Dearne Valley Businesses Cut Carbon Emissions and Save Money
Over 40 local businesses attended a breakfast seminar on Friday 25 June to hear how they could cut their energy bills and help address climate change, whilst coping with the impact of the Government’s emergency budget announcement.
The event, the first organised by the Dearne Valley Business Forum, aimed to help local companies identify how they can save money. It also provided an opportunity for companies to network, hear about the latest initiatives in the area and find out how they could take advantage of local opportunities.
The key note speaker at the event was John Healey, local MP for Wentworth and Dearne. With the event coming just three days after the government’s emergency Budget, he was ready to discuss the consequences of this with local businesses. He also talked about the challenges of bringing about a strong economic recovery after the recession.
“We need to ensure that the Dearne Valley area and the businesses in it can work well with public agencies so that they have the best possible basis to be successful in the longer term,” said John.
The event encouraged businesses to sign up to reduce their carbon footprint as part of the wider Dearne Valley Eco-Vision, an ambitious and exciting plan to transform the area into the lowest carbon community of its type in the UK.
Representatives of Dearne businesses heard how the project aims to involve local communities, boost the economy as well as protect and enhance the natural environment of the Valley.
Dearne Valley Eco-Vision Project Manager, Joanne Wehrle, said, “We want all sections of the community in the Dearne Valley to be aware of the impact that their actions are having on the environment and what they can do to minimise this. The good news is that often the steps taken to reduce carbon emissions can result in financial savings for householders and businesses. We want to help local residents and businesses to realise these savings and contribute towards the delivery of the Eco-Vision.”
A host of organisations, including the Barnsley Development Agency, were also be on hand at the event to offer information and advice about free support and grants available to help businesses improve their green credentials.
The Dearne Valley Business Forum exists to help businesses in the Dearne area of Rotherham, Doncaster and Barnsley, to share ideas, address common issues and ultimately help grow their business. Run by local business and business support organisations, the Forum draws on a wealth of practical business experience and public sector support.
The forum website can be accessed at the following link: www.dearnevalleybusinessforum.org.uk