Green measures 'a big deal' for small firms

Date: 15th January 2009

Energy-efficiency measures are becoming of increasing important to small businesses, an expert has claimed.

According to Erica Russell, a sustainability advisor with Business Link, smaller firms - such as sole traders and partnerships - are switching on to both the cost and environmental benefits of energy saving.

She was also keen to stress that these measures are not necessarily difficult or expensive to implement, with many being transplanted straight from the home.

Ms Russell commented: "Recycling has become normal and more and more people are fitting low energy bulbs and a lot of those ideas are being translated quite comfortably into small businesses.

"When switching off your lights you could save between 18 and 20 per cent on your energy bill. For small businesses that's a pretty big deal."

Small businesses should also remember to complete a self-assessment tax return before January 31st, with all submissions now having to be made online.