More companies than ever are seeking the advice and expertise of the Envirowise programme, and are saving substantial amounts of money as a result.
These are the findings of a new report commissioned by the sustainability experts which shows that companies taking advantage of the free advice offered are saving on average £5,000 each per year – an increase of 150% over the course of a year.
In addition, in just twelve months, the programme helped firms save 17 million litres of water through efficiency measures – enough to fill almost five Olympic-sized swimming pools – as well as a total of almost 85,000 tonnes of raw materials.
And those companies that make use of the programme’s free services are twice as likely to take a positive view of taking environmental action – rather than seeing it as a barrier to business success. *
Elaine Sharp, Programme Marketing Manager, said: “Our latest impact assessment report sends out a powerful message to the region’s businesses – that making good use of the free help and advice that is available through programmes such as Envirowise can save you money.
“The environmental agenda has gripped the country’s businesses, and we know that they are taking action as a result. One of the most positive results of this report is that the majority of companies that have contacted the Envirowise programme recognise that it has given them the tools to take this action, and with clear financial benefits.”
Elaine continued: “There is a strong appetite for taking environmental action within the business world – and the Envirowise programme is well placed to satisfy this with firms in the region, both large and small. I firmly believe we are breaking down the common misperception that taking action on environmental issues is a necessarily costly and time consuming thing to do.”
The Envirowise programme works by providing a range of free services and professional advice to businesses across the UK – including a comprehensive range of publications and good practice case studies, practical workshops for firms, as well as a comprehensive website and advice line.
Companies wanting to take advantage of the services of the Envirowise programme can call 0800 585794 or visit www.envirowise.gov.uk.
* Envirowise England Impact Assessment Report 2006
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Issued on behalf of Envirowise by Trimedia
Media contacts: Peter Stilwell or Rod Dennis at Trimedia on 0117 929 2311
Notes to Editors
About Envirowise
Envirowise is a Government-funded programme dedicated to putting the sustainable use of resources at the heart of UK business practice.
Since 1994 Envirowise has helped UK businesses save over £1bn by enabling them to significantly reduce their environmental footprints.
Envirowise offers businesses of all sizes and sectors a wide range of free, independent and practical advice designed to genuinely improve their processes, profitability and competitiveness. Services include:
- The Environment and Energy Advice Line on 0800 585794
- An encyclopaedic website (www.envirowise.gov.uk) of valuable and relevant information
- Over 200 events each year, from Product Design Workshops to major exhibitions