Businesses cut back on eco plans

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Businesses hit by the credit crunch are failing to invest in water and energy efficiency, new research suggests.

A study from the Environment Agency has revealed that due to economic necessity, 55% of UK businesses plan to cut back on future investment in sustainability.

Furthermore, over half of companies admit they do not have any form of environmental policy in place.

Just 15% of businesses surveyed had a water efficiency policy in place.

Ian Barker, head of water resources at the Environment Agency said: “It is vital that businesses remain committed to best practice throughout this difficult economic period. Whilst we appreciate the strains that company finances are under, the majority of efficiency measures actually reduce costs by reducing water and energy use.”

Envirowise, the government-funded programme to help businesses with the sustainable use of resources, estimates that UK companies could save £9m a day through simple water efficiency measures.

To showcase best practice in water efficiency, The Environment Agency has launched its Water Efficiency Awards. Businesses can find more details on past winners or enter their own firms at www.water-efficiency-awards.org.uk.