Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has increased its support for businesses seeking to become more sustainable in how they and their supply chains operate through the launch of a new forum designed to share best practice and identify lobbying asks.

The Net Zero Group, chaired by Richard Buckingham, climate change and carbon manager at Anglian Water, met for the first time this week (19 October).

Members heard from two key organisations about the challenges and opportunities arising from the ambitions of Government, consumers and wider society for companies and wider society to reduce their net carbon emissions to zero.

Professor Darryl Newport of the University of Suffolk and head of the Suffolk Sustainability Institute spoke about the various collaborative opportunities, including funding, that exist for the county’s business communities to develop new and more environmentally-friendly practices.

Malcolm Waugh, chief executive of Ipswich-based Frugalpac outlined the history, ethos and successes of his company – a pioneer in the production of low-carbon bottles made from recyclable paper.

Richard Buckingham observed: “Thanks to the enthusiasm and honesty of the participants and the informative and inspiring presentations from our two speakers, Suffolk Chamber’s Net Zero Group has got off to a flying start.

“Feedback from those present shows that there is a real thirst for a forum for knowledge exchange and partnership thinking and working. This Group aims to be that platform regardless of companies’ sizes or sectors. We genuinely believe that far form being a hindrance, the ambition of a net zero economy are good for innovation, skills and growth.”

In addition to Net Zero group, which is open to all members of Suffolk Chamber, the Chamber has recently launch a Net Zero Hub on its website (https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/net-zero-hub/) offering a enormous range of practical advice and detailed information to assist SMEs in particular to become net zero

Paul Simon, Suffolk Chamber’s head of public affairs & strategic communications added: “Suffolk Chamber continues to increase its investment in its policy and lobbying work as we know this is a longstanding and high-value part of our offer.

“The Net Zero Group, alongside those focussing on transport & infrastructure, people & skills and international trade provide the catalyst for us to better understand what our members need to realise their goals and to deliver the resulting campaigns.”