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A Factsheet from

By Liz Barclay

Sustainability matters. How can small firms afford to make the leap?

Businesses are doing it. They’re recycling, reducing waste, keen to switch to sustainable packaging and upgrade to energy-efficient lighting and electric vehicles. The problem for many is that when you start adding up the costs they’re eye watering. It’s not that you don’t care, but with already razor-thin margins will other bills like wages and taxes piling up there’s no stretch left in the elastic.
If you’re a small or micro business owner, “going green” can feel like a luxury you can’t afford.
Another challenge for you though is that your customers are asking how green you are. Regulations are tightening and you care about the planet too. Where’s the balance?

1. Start where you are.
– Reduce single-use plastics.
– Reuse packaging or ask customers to return containers.
– Switch to paperless billing.
– Turn off appliances and lights when not in use.
These aren’t big ticket changes but they build a mindset, shift internal culture and show customers you’re trying.

2. Talk to your suppliers.
Sometimes the more sustainable option is already available and you don’t know about it because you haven’t asked. Could suppliers offer refillables, use greener couriers or combine deliveries? Many suppliers are looking to cut emissions too and it’s possible everyone could save some money.

3. Involve your customers.
Tell your customers how you’re aiming to make your business more sustainable. “We’re working to make our packaging more eco-friendly. Thanks for bearing with us.” Or, “We now offer a 10% discount if you bring your own containers”. They will understand you motivation, appreciate your honesty and be keen to be part of the solution. It’s likely to make them think about changes they could make too.

4. Claim what’s available.
Some councils and trade bodies offer grants or support for small firms trying to be greener. That could mean help replacing old fridges, switching to LED lighting, or improving insulation. Check with your local Growth Hub, LEP, or chamber of commerce. Or it could mean helping you to get the right source of information for your business. Often the thing that stops change happening is not knowing where to go for the information and support that will set you on the road. We can save the planet individually or overnight but we can all contribute and even if that means starting small and taking baby steps it all adds up.

5. Remember: waste costs money.
Cutting down on energy use, over-ordering, spoiled stock, or unnecessary packaging doesn’t just help the planet—it boosts your bottom line. A bakery that reduced food waste saved hundreds of pounds a month. A mobile hairdresser who switched to refills cut product costs by 30%.

6. Shout about your wins.
If you’ve made a switch—tell people. “We now use 100% recycled paper.” “All our packaging is compostable.” It builds trust, shows leadership, and may even attract new customers.

7. Don’t fall for greenwashing.
Be wary of suppliers charging a premium for minor tweaks or vague promises. Just because something’s labelled “eco” doesn’t mean it’s genuinely better—or worth the cost. Do your research. Ask questions. Trust your instincts.

8. Think local.
Buying locally often means fewer miles, less packaging, and a stronger community. It might even lead to collaborations—like shared delivery rounds or bulk purchasing with other traders.

9. Plan long-term.
Yes, some changes cost more upfront. But they might save money later. An energy audit, a water-saving tap, better insulation—they pay for themselves over time. If cashflow’s tight, create a wishlist and tackle it bit by bit.

And finally: don’t beat yourself up.
You’re not a global corporation. You don’t have a sustainability team or a corporate social responsibility budget. You’re doing your best with what you have.
Going green isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And every small step—done with care and consistency—adds up.
Your business can be part of the solution. And it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Register at http://www.business111.com for more factsheets By Liz Barclay