Toucan

Small businesses are saving £58 million a year by using an online government service set up to help firms understand environmental law.

According to the government, over half of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) do not believe that good environmental practice can lead to reduced operating costs.

Yet a survey from netregs.gov.uk, a free environmental guidance website, shows poor awareness of environmental law cost small firms around £2.4 million in fines last year, while greener strategies can also save money through less waste.

John Holbrow, chairman of the environment and energy policy unit at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "Environmental awareness should be a top priority for small businesses to help them not only to save costs but also to improve their competitive edge."

Martin Brocklehurst, head of external programmes at the Environment Agency, comments: "We know small and medium-sized businesses struggle to keep on top of environmental regulations, but in such a challenging financial climate it is more important than ever that they take advantage of the potential savings of going green.

He added: "This research dispels the assumption that environmental compliance often comes with an added cost. With free, plain English guidance, NetRegs can show how compliance can make businesses more economical and competitive, and we urge all UK SMEs to sign up to NetRegs to keep on top of environmental law."

© Adfero Ltd