Green for Business - Using Green Consultancy Voucher to access support
About this good practice
Green for Business Voucher was introduced because of the Irish Governments Climate Action Plan of 2021 which aims to take action to achieve a 51% reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and to reach net-zero emissions. Green for businesss is open to enterprises with up to 50 employees. Qualifying businesses will access two days of intensive mentoring including a sustainability audit and action plan, designed to help 'green' their business. This programme offers free advice and technical support on resource efficiency, how to better understand their carbon footprint and how to implement an environmental management system to reduce costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The support is free of charge for eligible enterprises and represents the potential for increased efficiencies.
Resources needed
The service is delivered via consultancy with support from the LEO Offices.
Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) in Ireland is a network of 31 offices across the country in Local Authorities which are designed to provide support and assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs at a local level.
Evidence of success
This good practice encourages and supports the adoption of green strategies in micro-enterprises to allow them to face the challenges of the 21st century. Each project includes a report written by the delivering consultant outlining the carbon footprint of the business and the proposed green solutions to current challenges. This report is then used by the LEO to develop a framework for implementation with the client, often involving the provision of financial support to assist with projects.
Potential for learning or transfer
The Green for business is a designed and delivered method which addresses the challenges of SMEs adopting sustainable enterprises for immediate application within SMES and eliminates barriers among SMEs in starting on their sustainable journey. The Green for business is an example of good practice which could be adopted and replicated across Europe. Green for Business has provided micro-enterprises with access to expertise which has assisted them in understanding their carbon footprint and how to monitor this going forward.
This model could be adopted by agencies providing supports to micro-enterprises in any country in Europe.
Further information
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.