Researchers polled 500 small businesses and discovered that nearly two thirds British business owners, and senior business decision makers, think it’s important to embrace environmental issues, with many also seeing financial benefits as a result.
According to new research by Smart Energy GB, when it comes to being more eco-friendly, 40 percent now turn off devices and machinery when they’re not in use, 36 percent always recycle old IT equipment and 36 percent have even introduced a recycling policy. One in three admit they are keeping a closer eye on their energy bills, with 76 percent of those polled saying they have had a smart meter installed, helping them manage energy costs , and manage their energy usage .
Other ways in which small businesses are committing to become more sustainable include turning down the boiler temperature , updating their fleet to electric vans and vehicles , reducing business travel , implementing a work from home policy to reduce commuter miles and changing to a renewable energy supplier .
“Getting a smart meter installed is one small thing small business owners can also do. The data from smart meters can help give owners more control over their business’ energy spend, help them monitor their energy usage and identify where costs savings can be made. By helping them to take steps to be more efficient with their energy use, they can also have a positive effect on a business’ carbon footprint, as well as helping them save money.