Low Carbon Kent business network

Kent County Council works with businesses in Kent to support them to cut their costs, reduce their carbon footprint and take advantage of opportunities in the low carbon market. Support is delivered through the Low Carbon Kent business network.

The low carbon market includes businesses who have green products or who are operating in an environmentally sound manner. A recent study estimated that the market contributes £1 billion to the Kent economy, employing between 17,000 and 25,000 people. The network aims to bring these businesses together across Kent, supporting them to grow, creating jobs and increasing the economy of Kent.

The network is currently being funded by the European Union and is free to join.

Benefits of membership

As a member, you will be encouraged to measure your carbon footprint annually and take action to reduce it. You will also receive information on the latest research and relevant events. You will be able to access our services, including:

• Understand your contribution to climate change and cut costs by cutting carbon through carbon management.
• Start implementing a robust environmental management system for your business and receive a certificate to demonstrate your work through the Steps To Environmental Management (STEM) scheme.
• Search for suppliers of low carbon services and technologies or register your business on the Low Carbon Kent website directory.
• Find out about environmental awards that may be relevant to your business.
• Learn about ways reduce fuel costs with advice on flexi-working, tele-conferencing and travel plans through smarter working.
• Gain information on other free services offered throughout Kent – depending on your needs, we will try link you up with free services that we know about, for example:
  • Zero percent interest loans for businesses in Canterbury, Dover, Shepway and Thanet through the Expansion East Kent fund.
  • Zero percent interest loans for businesses in Dartford, Gravesham, Medway, Swale and Thurrock through the TIGER fund.
  • Tailored 1 to 1 business support for low carbon businesses through the Fusion project.

Who can join

Any business with a vested interest in Kent can become a member of the Low Carbon Kent business network. However, free sustainable business support is only available to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) i.e. businesses with 250 employees or less and either a turnover of £44 million or less or a balance sheet of less than £39 million. If another business owns more than quarter of your business, they too must meet these criteria.

Joining the network

You can register today by completing our online form at the Low Carbon Kent website.
 

The Low Carbon Kent business network is funded by Interreg IVA 2 Seas Programme (part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund).

If you would like more information on the services provided by the Sustainable Business Team please call on 0300 333 5011 or send an email to lowcarbon@kent.gov.uk.