As larger businesses across Wiltshire and Swindon come under increasing pressure to put sustainability at the heart of their operations – smaller suppliers need to consider how their efficiency can help them gain the competitive edge, says Envirowise.
The Programme - which provides free advice on business resource efficiency - suggests that environmental responsibility could soon be a major consideration when it comes to choosing a supplier.
"In a recent industry survey three quarters of the 50 biggest spenders in construction said they were increasingly letting the sustainability factor influence their choice of contractor," says Envirowise Regional Manager for the South West, Paul Gilbert. "We want to ensure that smaller firms across all industry sectors are prepared for the knock-on effect of sustainability becoming a commercial force – which could help them retain and win lucrative contracts for the future."
Envirowise recommends that businesses who have not yet done so conduct a thorough environmental audit of their operations, focusing on the following areas:
- Waste Minimisation - systematic waste reduction could save up to 1% of turnover
- Water Minimisation - spray taps alone could reduce water use by 70%
- Cleaner Design - waste can often be designed-out of products and packaging
- Green Procurement - work with your supply chain to boost resource efficiency
- Reduce Energy Usage - simple steps can dramatically reduce energy loss
Information on getting started in all these areas is available free at the Envirowise website – where eligible companies can also apply for an on-site waste review.
"Any action taken on resource efficiency will contribute to small companies becoming leaner and more competitive – as well as giving them evidence of a sustainable approach.
"Our experience of running the Envirowise Supply Chain Programme with some of the country’s biggest names including ASDA, Marks & Spencer and Manchester United has demonstrated the potential for suppliers at every step of the supply chain to cut costs and lower their environmental impact," continues Paul.
Michael Williams, Chief Executive of the Wessex Association of Chamber and Commerce said: "Sustainability is quickly moving up the agenda for many companies in Swindon, and an increasing number seek evidence of this when sourcing new suppliers.
Our small businesses can benefit greatly by considering how they can make the most of changing trends like these at the earliest opportunity. Taking advantage of the wealth of free advice available through local Business Links and organisations such as Envirowise is an ideal place to start."
For further information businesses can call the confidential Advice Line on 0800 585 794 or visit the Envirowise websiteor Business Link on 08456 009 006.
- Ends -
Issued on behalf of Envirowise by Harrison Cowley. Media Contacts: Rod Dennis or Louise Harris at Harrison Cowley on 0117 929 2311.
Notes to Editors
About Envirowise
Envirowise delivers a valuable programme of confidential advice to UK businesses. This advice enables businesses to improve profitability and reduce environmental impact.
Independent, practical and proven guidance is available through the Envirowise Advice Line, information resources and on site visits* delivered by a national team of expert advisors. Each solution is driven by the specific needs of individual firms, to genuinely improve their business practices, profitability and competitiveness. Since 1994, Envirowise has helped UK industry save over £1 billion. The Envirowise programme is available to any UK business, completely free of charge. For more information visit the Envirowise website or call 0800 585 794.
About the Research
- Supply chain research was carried out by Critical 2 in September 2005, amongst retail and wholesale businesses employing between six and 250 people – on behalf of Envirowise.
- Top 50 construction spenders survey conducted by Building magazine in conjunction with Camargue in May 2006.
* Please note that different services are available in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales – please contact our Advice Line on 0800 585 794 for more information on whether you are eligible for a site visit.