A sustainability expert is continuing to encourage firms in Chesterfield to prioritise sustainability, following the recent COP 28 climate summit.

The message comes as Chesterfield Borough Council also reiterates its commitment to its climate strategy, which aims to create a carbon-neutral borough by 2050.

Emma Knight-Strong, Founder of Chesterfield Champion, Green Arch Consulting, advises firms of all sizes on how to cut their emissions, whilst growing their organisations in the process.

Following the summit, which took place in Dubai, Emma has given her thoughts on the event: “There has been a lot of negativity surrounding COP28 but it’s important to look at some of the broader messaging around the conference – both from the conference itself but also from the wider business, finance, reporting and NGO communities.

“It is clear that these annual conferences lead to increased scrutiny on environmental practices, irrespective of any potential policy changes. Moving forward, companies should anticipate a heightened focus on sustainability, potential regulatory shifts, and the need to align with evolving climate goals. Adapting to emerging sustainability standards and fostering eco-friendly practices can enhance your business’s resilience and reputation, making it logical to ensure that you incorporate sustainable strategies into your business operations.

“Prioritising sustainability is crucial for businesses for several reasons. Firstly, it addresses growing environmental concerns, fostering a positive corporate image and meeting stakeholder expectations. Secondly, sustainable practices often lead to operational efficiency and cost savings in the long run.

“Thirdly, as global regulations evolve, businesses adhering to sustainable principles are better positioned to comply with changing standards. Finally, consumer preferences are increasingly shifting towards eco-friendly products and services, making sustainability a strategic advantage in the market. In summary, integrating sustainability is essential for reputation, efficiency, regulatory compliance, and staying competitive in the evolving business landscape.”

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the summit, Chesterfield Borough Council has been reflecting on how its climate strategy supports both national and international commitments.

The council declared a climate emergency in 2019, and since then the organisation’s emissions have fallen by 36 per cent – driven by actions such as switching to renewable energy, using greener vehicles, making council homes and buildings more energy efficient and changing the way green spaces are managed.

Councillor Martin Stone, cabinet member for climate change, planning and environment, said: “COP 28 is an important step to tackling climate change on an international level but it is important to understand how action taken at the local level here in Chesterfield contributes to global change. One of the key commitments at COP 28 was to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems – this is something the council has been working towards, with the switch to renewable electricity supplies and using new technologies like heat pumps in new build council properties.

“Historically the UK is one of the worlds leading emitters and we should lead by example, it is vital that councils like ours take the steps necessary to reduce emissions and contribute to meeting our national targets.”

The council’s refreshed climate change strategy (2023 to 2030) which focusses on key areas which have the biggest impact on carbon emissions, including building use, transport and energy – and builds on the achievements of the previous strategy which was adopted in 2019.

Find out more information about the council’s work to tackle climate change on the council’s website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/health-and-environment/weather-and-climate-change/climate-change

Green Arch Consulting and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.