UK SMEs are driving net zero ambition, finds Novuna

Small businesses across the UK are proving themselves central to the country’s sustainability journey, taking practical steps to reduce emissions and support the government’s net zero targets.

According to government figures, 94% of UK SMEs are already taking at least one action to cut carbon emissions – from reducing energy use to adopting new sustainable practices. Insights gathered by Novuna Business Finance over the past 18 months echo this trend, showing how firms across manufacturing, engineering, retail, agriculture and construction are embedding sustainability into their operations while aligning with wider decarbonisation ambitions.

The findings are explored in the latest Novuna Sustainable Business Podcast, now in its eighth series, alongside a new insight report 10 tips on sustainable business success. Across three episodes, experts from Novuna Business Finance share their own professional journeys toward sustainability and the lessons they have learned from SMEs taking bold action.

• Episode one: Jo Morris, Head of Insight, explains how sustainability looks different for every business but common themes emerge, from listening to customer values to influencing supply chains. She highlights Grey Flannel, Emerald Life, Sea Change and OXIL as examples of how SMEs are embedding sustainability across culture, operations and community impact.
• Episode two: Chris Powell, Head of Sales, discusses how finance enables sustainability, spotlighting Libra Utility Services and Electric Classic Cars as proof that investment in innovation can cut emissions while driving growth.
• Episode three: Sabrina Ahmed, Communications Manager, shares practical lessons from SMEs like Cardiff’s health food shop Iechyd Da, textiles retailer The Remnant Revolution, and Cambridge Building Services, showing how small changes and resilience in the face of challenges can lead to lasting impact.

These discussions form the backbone of Novuna’s new report, which offers practical advice and insights for SMEs looking to make sustainability part of their growth strategy.

Jo Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance, said: “Listening to SMEs over the last 18 months has shown me that sustainability is not about perfection—it’s about creativity, commitment, and practical action.

“These businesses are leading by example, and their efforts demonstrate that sustainable growth and commercial success go hand in hand.

“At Novuna, our aim is to listen and find workable solutions to help small businesses take achievable steps, celebrate progress and give businesses the confidence to act and keep building from there. Every action, no matter how small, has the potential to inspire others and contribute to a greener, more resilient future.”