The UK has set a target to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, but for many small businesses, this can feel unreachable and daunting. Concerns about cost, lack of resources, and limited knowledge often stand in the way, and only 39% of small businesses say they feel equipped to make the transition.

A recent report by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Zurich UK has found that while 64% of small businesses want sustainability to be a government priority, only 1 in 4 believe they’ll actually reach net zero by 2050.

Small businesses account for an estimated 43-53% of business-related emissions in the UK, so they are crucial in helping the country meet its environmental goals.

At Warr & Co, we work closely with small and medium-sized businesses and understand the practical challenges they face. With the right support, getting started on your net zero journey can be far more achievable, and more financially rewarding, than you might think.

Taking practical steps towards net zero

While the idea of becoming a “net zero business” might seem overwhelming, there are manageable, cost-effective steps you can start taking now.

1. Calculate your current emissions

The first step is getting a clear picture of your business’s carbon footprint. This includes direct emissions (like energy use in your office) and indirect ones (like supplier emissions or business travel). There are plenty of free online tools available to help with this, and many local authorities also offer support.

2. Create a net zero action plan

A written action plan can help you track progress and align your efforts with business objectives. Your plan should cover:

• Key focus areas (e.g. energy, transport, procurement)
• Timelines and milestones
• Budget and investment needs
• Accountability roles

3. Build everyday habits that support net zero

It’s important to embed sustainable practices, big or small, into your day-to-day operations. These can include:

• Reduce waste by digitising processes, reusing materials, and avoiding single-use products where possible.
• Recycle effectively, ensuring your team understands what can be recycled and how.
• Make sustainability a company policy by including environmental goals in staff training and internal policies.
• Switch to renewable energy suppliers for your office or facilities.
• Cut down on packaging, especially plastic, by choosing sustainable or minimal packaging alternatives.
• Green your supply chain by working with suppliers who are also committed to reducing their carbon impact.

4. Make green investments

Investing in energy-efficient equipment or renewable energy systems may involve upfront costs, but these changes often lead to long-term savings. There are also government grants and tax incentives designed to make these investments more affordable. Our team at Warr & Co can help you identify the right schemes and work out whether a green investment makes sense for your business financially.

How Warr & Co can help

Reaching net zero isn’t just good for the environment – it can also future-proof your business. Becoming more energy-efficient, accessing tax relief, and improving your public image are just some of the financial benefits of taking action now.

At Warr & Co, we can support you every step of the way, from understanding your carbon footprint to identifying funding opportunities and making tax-efficient green investments. We can also help you build sustainability goals into your long-term financial planning.

Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help your business move towards a greener, more sustainable future.