'Green' strategies save SMEs cash

Date: 23rd September 2008

'Green' strategies save SMEs cash

Small businesses are saving £58 million by keeping up to date with environmental legislation, research has shown.

Research by the website netregs.gov.uk found that poor environmental awareness costs small to medium enterprises (SMEs) almost £2.5 million in fines every year.

The government survey also discovered that more than half of SMEs in the UK don't believe that environmental legislation can help them save money.

Martin Brocklehurst, head of external programmes at the Environment Agency, said: "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."

Mr Brocklehurst added that the research dispelled the myth that environmental compliance often comes with added cost.

HM Revenue and Customs has again reminded taxpayers that they have until 31st January to file their self-assessment tax return.