Cheshire West and Chester Council is allocating £70,000 to support businesses in reaching Net Zero.

The funds, sourced from the council's UK Shared Prosperity Fund, will back Groundwork, an environmental charity, in its mission to assist employers.

The initiative is part of Groundwork's Low Carbon Capacity Building Programme, which aims to help businesses understand and implement low-carbon practices.

The council recognises that many employers are eager to become energy efficient, reduce waste, and boost productivity.

However, not all possess the necessary knowledge or resources to achieve this.

The programme will empower employers to carry out low-carbon audits and formulate action plans to curb future carbon emissions.

The council suggests that this could also enhance the financial stability of businesses by increasing their chances of winning public sector procurement opportunities, which require proof of net-zero efforts.

The programme supports the council's "Greener Communities" theme and Climate Emergency Action Plan by assisting 30 businesses in developing and implementing effective net-zero strategies.

Councillor Nathan Pardoe, cabinet member for inclusive economy, regeneration, and digital transformation, said: "Cheshire West and Chester Council are pleased to be able to support Groundwork with this project to provide advice and guidance to employers looking to adapt and adopt their working practices to become more energy efficient.

"It is really encouraging to see so many of our local businesses, from a variety of sectors, embracing net zero.

"Businesses are keen to develop their own skills, company plans and strategies.

"Initiatives like this will help Cheshire West become a more environmentally sustainable place to work."

Greville Kelly, director of business sustainability at Groundwork, said: "We are excited to be working with so many local companies to help businesses put practical actions in place around net-zero.

"There are a host of benefits for companies implementing low carbon plans including cost savings from energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, an enhanced corporate image to secure more business, reduced business risks and stronger employee retention related to the wish of many employees who are keen to work for companies with a positive plan of action about the environment and sustainability.”