Challenges Faced by SMEs in Decarbonisation

How can small businesses contribute to fighting climate change?

Small businesses, like The Collective, play a crucial role in tackling climate change by implementing sustainable and ethical business practices. By focusing on reducing carbon footprints, these companies can thrive while contributing to a greener future. The Collective, a UK-based SME, demonstrates this by supplying and installing recycled PET acoustic panels and working with partners like Sage Earth for carbon impact insights.

What are practical ways to implement sustainability in business?

Implementing sustainability doesn't necessarily mean incurring high costs or investing significant time. Businesses can start by reassessing their supply chains to source materials locally, which reduces transport emissions and costs. The Collective, for example, switched to a UK manufacturer for their suspension systems, reducing costs and lead times while supporting local businesses. Companies should also focus on reducing waste and optimising travel methods to further decrease their carbon impact.

Why is it important to record and reduce emissions?

Recording and reducing emissions are vital for businesses to meet sustainable accreditation targets like LEED, BREEAM, and WELL, which are often required for new projects with multinational clients. Ignoring sustainability can lead to losing business opportunities, as clients increasingly demand sustainability information. By committing to decarbonisation, companies not only secure their future but also contribute to a sustainable global economy.

How did The Collective address their decarbonisation challenges in 2023?

In 2023, The Collective aimed to reduce their carbon intensity despite experiencing growth. By focusing on key areas like waste reduction, minimising air travel, and reducing adhesive use, they successfully decreased their emissions. For instance, they developed a new acoustic product, RE.WRAP, which utilises waste materials, and implemented a Take Back scheme for recycling PET acoustic panelling. These efforts are part of their commitment to achieving net zero by 2030.

What steps did The Collective take to reduce waste?

The Collective adopted innovative measures to minimise waste, such as optimising material efficiency through CNC cutting machines and developing the RE.WRAP product line. This product reuses waste from panel production, and the company invested in recycling technology to process smaller waste materials. By closing the circularity gap in PET acoustics, they turned waste into valuable resources and created opportunities for growth.

How did The Collective reduce their air travel emissions?

The Collective shifted from domestic flights to train travel, significantly cutting their CO2 emissions by 52% and reducing costs. They addressed the perceived time constraints of flying by allowing additional travel time for train journeys, which had only a slight increase in duration compared to flying. This change not only lessened environmental impact but also reduced stress for project managers by improving time management during site visits.

How did The Collective tackle the issue of adhesive use?

To reduce adhesive-related emissions, The Collective focused on simplifying their product lifecycle by minimising material mixing. They collaborated with a UK manufacturer to develop a demountable panel system using recyclable materials, such as PET, which facilitates recycling and reduces emissions. This approach enhances sustainable practices and positions The Collective as a leader in their industry by allowing for easier recycling of their products.

What are some simple changes businesses can make to reduce their carbon impact?

Businesses can make straightforward changes to reduce their carbon footprint, such as sourcing from local suppliers, managing waste effectively, and optimising travel methods. Additionally, companies can benefit from using refurbished equipment, implementing reusable products, and utilising platforms like Sage Earth to identify major emissions sources. These actions not only contribute to sustainability but also provide cost savings and business growth opportunities.