Food and drink businesses offered new help with net zero planning

24th February 2025

Photograph of Food and drink businesses offered new help with net zero planning

Highland based food and drink producers have until 28 March to enquire about a new support programme aimed at helping businesses in the sector to cut carbon emissions.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is looking for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to take part in the food and drink TechHUB Net Zero Mobilisation programme.

The programme is part of the Northern Innovation Hub (NIH), a £14.2m initiative delivered by HIE under the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal.

It's open to food and drink producers and companies operating in the supply chain, such as packaging and logistics.

Keith Masson, HIE's head of net zero transition, says it will help businesses to cut costs, improve efficiency and win more business. He added:

"If you're a food and drink producer or work in the supply chain and looking to get started on the net zero journey, this could be right up your street.

"By adopting sustainable practices, which are often low cost or free, SMEs can lower environmental impacts, enhance productivity, and create a leaner, more agile business.

"As larger client organisations ramp up their sustainability commitments, SMEs working towards net zero can be much better placed to secure lucrative contracts. Consumers too are increasingly voting with their wallets, favouring businesses that align with their values."

The TechHUB net zero mobilisation programme will help businesses develop knowledge around climate change and the impacts of their own operations. It will cover benchmarking emissions, action planning and identifying sources of support.

 

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