Carbon Footprint Basics for Small Shops
Carbon footprint is a term you hear more and more in the news, but what does it actually mean for small businesses like yours? For restaurants, bakeries, takeaways, and butchers, understanding your carbon footprint doesn’t need to be complicated. Put simply, it’s the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases your business creates as part of daily operations. This includes the energy you use, the fuel in delivery vans, and even the packaging you throw away. By learning the basics, you can take simple steps to cut waste, save money, and show your customers you care about the environment.
What Is a Carbon Footprint?
Your carbon footprint is measured in tonnes of CO₂ (carbon dioxide) equivalent. It adds up all the greenhouse gases your business produces directly and indirectly. Direct emissions are things you burn yourself, like gas for cooking or petrol for a van. Indirect emissions are created elsewhere, such as at the power station that produces your electricity. Both types matter, because together they give a true picture of the impact your business has on the environment.
Why It Matters for Small Businesses
Customers are increasingly choosing businesses that show they care about sustainability. Many people want to know where their food comes from and how it is produced. Being able to say your shop is reducing its carbon footprint is good for the planet and good for your reputation. It also makes financial sense. Lower emissions often come from using less energy, which means lower bills. Cutting waste, using equipment more efficiently, and reducing deliveries all save money as well as emissions.
How to Measure Your Carbon Footprint
- Look at energy use: Check your electricity and gas bills. The more you use, the bigger your footprint.
- Check fuel use: If you have a van or car for the business, include the miles you drive and the fuel you buy.
- Think about waste: Packaging, food waste, and plastics all add to your footprint when they are produced and disposed of.
- Include suppliers: Even the goods you buy have a footprint, because they were grown, made, and transported to you.
Simple Ways to Cut Your Carbon Footprint
- Switch to renewable electricity: A simple change that makes a big difference.
- Upgrade equipment: Newer ovens, fridges, and freezers use less energy.
- Reduce waste: Plan stock carefully to avoid throwing away unsold food.
- Change lighting: LED bulbs last longer and use much less power.
- Smarter deliveries: Combine trips or use local suppliers to reduce transport emissions.
Talking About Your Carbon Footprint
Being open about your footprint shows responsibility and builds trust. You don’t need a big report or complicated calculations. Simply saying that you are reducing waste, cutting energy use, or switching to green electricity sends a positive message. Displaying a small sign in your window or sharing updates on social media can show your community you are making an effort. Customers appreciate honesty and small steps just as much as big ones.
How Business Energy Solutions Supports You
We help by checking your current energy contracts and advising on greener options. We also share practical advice for reducing your footprint without extra cost. Our goal is to make sustainability simple for small businesses, so you can take part in protecting the planet while also protecting your bottom line.
Learn More
This guide is part of our Green Energy Options section. You can also read Choosing Renewable Electricity to understand your tariff options, and Affordable Steps Toward Sustainability for practical changes. For other useful advice, see our Energy Saving Tips section.
If you’d like help reducing your carbon footprint today, start with a free review of your contracts: Check Your Contracts.