Can Small Businesses Really Make a Dent in Net Zero?

Why the collective actions of SMEs are more powerful than you might think.

When conversations around Net Zero take place, they’re often dominated by the actions of multinational corporations or carbon-heavy industries. Yet the reality is that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up more than 99% of UK businesses and collectively, they have a huge role to play in achieving climate targets.

The scale may be smaller, but the impact is anything but.

Small steps, big difference

While it’s easy to assume that Net Zero targets are only relevant to large businesses with dedicated sustainability teams, the journey towards reducing emissions is both achievable and beneficial for smaller organisations too.

Whether you operate from a single office or manage a small supply chain, your day-to-day decisions on energy use, procurement, travel and more all contribute to your carbon footprint. And when thousands of businesses take positive steps, the outcome becomes transformational.

Net Zero isn’t about perfection. It’s about making consistent, measurable progress and the sooner you start, the more manageable (and cost-effective) that journey becomes.

Where to begin: practical steps for SMEs

The good news? You don’t need a major overhaul to get started. Here are five manageable, high-impact ways small businesses can begin reducing their carbon footprint:

1. Measure what matters

Begin with an energy audit or a basic carbon footprint assessment. Understanding your key sources of emissions whether that’s heating, electricity, staff travel, or supply chain activity gives you a solid foundation for action.

2. Switch to renewable energy

One of the simplest steps is to move to a green energy tariff. It’s often cost-neutral and delivers immediate reductions in your reported emissions.

3. Improve energy efficiency

Small upgrades such as installing LED lighting, using smart thermostats, or improving insulation can significantly lower energy consumption and bills.

4. Involve your team

Your staff are central to success. From switching off equipment to supporting cycle-to-work schemes, behavioural changes can have a real impact when supported with clear internal goals.

5. Communicate your commitment

More and more customers want to align with businesses that reflect their values. By sharing your sustainability efforts openly even if they’re small you build trust and accountability.

Support is out there

You don’t have to go it alone. There’s growing support for SMEs on the path to sustainability:

• Funding and grants: Local and national schemes are available for clean heat, insulation, and low-carbon technology.

• Partnerships: Working with suppliers who share your Net Zero goals can amplify your efforts.

• External expertise: An energy consultant can help you build a realistic plan — tailored to your operations and budget.

Moving from intent to action

Net Zero can feel like a distant goal, especially when you’re juggling the demands of running a business. But small businesses have a unique advantage: the ability to act quickly and adapt. Every change you make no matter how small contributes to a bigger picture of positive impact.

Whether you’re just beginning or building on existing efforts, the most important step is the next one.

Need help making your first steps count?

We support SMEs with tailored energy audits, compliance planning, and practical sustainability strategies. If you're ready to take action or just want to understand where to begin get in touch.