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The arguments surrounding global warming are getting as hot as the planet. The extreme weather changes, pollution in our oceans and extinct wildlife have given the world a serious wake up call. We are all responsible for making the world a greener place. Here in Britain, we are more environmentally conscious than ever before. Many people are installing solar panels, driving electric cars, recycling their rubbish and using less water.
It makes sense, therefore, that businesses are also committed to reducing their carbon footprint. They need to consider how they can reduce their waste and contribute positively to the environment. Do UK businesses need flood insurance? Should they be using solar energy? Can they set up a recycling centre in the workplace? These questions may seem a bit far-fetched or pre-emptive, but they are rapidly becoming something that UK businesses need to devote time to.
In ranking the severity of environmental threats, the UK Committee on Climate Change states that cities have an important role to play. They believe that cities are key to building a low-carbon economy, since over 80% of people in Britain live in an urban setting.
CCC Findings
- Emissions from cities must fall significantly: Our businesses, cultural centres, transport links and homes all emit greenhouse gas emissions that are toxic for the environment. Higher levels of these emissions are generated in cities so we need to work together to ensure that they fall considerably over the coming years. The UK has legally-binding climate change targets that we're currently not achieving. The increased temperatures and rapidly fluctuating weather are serious challenges facing our society and these challenges look set to worsen. The good news is that UK cities have the ability to create sustainable change. We can engage our residents, businesses and service providers to be mindful of their carbon footprint and to set goals every day to reduce it.
- Adapting our cities for changes in the environment: The Office for National Statistics states that over the next decade, there will be an increase in the number of people living in our cities. This will add to the current pressure on vital resources such as water, electricity and transport links. It is vital that key partnerships are established between local authorities so that they can take the lead and reduce their impact on the environment.
Flooding
Flooding, it can be assumed, is the biggest environmental threat to UK businesses. This was highlighted in a recent BBC News article outlining parts of Wales that were severely impacted by Storm Callum. Wales experienced the worst flood in 30 years and one man lost his life in a landslide. Locals were advised to stay at home after homes were flooded and many went without power for several days.
According to the National Geographic, sea levels have been rising approximately 3.2 millimetres each year for the past two decades.
The CCC estimate that flooding in the winter of 2013-2014 had an £831 million price tag for small UK businesses. They also state that by 2050 “expected annual damages are projected to increase between 26% and 68%, equivalent to a £150 million to £400 million increase.”
Flood insurance, then, is becoming increasingly vital for UK businesses. Many agree that, at some point, a policy will pay for itself. There are precautions that can be taken, of course, but having a plan ready is arguably the best defence.
Changing temperatures affect water levels, but they also affect workplace environments. In Australia, where summer temperatures regularly climb into the 30s, productivity drops sharply, costing businesses $6.2 billion U.S. dollars, according to the BBC.
It is unlikely most businesses will ever find a temperature that leaves everyone entirely happy, but being aware that a discrepancy in desired temperatures exists can be helpful, making leaders more aware of individuals' comfort needs. It may also be useful to purchase small desk fans for employees who complain of the office always being too hot, if the rest of your employees prefer it warm. It is reasonable for employees to bring in sweaters, but there needs to be a cooling option available as well.
Solar Panels
To power those fans, UK businesses could consider solar panels. The panels assist with slowing environmental changes, as they use the sun’s rays rather than solely electricity. They can also save your business money, as there are government incentive programmes in place to encourage the use of cleaner energy. Your exact discounts and rebates will vary depending on your business’ size and location, but it is worth considering.
Similarly, van-based businesses can consider investing in electric or hybrid vehicles to save on petrol expenses. There may be tax credits or reductions available for businesses that take steps to reduce their carbon footprint by utilising hybrid vans.
The global climate may seem slightly bleak, but there are steps UK businesses can take to ensure they are prepared for it. It is also vital to remember that any changes are going to be gradual, altering at an incredibly slow pace, so there is no need to panic. If your business is not considering its environmental impact, you can begin now. If you’re just starting your business, you have plenty of time to implement an environmentally conscious plan and be prepared for any problems that may arise.
On the flipside, if you are looking to begin your franchise business now, perhaps you could open a green solutions or clean energy business, helping other businesses realise their green potential! There are plenty of businesses that could benefit from such services, so the market is quite considerable.