New free scheme enabling greener business
A new green scheme for businesses based in the Winchester area will be launched at the Sustainable Business Network meeting on Friday 16 September at Sparsholt College near Winchester.
The Green Impact scheme for Winchester, which is free to participating businesses, is being commissioned by Winchester City Council and delivered in partnership with the Department for Sustainability at the National Union of Students (NUS). This will be the first time the national scheme, which involves local students in the assessment process, has been provided by a city council for use by businesses.
The new sustainability, awareness and engagement scheme will help businesses on their journey towards reducing costs and carbon emissions, improving social inclusion and wellbeing as well as enhancing their reputation and providing competitive advantage.
Cllr Steve Miller, Portfolio Holder for Estates and the Local Economy, said:
In running my own business, green business makes sound sense financially, as well as being good for the environment. Not only does it help me to reduce my annual fuel bills, but it also ensures my business is well-placed to appeal to the increasingly ‘green savvy’ consumer.
Winchester City Council’s support through the Green Impact Winchester scheme complements the assistance offered via the Sustainable Business Network and will link to the Green Business of the Year award at the Winchester Business Excellence Awards.
An information hub for sustainable business practices is also being developed and will be available on the Council’s website in conjunction with the Green Impact Winchester scheme. This combination of support is designed to help businesses and employers make real progress with becoming sustainable organisations.
Rob Young, Vice-President for Society and Citizenship, from the National Union of Students, added:
It’s a simple scheme, which involves businesses using a toolkit of suggested actions to improve their sustainability. Businesses can choose to work towards a bronze, sliver or gold level accreditation. By involving local students we are engaging tomorrow’s leaders, customers and employees with the local business community to raise awareness about sustainability in practice.
The workbook will take each business through a step-by-step process of making easy improvements to their green credentials. Once audited, each participating employer will be celebrated, culminating in the most proactive businesses competing for the coveted ‘Green Business of the Year’ award.
Local businesses within the Winchester district are welcome to come along to the launch event. To book a free space visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/winning-business-local-green-schemes-to-get-ahead-tickets-26776601536
or email Richard@futuresouth.org
If you are interested in signing up to the Green Impact Winchester scheme but are unable to attend the event which is at 8am on 16 September please email ecodev@winchester.gov.uk