More than 200 businesses encouraged to become net zero heroes at Suffolk Chamber event

Enthusiastic business owners and professionals gathered (27 April) at Trinity Park in Ipswich to find out how they can take their first or next steps towards becoming net zero business heroes.

The How to Be a Net Zero Hero conference, the first in-person event as part of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce’s new net zero series, included talks from a wide range of organisations including Suffolk County Council, New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, SaveMoneyCutCarbon, Vertas, Bouygues E&S and Green Sky Executive.

The expert speakers provided advice and guidance on how to begin the journey to net zero, what it actually means, and the range of support currently available, with opportunities for attendees to engage in real-time Q&A discussions.

Ned Harrison, BEE Project Manager at Suffolk County Council, who spoke at the event said: “Net Zero Carbon is a significant challenge as well as an opportunity for Suffolk’s business community.

“It was hugely encouraging to see so many businesses engaging enthusiastically on the day and we look forward to working with them and the Chamber to help make the aspiration a reality.

“I certainly came away newly inspired by seeing how much the businesses in our region are doing already.

EDF, Groundwork East, Motus Truck & Van and other exhibitors joined the event to offer further advice and support to businesses in areas such as grants, energy, travel and infrastructure, with an additional opportunity to get up close and personal with the latest models in electric bikes and vehicles.

Following great feedback from the conference, Ami Birrell, events manager at Suffolk Chamber, said: “It’s crucial that we continue to expand and strengthen our events programme, ensuring its relevant to the current needs of Suffolk businesses.

“Net zero is a key priority and both businesses and individuals have a joint responsibility in reducing their environmental impact. The overwhelming interest and support from last week’s event shows just how dedicated Suffolk is in playing its part.

“As an organisation, we continue to look at ways we can support businesses in their net zero journey and any steps we can take to help support the sustainability agenda is a step in the right direction. I'm delighted with the event’s success and support it has received and we look forward to the next in our net zero series.

To ensure the event reflected its sustainability values, Suffolk Chamber offered a vegan menu, no single use plastic policy, reduced paper usage and offset estimated carbon emissions from journeys made by attendees, as well as donating excess food to local charity Emmaus, which works towards ending homelessness.

Businesses can access further advice and support by visiting Suffolk Chamber’s Net Zero Hub: suffolkchamber.co.uk/netzero