Strengthening the performance of your business in the ways outlined here is really just a matter of common sense. But if you are committed to achieving major business benefits in this way, then help is available.

National Help
Action Energy helps businesses save money through energy saving. A starter pack is available. Call 0800 585794 or see www.actionenergy.org.uk.

The Envirowise Programme helps thousands of businesses across the UK improve profits. It has published more than 350 publications and runs around 200 events per year. They offer free consultancy service to SMEs. Call 0800 585794 or see www.envirowise.gov.uk.

The Big Splash campaign, an initiative of Envirowise, offers free advice and support to encourage UK companies to reduce water consumption. See www.envirowise.gov.uk/envirowisev3

Climate Care offers businesses and individuals the opportunity to purchase carbon offsets.  See www.climatecare.org

The Federation of Small Business in Scotland produces an Energy and Environment Toolkit for small businesses. See www.fsb.org.uk/scotland or call 0141 221 0775.

Business Link provides practical and easy to use information and support for SMEs on a wide range of issues including resource management.  www.businesslink.gov.uk

The NetRegs website is free to use and is regularly updated. Its aim is to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK to understand the complex environmental regulations that can affect them. The site provides guidance on how to comply with environmental law as well as advice on good environmental practice. www.netregs.gov.uk

Local Help
All UK regions have consultancies specialising in energy management. Your Business Link or local Chamber of Commerce can help or you can try the phone book. Some of the national energy conservation organisations have regional contacts.

The Energy Saving Trust promotes the efficient use of energy in the UK by domestic companies and small businesses. EST has set up over 30 Energy Efficiency Advice Centres around the country, to give free advice and information. Find your nearest one by calling 0800 512012.

Online Help
CREATE is a not for profit organisation working to reduce the effects of climate change. It offers training and advice on energy efficiency, water conservation and waste minimisation. www.create.org.uk.

The Energy Saving Trust website has links to energy companies, government departments and has advice specifically tailored for small and medium-sized organisations. Grants are available for installing green energy equipment. www.est.org.uk.

Reduce the Use offers a range of information on environmental issues for small business. www.reducetheuse.co.uk.