Rochdale businesses can now get support for their journey to net zero

A new online programme designed to help Rochdale businesses to cut their carbon footprint and reduce their costs has been launched by GC Business Growth Hub.

‘Journey to Net Zero’ is aimed at SMEs across Greater Manchester who are at an early stage on the path to net zero emissions.

Delegates will benefit from 10 themed sessions delivered through online workshops, one-to-one advice and shared learning.

The fully-funded programme is delivered by the Hub’s environmental specialists who collectively have more than 150 years’ experience in supporting SMEs to become cleaner, greener and more profitable.

Places for Journey to Net Zero are limited and businesses can apply online now to register at www.businessgrowthhub.com/netzero

Richard Hagan is Managing Director at Rochdale manufacturer Crystal Doors, which recently won the prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.

He said: “I was a complete beginner when I met GC Business Growth Hub, but now we’re on track for net zero by 2022.

“The hub has been the springboard for so much of what Crystal Doors has achieved, which includes reducing our carbon footprint by 75%. If we can do it, any SME can.”
 

Read more: Pioneering Rochdale manufacturer wins rare Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable DevelopmentPublished: 29 April 2021

Journey to Net Zero participants will be guided through what the net zero transition means for them and how to prioritise action.

At the end of the programme, they will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to develop and implement a strategic action plan to cut their emissions, minimise risk, and benefit from greener and more efficient ways of working.

They will also receive ongoing support from advisors and an opportunity to join a network of likeminded businesses, which will offer the programme’s alumni access to latest news, best practice and networking opportunities.

Mark Atherton, Director of Environment at Greater Manchester Combined Authority, said: “Climate change is a fundamental threat to Greater Manchester’s current and future economy.

“To get to carbon neutral by 2038, we all need to play our part to achieve an urgent and significant reduction in carbon emissions.

“I urge all Greater Manchester SME businesses to access this fully-funded programme of support to reduce their environmental impacts, while also building a more robust and profitable business.”

GC Business Growth Hub is part of The Growth Company and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

The hub is also supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Greater Manchester local authorities.