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About the programme

Climate Springboard is a free business support programme, designed to equip SMEs in Scotland with the knowledge and tools to start out on their journey to net zero.  

The course is delivered by Edinburgh Climate Change Institute, part of the University of Edinburgh. We regularly update the content to reflect the latest science and policy, as well as feedback from businesses we work with.

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Not your usual net-zero package
  • We focus on action
  • We make it easy to understand - no climate jargon
  • Our training is interactive. You'll be speaking to other businesses in every workshop and learning from their experiences
  • Our amazing facilitators Mhairi and Izi have supported hundreds of businesses reduce their carbon emissions
  • We constantly update our training to reflect the latest research and policy changes

What will it cover?

Each workshop is two hours long and is held on Microsoft Teams

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Workshop 1
  • Climate change basics 
  • Net zero, Scotland’s emissions and where SMEs fit into the picture 
  • Finding your energy and fleet data
  • How to calculate a compliant carbon footprint

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Workshop 2
  • Boundaries, emissions scopes and deciding where to start 
  • Where to find your indirect emissions data
  • Setting net-zero targets
  • Options for getting ‘certified’ 
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Workshop 3
  • Your net-zero action plan
  • Reducing emissions: energy, vehicles, waste, business travel and purchases
  • Telling your climate story to stakeholders and the public 

FAQs

How much does it cost to attend?

Nothing - this is a free service.

What is the time commitment?

The three core workshops last two hours each and are spread two weeks apart.

We know how busy SMEs are, so we have designed the programme to make the best possible use of your time.

You can also arrange one-to-one calls with our team at a time to suit you.

Who can join?

Small- and medium-sized businesses or charities, in any sector. You must be trading and based in Scotland.

We have worked with everyone from jewellery makers and crofters to lawyers and offshore construction firms! 

Who created the programme?

The programme has been designed by Edinburgh Climate Change Institute.

ECCI is Scotland’s leading climate hub, renowned for translating low carbon research into social, environmental, and economic progress. We are part of the University of Edinburgh — ranked 15th in the world and 3rd in the UK for sustainability.

We regularly update the content to reflect the latest science and policy, as well as feedback from businesses we work with.

Meet the team behind Climate Springboard on our Contact page.

Can third sector organisations attend?

Yes.

We welcome any small- or medium-sized organisation based in Scotland, whether you are a charity or private business.

How are you funded?

Our work is funded through partnerships with a consortium of private and public sector organisations. This is currently:

  • NatWest Group
  • Verture
  • Scottish Gas Networks