Green Shoots at Lands' End

Thirty per cent of Cornish businesses plan to generate their own energy in future, with wind and solar power being the more popular options, according to research by PFA Research and Enterprise Edge. The county, home to the Eden Project, aims to be a leader on environmental issues.

The South West Business Pulse survey questioned 200 Cornish businesses by telephone about their attitudes, policies and procedures on key environmental issues, including energy efficiency, micro-generation and renewable energy.

Cornwall has the lowest carbon emissions in the South West of England and PFA's MD Robert Rush says the results 'clearly show that the environment is important for Cornish businesses'. However, while 89% feel concerned about environmental issues, a third of businesses (34%) still said they have made no commitment to use energy efficiently and 37% say the use of energy is left to individuals within their organisation. Rush points to local initiatives including 'Surfers Against Sewage', as well as the giant domed conservatories of the Eden Project, as evidence of commitment to the cause: 'I think we have the people in Cornwall who can make an impact'. Eighty per cent of those surveyed supported the statement that 'Cornwall should look to establish itself as a region of excellence leading the way in renewable energy'.

The two firms, online at www.pfa-research.com and www.enterprise-edge.co.uk , will follow the report by launching a series of surveys covering transport and the environment, waste management and other areas.

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.