400 businesses join Aston University’s regional decarbonisation programme

The West Midlands Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme is designed to help small companies reduce emissions, save money, and gain expertise. 

Aligned with the UK Government’s climate target of hitting net zero carbon output but 2050, more than 400 small businesses have now joined the initiative.

Participants receive specialist advice tailored to their specific circumstances, undergo energy audits, and have opportunities to engage in one-to-one mentoring sessions, webinars, workshops, and peer network meetings. Aston University experts involved in the scheme, led by Prasanta Dey, Professor of Operations and Information Management, are working with Black Country Industrial Cluster (BCIC) and Coventry City Council on the project.

Last month, the University hosted the first of six workshops on navigating grants and net zero implementation at its Business School. More than 80 businesses registered for the event, which featured&nbsp renowned industry experts, including Robin Carruthers (Central Mailing Services), Tony Sartorius (Alucast Limited) and Dr Suresh Patel (Birmingham City Council). Invaluable insights were shared, strategies discussed, and grant systems signposted, concluding with a Q&A. 

‘I am delighted to see the programme reach this very important milestone in its journey towards sustainability. With over 400 businesses registered across the West Midlands region, the programme is making remarkable strides in supporting enterprises on their path to reducing energy consumption and achieving net-zero carbon emissions,’ said Professor Dey. 

‘Looking ahead I am excited to continue engagement with SMEs through our upcoming workshops scheduled for March. These workshops offer a unique opportunity for businesses to deepen their understanding of sustainability practices, connect with industry leaders and contribute to the collective effort in achieving net-zero carbon emissions,’ he continued. ‘Together, we can create a greener, more resilient future for our communities and planet.’

The West Midlands Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme remains open for registration. Full details can be found here.  

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Image: Jo Szczepanska