100 Greater Manchester SMEs take steps to net zero via fully-funded programme

Journey to Net Zero is an online cohort programme for SMEs across Greater Manchester that are at an early stage on the journey to net zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Delivered by expert advisors from our Sustainability and Net Zero Service, JTNZ supports senior decision makers through the process of understanding the net zero agenda, improving their operations, leveraging sustainability credentials for competitive advantage, setting targets and implementing a clear strategy to achieve them.

Commenting on the importance of net zero to all businesses, Kevin Lambert, the Growth Hub’s Sustainability and Net Zero Lead, said:

“Reaching net zero can be a big challenge, but with support, you can build a strategic plan to cut your carbon footprint, reduce costs, minimise risk and make the most of the many opportunities awaiting you in the net zero world.”

Among the 107 businesses that have already been through the JTNZ programme is Manchester-based textile supplier Thomas Kneale. The company’s Director, Brett Mendell, said:

“The course was really insightful with lots of information and pointers for us to go and look into, which has been really important for us to be able to take the next steps and accurately measure and judge progress as it is made.

“Beforehand we knew what net zero was but didn’t know how to get there and the course has given us the knowledge and information as to how to start the journey.

“We’ve signed up to a carbon calculator and inputted all of our data from 2018 onwards to look at how we are reducing our carbon footprint over time. That’s helping to drive our activities, actions, discussions and decisions.”

Also among the alumni is Bolton-based manufacturer Quantum Profile Systems Ltd. Product Manager, Dr Diane Luther, said of her experience:

“JTNZ was really good because it explained what activities you have to track and what is actually relevant to your business. Hearing from people from very different situations was insightful – a small office in Manchester city centre has to take a very different approach to net zero than us, for example. It was really good to get that broad spectrum and understand how net zero affects businesses differently.”

To find out more and register your interest in the next cohort of JTNZ, visit www.businessgrowthhub.com/netzero.

Greater Manchester manufacturers can also benefit from additional one-to-one support to become leaner and greener via our specialist Manufacturing Service.