Supporting SMEs to Net-Zero Through Innovative Digital Technology

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To enable the global warming target in the Paris Agreement to be met, global carbon emissions should reach net-zero around mid-century. If the UK is to deliver its 2050 net-zero target, smaller companies across the UK in the near future will need to identify their carbon emissions, plan to reduce these, and ensure that the plans are being implemented. Although many smaller companies are very enthusiastic about reducing emissions and moving to net-zero, they lack the knowledge and skills to proceed. This is creating a major block, and is a real concern. At present their only option are expensive consultants who often don't build capacity and capability within the small companies, or employing a specialist which is beyond the reach of many smaller companies. This is becoming a concern to larger UK companies and public sector procurers, as most of their emissions are within their supply chains. They will not be able to deliver their own carbon reduction and net-zero plans without their supply chains also planning for net-zero.This project will develop and bring to market a web-based Learning Management System, called the Zero-Carbon-Accelerator, that will enable small companies to develop knowledge and skills in-house to develop their own carbon reduction plan and management system, meeting the requirements of PAS 2060\. They will then be independently audited to validate the implementation of the carbon reduction plan. The app will enable better understanding within smaller companies, allow us to scale up and support significantly more companies, and greatly reduce the cost burden for smaller companies.The online tool is highly innovative, being a knowledge hub, Learning Management System and process development tool. It will comprise of 4 core modules taking users through a journey of understanding underlying issues, mapping company processes and carbon sources, measuring, quantifying and validating emission sources, and then developing an effective Carbon Reduction Plan. The e-app tool will comprise of structured learning, on-line exercises developing skills and documentation, video and animations, webinars and live Q&A sessions. The output will be a fully functional carbon reduction plan and supporting system to implement and manage it. This process will be mapped against PAS 2060\. Finally, we will audit the company against PAS 2060 to determine compliance and provide assurance that the carbon reduction plan is effective and being implemented, and the company will be certified against PAS 2060\.