Businesses Inspired by Climate Change Conference

Many businesses which were surveyed are being inspired by having the United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26, on their doorstep in Glasgow this November.

More than 70% of those surveyed are embracing the sustainability agenda as a core aspect of their business according to an exclusive Business Insider and Bank of Scotland sustainability survey.

The survey involved 200 of Scotland’s leading companies with a turnover of over £100m-plus, with results which confirmed, overall, businesses recognise there is a growing imperative to do much more for the environment.

A key motivating factor is because it is the “right thing” to do, with 70% of companies that responded said it is their “moral obligation to society” to improve sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint.

However, many are still unclear on how they can reach a zero-carbon future and many are also unaware of the Green Funding options which are available to help support them.

“This is a very timely survey and shows that Scottish businesses really are embracing sustainable change and want to do the right thing for their companies and for the wider world,” said Kenny Kemp, the acting editor of Scottish Business Insider.

“But there is still a blockage of companies unclear about the policies for sustainable futures and the right track to follow.

“What is also clear is that there is a gap in knowledge and understanding about the availability of 'Green Financing', which suggests there is a significant opportunity for both borrowers and lenders to help accelerate the move towards zero carbon.”