What SMEs told the Carbon Charter about sustainability: Motivation is high, but support still matters
Small and medium-sized businesses are increasingly aware that environmental sustainability is no longer a “nice to have”. It is becoming part of how organisations manage costs, meet customer expectations, protect their reputation and prepare for future procurement requirements.
Recent responses to the Carbon Charter’s survey of local businesses show a strong appetite for action. Most respondents said they were likely or very likely to take further sustainability action in the next year, with many already monitoring energy use, reducing waste, training staff or measuring carbon emissions.
The main drivers were practical as well as environmental. Cost savings from energy and waste came through strongly, alongside environmental impact, legal compliance, reputation, customer expectations and staff values. This reflects a wider national picture. The British Business Bank’s 2025 SMEs and Net Zero report highlights that smaller businesses have a critical role in the UK’s transition to net zero, while the UK Net Zero Business Census shows growing business interest in climate action.
However, the survey also shows that willingness does not always translate easily into action. Cost and budget constraints were by far the most common barrier, followed by lack of knowledge or internal expertise, lack of time, and uncertainty about where to start. For many smaller organisations, sustainability is only one part of a busy role, rather than a dedicated job.
That is where practical support can make a real difference. Respondents said they would value help with carbon footprint measurement, general carbon management, strategic advice, accreditation, networking and support with reporting requirements.
The message is clear: many SMEs want to do more, but they need support that is simple, credible and proportionate. The Carbon Charter helps businesses understand where they are now, identify achievable next steps and demonstrate progress with confidence. Learn more: https://carboncharter.org/about-the-carbon-charter/
Delivered by Groundwork East and overseen by the Environment Agency and Suffolk County Council, the Carbon Charter provides guidance, support, and recognition to small and medium businesses throughout Suffolk and Norfolk as they take positive action towards business efficiency.
Sources:
Carbon Charter SME survey responses, 2026.
British Business Bank, SMEs and Net Zero Report 2025.
UK Business Climate Hub, UK Net Zero Business Census 2025.