Environmental issues are climbing the agenda for small businesses, according to a new report.
Nearly three-quarters of small and medium-sized businesses believe good green practice is important, according to NetRegs, the government site providing guidance on environmental regulations.
Awareness on green issues is also increasing among small firms, the research found. Just under 80% said they knew more about environmental issues now than they did five years ago.
“This research shows that small businesses are taking their environmental responsibilities seriously and what's more they expect the businesses they work with to do the same,” said Richard Martin, programme manager at NetRegs.
Martin said although small companies were working hard to make their operations more eco-friendly, many were still unaware of the information and guidance available.
Despite the good intentions of many small businesses, 60% are still unaware of specific regulations that apply to their industry.
The research also found that although most businesses have good intentions when it comes to green practices, they are not always followed through.
A promising 86% said they felt it was important that contractors they employ dispose of waste properly. However, 66% admitted they did not always check this was being carried out.
More reassuringly though, 53% said they would choose a greener contractor even if it cost more to do so.
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2007
