As the cost of living crisis continues to encourage many of us to find more innovative ways to spend less money, one positive outcome is that UK consumers are also adopting more sustainable lifestyles. Research by Deloitte UK shows that lots of us are reducing the “stuff” that we buy, shopping more seasonally and attempting to cut waste. And it’s not just cost-savings that are driving this change of behaviour, the research also shows that shoppers are increasingly choosing brands that have eco-friendly values.
Businesses, both large and small, are responding to this and we are seeing something of an “eco-awakening”. Last month Positive.News reported that, “businesses are learning to embrace sustainability in pursuit, not only of slashing emissions but also bolstering growth”.
Cristianne Close, Global Markets Practice Leader for WWF International says “Brands that deliver on pursuit of purpose, that drive a culture of sustainable innovation, are the front runners in consumers’ eyes – and they are watching.”
We have some great local examples of business who are taking cutting their carbon emissions seriously. These include big local names like Betty’s and Taylors who have established a carbon neutral supply chain for their tea and coffee. But also, small businesses like Full Circle Funeral services who won the Green Funeral Director of the Year award in 2021 and are a certified B Corp.
It’s worth looking out for Certified B Corporations, or B Corps, with thirty-eight Yorkshire companies meeting the high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability that this certification requires. Other Harrogate B Corps include HR Rockstars, Neom and the Flotilla Group.
At Zero Carbon Harrogate we see a fabulous opportunity to support this diverse community of organisations and businesses on their sustainability journey as we strive towards a low carbon, thriving economy. Why not follow us on Facebook and let us know about the local sustainable businesses you support?
We’ve teamed up with local businesses and consultants to develop an online survey to find out how we can help organisations with their carbon reduction plans. Whatever your size or sector, we want to hear from as many organisations as possible, and respondents will have a chance to win a bottle of English Champagne or a box of Booja-Booja vegan chocolates!
The data from the survey will be used to develop themed events and workshops which focus on the areas of most concern to organisations with advice from guest speakers and experts. Find the survey on the home page of our website www.zerocarbonharrogate.org.uk
Jemima Parker
Photo – ZCH Business Survey is seeking views from Harrogate across the area (Photo Credit Edun Oluwole)
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