Tag: zero

Essential FREE guide to net zero for SMEs

A reader views the cover of our recent eBook on their tablet device.

Climate change, rising energy costs, tighter supply chains and new sustainability standards are making net zero more than just a “nice to have” – for many smaller businesses, it’s becoming essential.

That’s why we’ve launched our new guide, Net zero for SMEs, created by CEME to help small and medium-sized enterprises understand what becoming greener means in practice, and how to take simple, effective steps to get there.

SMEs are the backbone of the UK economy and they have a crucial role to play in the transition to a low-carbon future. But they also face unique challenges – from limited time and resources to balancing sustainability goals with day-to-day operations.

Our free guide offers practical, straightforward advice to help SMEs cut emissions, reduce energy costs and build more resilient, future-ready businesses.

The guide explores:

  • Why net zero matters for smaller businesses and how it drives competitiveness and growth.
  • How to measure and manage emissions, including tips and free tools for energy and carbon tracking.
  • Practical steps such as improving energy efficiency, switching to renewables, reducing waste and engaging suppliers.
  • Funding and support available to UK SMEs from government and industry programmes.
  • CEME’s own sustainability journey, including the installation of solar panels on our main campus and the creation of our Green Tech Hub.

At CEME, we’re committed to becoming a greener, more sustainable innovation campus. We’re reducing our energy use, expanding renewable generation and enhancing biodiversity across our site.

CEME CEO Noorzaman Rashid said: “At CEME, we see first-hand the drive, ambition and innovation that small and medium-sized enterprises bring to the economy. These businesses are the engine of growth in the UK – and they have a crucial role to play in the transition to a greener future.

“Net zero isn’t just a target for governments and large corporations. It matters to SMEs because the world is shifting fast… Net zero matters because the future of business depends on it. For SMEs, the time to act is now – and we’re here to help.”

Working in collaboration

The CEME and NOCN Group logos super imposed over a group of people putting their hands together in a teamwork pose.

CEME is proud to announce a landmark partnership with NOCN Group, one of the UK’s leading skills and education charities. 

This strategic partnership marks a powerful alignment of purpose – to equip individuals, businesses and communities with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving, green-driven economy.

This partnership opens doors to:

  • Tailored training programmes aligned with real-world employer needs
  • Access to NOCN-accredited qualifications and apprenticeships 
  • Collaborative innovation projects in green tech and sustainable infrastructure 
  • Networking with national thought leaders and industry pioneers
  • A stronger voice in shaping the UK’s skills system for a net zero future.

NOCN is also the headline sponsor for CEME’s forthcoming Hydrogen Summit 2025!

Nicola Hollands, CEME Head of Partnerships, Skills and Training, said: “This partnership brings significant value to CEME and our local community of micro, small and medium sized enterprises in specific area of skills development, green technology and sustainable growth.”