Over recent months, Dorset Chamber has been gathering insights from more than 140 local businesses, large and small, to understand their progress towards Net Zero.
The findings make for thought-provoking reading.
Encouragingly, half of Dorset businesses report a solid grasp of Net Zero targets. Three quarters have started planning their transition. Yet, despite this, almost two thirds still haven’t measured their carbon footprint – a figure unchanged from our first survey two years ago. Without stronger regulation or attractive incentives, it seems many businesses will struggle to move Net Zero higher up their list of priorities.
Free training
When it comes to the skills needed to deliver on Net Zero ambitions, the picture is mixed. Only around a third of businesses feel their teams currently have the knowledge required, with no improvement since 2023. Unsurprisingly, larger firms or those working directly in green sectors have a clearer understanding, often helped by hiring specialist expertise. But among most business leaders, there remains uncertainty about the specific skills needed.
Although specific training uptake remains low, a third of respondents said they would be interested in participating – particularly where funded opportunities are available. It’s heartening to see that local support does exist. Both BCP Council and Dorset Council offer free short courses and events to support Net Zero and ESG planning. In addition, Low Carbon Dorset provides free energy-saving advice alongside grant funding for emission reduction projects.
The education sector is also playing its part. Training on sustainability has already reached more than 100 tutors and education staff locally, helping embed green knowledge into mainstream courses. Meanwhile, Bournemouth and Poole College, alongside Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College, are now offering green skills training in construction and engineering, supported by the Local Skills Improvement Fund. April 2025 will see the opening of Bournemouth and Poole College’s new Green Skills Centre for Building Services, further strengthening the county’s green credentials.
On the financial side, half of businesses now feel more prepared to invest in reducing their carbon footprint – a small but important improvement. However, many smaller enterprises still feel they face a steeper challenge.
The momentum towards Net Zero is evident, but it’s clear that more support, clear guidance and sustained investment will be needed if Dorset’s business community is to deliver real change.
by Ian Girling
To explore the full survey findings and the support available, visit: dorsetchamber.co.uk/lsip/findings.
