Greening Eden – a new initiative from Eden District Council and Cumbria Business Environment Network (CBEN) – has launched to help local businesses reduce their carbon footprint and help them save money at the same time.
Since its inception last month, the programme has seen 12 local businesses sign up to reduce their carbon emissions. The programme has engaged with businesses across a range of sectors, from hospitality to construction, and the first steps are now underway to audit the first dozen businesses.
An Eden District Council spokesperson said: “The Greening Eden project has had a strong start, supporting twelve local businesses in looking at reducing their carbon emissions. The next step is to audit these businesses and build on the first month’s success, to promote a green economy in Eden.”
Through the scheme, firms across Eden are able to measure their greenhouse gas emissions and, working alongside CBEN, identify opportunities for reduction.
Eden District Council has also announced a funding pot of £400,000 to help businesses with works that can help to achieve lower carbon emissions. Applications for grant funding of up to £10,000 per business, will be welcomed following assessment with CBEN. The grant rate will be around 50% of the total cost of investment for capital investments that deliver significant carbon reductions.
Philip Wanless, Partner at CBEN said, “Awareness of climate change and the need to measure and reduce carbon emissions is increasing, but many organisations are not sure how to begin this process.
“By participating in ‘Greening Eden’, CBEN and EDC will work with you to understand what is required and why, and then help you move towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
“CBEN have been contacting potential applicants, but companies can contact us directly by emailing greeningeden@cben.co.uk.”
The project is being funded by Eden District Council as part of its ambitions for a net-zero, environmentally sustainable Eden and Cumbria.
More information and contact details for the Greening Eden businesses project can be found at www.cben.co.uk/greening-eden.
