from starts ups to large corporations, as it helps create an accurate picture of the current business landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned director or relatively new to your company, please spare just a few minutes to fill in the survey.
We understand your time is precious, even more so now, so thank you to all those who complete the survey. The link to the survey is – https://bit.ly/3CyT1p1
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222 or call the Stoke and Staffs Growth Hub Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
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