Suffolk’s Carbon Charter brings net zero within reach of county businesses

One local authority has successfully engaged SMEs in a climate accreditation programme, helping organisations see net zero as an achievable opportunity rather than unobtainable goal.

We launched the Suffolk Carbon Charter in 2010, partnering with the Environment Agency and Groundwork to provide ongoing support to SMEs who were making commitments to sustainability and steps towards net zero. From the start the aim was to create continuous environmental improvement within the business community, transforming early sustainability efforts into enduring practices.

Initially reliant on funding from the EU, we have transitioned to a model where businesses pay for their involvement. This shift is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Charter and demonstrating its value to participating businesses. The approach has been validated by the membership’s continued growth.

Originally, the idea stemmed from observing a critical gap in long-term engagement for SMEs. While initial support like energy audits and advice were helpful, it lacked a feeling of continuation. Businesses would receive their reports but only implement the recommendations sporadically. We realised that for sustainable practices to take root, businesses needed continuity and a framework that supported and rewarded ongoing commitment and accountability.

One key insight came from a Carbon Trust report, which revealed that businesses that monitor and report their energy use automatically reduce it by around 10%. This finding became a cornerstone of the Charter’s framework, helping us to design a tiered accreditation system that promotes continuous progress.

By achieving a Bronze, Silver or Gold status, businesses can showcase their sustainability achievements and progress, with each level reflecting a deeper commitment and more significant actions. Gold level businesses then become beacon companies and share their experiences and successes with others through publicity and networking.

This type of accreditation structure has been an incredibly effective way to encourage businesses to reach greater levels of sustainable practice. Bronze indicates that a business has a plan and is managing its environmental impact. Silver signifies notable reductions and practical changes, while Gold represents a business that not only manages its footprint but also leads by example within the community.

One of our most significant successes has been working with the East of England Co-Op across Suffolk and Norfolk, who have not only seen 27 of their own stores attain Charter status, but actively encourage their supply chain to as well. They do this by subsidising the cost of the programme for small, independent suppliers, making the process even more accessible and ensuring resilience and sustainability throughout their supply network.

Being recognised at the ADEPT awards is testament to everything we’ve achieved as a team and to the efforts of the SMEs we support. I often say, the biggest impact comes from bringing others along on the journey. Sustainability is not an individual effort but a collective movement towards a better future.

Through networking and publicity efforts, we’ve created a platform where businesses can learn from each other, a peer-to-peer learning model that has been hugely impactful in inspiring others to achieve more.

The visibility of successful businesses has helped to normalise sustainable practices. Seeing examples like solar panels or electric vehicles in use, significantly influences other businesses to adopt similar measures. It’s a form of validation, making sustainability a tangible and achievable goal.

Going forwards, we’d like to engage new types of organisations, including those in the voluntary and community sectors. We are working to increase recognition of the Charter and other accreditations within procurement policies, while enhancing our brand and resource offerings to ensure businesses continue to see the value in their investment.

Our future will be shaped by the evolving needs of businesses. Initially we attracted small, passionate, environmentally minded businesses. Over time, we’ve seen a broader range of participants, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability across all sectors. Our challenge now is to maintain this momentum and support businesses in navigating the complex landscape of net zero commitments and sustainable practices.

Ned Harrison is Carbon Negative, Nature Positive Programme Manager for Suffolk County Council. The authority won in the Delivering Clean Growth category at this year’s ADEPT President’s Awards. 

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Image: Suffolk County Council