19 August 2024

Activating the power of businesses and organisations

Shelves of local veg
Home Facts Activating the power of businesses and organisations

 

Activating the power of businesses and organisations

 

Businesses are at the heart of our economy, providing jobs, services, products and keeping the money flowing through our communities. The way we run our businesses and organisations is also fundamental to addressing the climate crisis and to nature’s recovery. Our economy will only thrive within healthy ecosystems and resilient communities – supported by purposeful, responsible organisations that deliver positive outcomes for the environment and for people.

 

 

Wholefood supplier takes climate action

 

Suma Wholefoods, a signatory of the YHCC’s Climate Action Pledge, launched their sustainability strategy in 2023. The Calderdale based co-op has over 300 workers and distributes vegetarian and sustainable products to businesses and communities across the UK and internationally. They have already taken significant steps to reduce their environmental impact including:

 

  • Volunteering and partnering with local tree planting organisations to help prevent flooding in their local area
  • Purchasing trucks fuelled by bio-gas made from food waste which results in 84% fewer emissions than the diesel equivalent
  • Using 100% renewable energy for their own operations
  • Reducing packaging waste and plastic use wherever possible

 

Their new sustainability strategy addresses several key areas including carbon emissions, supporting local suppliers and organic agriculture, and promoting Fair Trade and B Corp practices. Specific targets in the strategy include becoming a net zero business by 2035 and ensuring all products they stock have at least one form of ethical verification by 2030.

 

Businesses become carbon literate in Barnsley

 

 

Businesses and organisations in Barnsley are taking advantage of new sustainability and carbon literacy courses created by the local Positive Climate Partnership’s climate education group 75. Inspired by the commitment from Barnsley College to train all staff in carbon literacy, the group decided to create a similar opportunity for other employers in the borough.

The carbon literacy training course – tailor made for Barnsley’s businesses dives deep into the critical issues surrounding climate change, exploring its causes, impacts and what actions businesses need to take. It’s not just about adapting to the challenges of climate change: it’s about thriving in the face of these challenges. Designed to empower businesses, this comprehensive and accredited course equips participants with the knowledge and tools to make significant progress on their journey towards reducing emissions.

The course – funded by local training provider ITS and consultants Enzygo – was delivered to 37 individuals from 18 organisations in the first tranche of training sessions. The training offer has since expanded to provide two courses for businesses: an introductory workshop on climate issues, and the full Carbon Literacy Project accredited course.

 

barnsley carbon literacy case study

Related