Highland firms aim to go green

THE vast majority of businesses in the Highlands and Islands are exploring ways of reducing their impact on the environment.

The latest Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE) survey of 1000 businesses across its area shows that 93 per cent of companies are aiming to reduce their environmental impact by taking steps such as minimising waste and improving the energy efficiency of premises.

Almost three quarters (72 per cent) of larger firms (25 or more employees) are investing in more energy efficient equipment.

Mitigating carbon emissions from transport presents a challenge to the 97 per cent of businesses who are reliant on this for their daily operations. Using more locally sourced supplies (62 per cent), investing in more energy efficient transport (47 per cent) and collaborating to achieve efficiencies (46 per cent) are some of the actions businesses anticipate taking.

At a time of uncertainty for businesses, the survey also found that four in five businesses reported good (41 per cent) or steady (38 per cent) performance in the past 12 months. Levels of optimism about their prospects remain high with 72 per cent optimistic for the next year.

Most businesses (89 per cent) see the UK’s departure from the EU as a risk to their business; 36 per cent describe it as a significant risk. Despite this, only half (52 per cent) said they felt prepared for Brexit.

HIE’s Martin Johnson said: “It is encouraging to see so many businesses responding to the climate emergency.”

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