Three 'key changes' need to be made to reach net zero, says BCC

21 Aug 2023

Three 'key changes' are required to help UK businesses hit net zero, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

A report published jointly by the BCC and Lloyds Bank outlines three key changes that should be made to ensure firms reach the government's net zero target.

It recommends that the government review its support and advice to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on moving to net zero.

The report also calls on the government to 'demonstrate commitment and consistency in its net zero plans' and help large businesses to continue to drive behaviour change in their supply chains.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: 'All the businesses we spoke to understand the devastating impact climate change is having on our planet, and that sitting this out is not an option.

'But many smaller firms feel lost in a fog of conflicting information and are reluctant to invest in new technologies when they fear betting on the wrong horse. Mixed messages from the government on the importance of net zero are only compounding the problem, as well as a 'stick' heavy approach to enforcing change.

'In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, firms are reluctant to sink their money into net zero technologies and energy efficiencies when the commercial pay off appears uncertain. We need a coherent system of free support and advice made available for firms across the country.'