smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

Approximately half of SMEs view improving their environmental performance as a critical business issue, reveals new research.

The figures, from government agency Envirowise, show that in 1994 only 20 per cent of companies believed there was a connection between environmental issues and profitability.

Now 50 per cent of companies are focussing more upon ensuring environmental good practices are followed in the workplace to save money.

Sarah Van Erp, business advisor at Smart Works says: 'It is something that is becoming more and more important for SMEs; it's not just the bigger companies anymore.'

She adds that one organisation which employs around 65 staff saved up to £1,500 on its annual energy bill through undertaking simple energy saving procedures.

Educating staff, using energy efficient light bulbs and turning equipment off overnight were just some of the approaches taken to reduce energy waste.

Envirowise is a government funded programme which offers free advice to UK businesses on reducing environmental impact.

Smart Works is an environment initiative funded by the London Development Agency. The organisation was established in 1993.

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