Cost saving solutions

Businesses are wasting more than £6.4 billion per year by overlooking simple money saving actions, according to a new Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) campaign.

Defra is urging businesses in the manufacturing trade to cut down on waste, and reduce energy and water use, in order to reap the financial benefits. The campaign, which stresses 'Saving money - it's your business', illustrates how simple environmental actions translate into cost savings. This is being supplemented with clear practical advice for businesses on how to integrate resource efficient practices into everyday working life.

Hilary Benn, Environment Secretary, says "Small firms are facing challenging times. Finding ways to save money will help businesses retain a competitive edge. Being sustainable is essential - for your bottom line and for the environment. "Simple steps like using less energy or considering what you throw away are easy ways to make savings. Resource efficiency is the future for all businesses." 'Channel 4's 'Dumped' guru and eco-design expert Rob Holdway supports the campaign. He says "Whether it's turning off lights, turning down thermostats, cutting down on rubbish, or addressing dripping taps - small sized manufacturing firms are 'leaking' money through bad use of energy, water supplies or waste products.

More information is available at: www.businesslink.gov.uk/savingmoney.