Island businesses are being urged to pledge their support for the environment as part of a newly launched accreditation scheme. Green Impact helps businesses to reduce their environmental impact whilst also attracting customers and increasing their profits. The Isle of Wight is the first island to take part in the national scheme, supported by Island businesses and the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce.
“We want Island businesses to look at the actions they can take and sign up for the toolkit,” says Green Impact’s Island champion Julie Jones-Evans. “There’s a broad spectrum for any business to qualify for a Gold award. There’s no barrier to entry – the scheme is free for Island businesses for two years, thanks to generous funding from our supporting Chamber members. Lots of Island businesses are already doing great things and Green Impact is designed to bring all of this activity into focus. It also links to the Economic Strategy and the Chamber’s 2030 Vision.”
The Island’s entry into Green Impact was launched by Julie at the IW Council’s recent Environmental Conference at Cowes Yacht Haven. Green Impact has been running in parts of the UK for 11 years, run by the National Union of Students. Michelle Farrell from the NUS also spoke at the launch.
“With the Island’s pre-existing networks between businesses it makes it a perfect place to run Green Impact. Students will act as auditors and will be trained to go into businesses. All IW College students will be given the opportunity. It’s a great way of learning transferable skills that will boost their CVs. Green Impact is great for businesses, young people and the environment.”
Find out more or sign up at http://www.greenimpact.org.uk/iw
