Many SMEs aspire to become more sustainable and contribute to a net zero future, but often don’t know where to begin. Net Zero Nation recently launched a nationwide initiative to support companies in their pursuit of sustainability and climate action. More than just measuring emissions and producing carbon reduction plans, the program helps SMEs to normalise Sustainability and Net Zero to become a persistent, everyday practice embedded into business operations.
The official launch of the Rolling Net Zero Accelerator took place at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh, on Thursday, June 20th.
Nearly three years ago, Net Zero Nation, a not-for-profit social enterprise, introduced the innovative Net Zero Accelerator program. Since then, the program has empowered hundreds of SMEs to develop and implement Net Zero strategies, making them more resilient, efficient, and competitive while addressing climate change.
Gavin Tweedie, CEO and Founder of Net Zero Nation, reflected: “The last three years have flown by since we launched the first pilot Accelerator program. We’ve since run 15 cohorts, and the advocacy from companies in the first three years has inspired more to join the movement and speed up their Net Zero plans. Our main goal is to build the confidence to act. When companies see the benefits others are gaining by treating Net Zero as a business opportunity, it encourages them to prioritise it. We are looking forward to meeting with organisations equally determined to collaboratively go faster and further in tackling climate change and become stronger as a result.”
Those in the construction industry have particularly embraced the program to drive the Net Zero transition. Just some of those commiting to Net Zero include; Aynam Energy, Booth Welsh, Kinetic Demolition, WJ Electrical, Diamond Industrial, Scott Direct, Caithness Engineering Services, JGC Engineering, DM Roofing, J&D Pierce, James Ramsey Boilers, Luddon Construction, McTaggart Group, Marshall Construction, Mclaughlin Construction, Foundation Solutions, Ayrshire Agencies and Foundry Steels ltd. They are shaping and influencing the next generation of companies to start their own journeys towards Net Zero.
One notable success story is from an Ayrshire company in the Net Zero Accelerator program, which secured a national seven-figure contract, outcompeting much larger international firms, and received commendation for the quality and credibility of their Net Zero plan. Such rewards await those who prioritise a credible Net Zero strategy as a business imperative.
Net Zero Nation goes beyond ticking boxes, meeting minimum requirements, and adopting short-term approaches. They focus on deeply integrating Net Zero into business operations through a multi-year program, recognising that this transition takes time. Their program offers a realistic, time-based transformation of operations, brand, and culture, supported by a community of like-minded individuals who provide the inspiration and confidence to take action.
Head of Business Systems at SD Wind Energy, Anna Mutter said: “This is a first class programme for any organisation who wants to do the right thing but isn’t sure where to start. There is great value in being part of a motivated community of organisations with shared goals.”
The Accelerator program supports groups of SMEs over a year, fostering peer review, shared progress, and collective learning. Participants benefit from Net Zero Nation’s ecosystem services, including a Net Zero certified business directory and fortnightly learning and networking sessions. They also receive carbon accounting software, training, expert assistance, a validated carbon reduction plan aligned with Science-Based Targets, and certification, ensuring a clearly defined pathway to Net Zero. This comprehensive support structure continuously available over a period of years equips SMEs to make significant contributions to climate change mitigation and achieve long-term sustainable success.
