Developing a low carbon economy is a priority for us which is why we are involved in a range of projects to help businesses become more resource efficient. 
 
This includes focusing on reducing energy and water bills and reducing, re-using and recycling waste, all of which can contribute to substantial financial and carbon savings.

Where can I go for help?

In South West England, Business Link is delivering a new business resource efficiency service on our behalf.  
 
Businesses looking for environmental business support or advice can call or email Business Link on 0845 600 9966 or email environment@businesslinksw.co.uk.  
 
Further information can also be found on www.businesslinksw.co.uk/environment.  
 
Business Link can help businesses access a range of specialist advice and support services on resource efficiency - including:

• reducing energy bills
• reducing water bills
• reducing, re-using and/or recycling waste
• seeking opportunities to partner other organisations to make better use of resources
• carbon management
• working with supply chains to improve environmental performance

The South West RDA's Business Resource Efficiency programme is focused on the following areas:

• Improving productivity and competitiveness by providing better co-ordinated and focussed business support on resource efficiency and waste minimisation, particularly targeting SMEs and energy and waste intensive business sectors;
• Ensuring that businesses in South West England can and do access the full range of resource efficiency business support available. The Business Link service in the region are now able to advise businesses on what help they need and where to get it.
• Funding the regional EnVision project which provides intensive support and assistance for businesses on resource efficiency
• Turning waste into a commodity by developing the market for recyclates, thereby providing business with an alternative means of disposal without incurring landfill tax. This will also help divert waste from landfill and work towards achieving the targets in the National Waste Strategy and the Regional Waste Strategy.
• Funding Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) to enable businesses to improve their practices working with Universities in the region.