Partner Network
BISNES (Business in Sandwell Network of Environmental Support)
This long running initiative helps businesses in the Sandwell area of the Black Country to improve environmental performance. The group is very well supported by the local business community with events reguarly attracting over 50 delegates. A key offer to businesses is the "Environment Charter". This free scheme assesses business environmental performance against set criteria to award bronze - platinum status. Many businesses find this an excellent method to kick start their environmental programme. Members are also able to access a thermal image of their site to identify efficiency issues and have access to knowledgeable and friendly help and support.
For more details contact Julie Coxon 0121 569 6603
SBEN (Staffordshire Business and Environment Network)
This membership organisation offers environmental training and events to businesses based in Staffordshire. The network's programme of events is established through a committee of local businesses to ensure topics are always relevant to business needs. The group offers a very low membership fee following a "try before you buy" period for new members. Members can also access a free "Healthcheck" to identify potential areas for cost savings through environmental improvements and have access to a free helpline that puts them in touch with other members. Alongside training and information seminars members are also able to attend "envirovists". These events allow members to visit the premises of other businesses to see and share best environmental practice.
For more details contact Dave Hallam 0845 607 5310
BESST (Business Environmental Support Scheme for Telford)
This group is a partnership between private and public sector businesses. Its role is to assist businesses to improve their environmental performance, in order to boost competitiveness and reduce impact on the environment.
The group has over 80 members and organises events and visits throughout the year.
For more details contact Scott Charlton 01952 567 567
Business Link offers a wide range of services to established and new businesses across the West Midlands. The Improve your Resource Efficiency programme is of most significance to businesses looking at their environmental performance. Through the project Business Link offer a free Improve Your Resource Efficiency Diagnostic. This report is provided by a specialist consultant and identifies potential cost savings that could be realised through resource efficiency improvements.
Business Link is also able to offer grants of up to 50% towards consultant costs to implement resource efficiency improvements.
For further details contact David Terry or John Barraclough on 0845 113 1234
BITC is committed to supporting businesses to address key environmental issues such as climate change and resource efficiency. The organisation does this through a number of programmes designed to inform and engage with businesses:
The Mayday Network comprises over 1,600 UK wide businesses that have made a pledge to reduce their carbon emmissions. The network organises regular events to share best practice and holds an annual summit on May 1st hosted by HRH the Prince of Wales.
The C+ Carbon Positive Award was established in 2009 to recognise steps being taken by West Midlands Businesses to address the issues of climate change.
For further details contact Steve Fitzgerald 0121 451 2227
SWM is a not-for profit company that works with its members who are leading individuals and organisations in the business, public, and voluntary sectors.
The organisational vision is of businesses and communities thriving in a future region that is environmentally sustainable and socially just.
SWM acts as a catalyst for change through providing advice to leaders, developing practical solutions with members, and sharing success through communications.
The Think Walsall team is working with businesses and partners to promote supply chain and employment opportunities from regeneration and procurement going on within the borough.
Their primary aim is to support Walsall based businesses and third sector organisations to link into major developers, public sector procurers and b2b opportunities. One avenue supported is Meet the Buyer events for Walsall based organisations.
Email: thinkwalsall@walsall.gov.uk
Telephone: 01922 65 32 46
