Local businesses looking to go greener – and save money in the process – are being invited to a special networking morning next month.
The Green Business Networking event, hosted by East Staffordshire Borough Council in partnership with the Staffordshire Business and Environmental Network (SBEN), is back for another year as part of Great Big Green Week 2025.
The event, which is taking place at the Brewhouse Arts Centre in Burton upon Trent on Wednesday, 11 June, from 9.30am to 12.30pm, is open to all local businesses, no matter how far along they are on their sustainability journey.
As well as the chance to connect with like-minded businesses and environmental experts, attendees will hear from a line-up of speakers offering practical guidance on reducing costs while enhancing their environmental credentials.
Tom Bedford from Globe Group will speak on the topic of green skills, a representative from SBEN will outline the Green Solutions support programme, and Andy McKeown will share the story of Norman’s Musical Instruments and its ReTune instrument recycling initiative.
Councillor Dennis Fletcher, cabinet member for environment and climate change, said: “As we confront climate change, supporting local businesses in adopting sustainable practices is essential. This networking event offers local businesses a chance to connect, learn, and gain practical support.
“The council aims to help businesses reduce their environmental impact while enjoying cost savings and competitive advantages. Following last year’s success, we look forward to an even better programme this year.”
Councillor Paul Walker, cabinet member for tourism and cultural development, added: “The Green Business Networking event aligns with our vision for a sustainable East Staffordshire. By uniting local businesses, sustainability experts, and support organisations, we’re fostering collaboration to meet sustainability challenges.
“This event highlights the importance of green credentials for business success in a changing economy. I encourage all local businesses to join us for an informative and inspiring morning.”
A new addition for 2025 is a facilitated networking session designed to help businesses facing similar sustainability challenges link up and share ideas.
TMT First’s Adam Whitehouse, Chairperson at SBEN, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with East Staffordshire Borough Council again for this important event. The Green Solutions Scheme continues to provide vital support to local businesses through free energy assessments, grants, and carbon literacy training. This networking event is an excellent opportunity for businesses to learn how they can access this support.”
The networking event is just one of a series of sustainability-themed events happening across the borough for Great Big Green Week, which runs from 7 to 15 June.
Another highlight is the Climate Policy Impact Simulator workshop, taking place at Burton Town Hall on Thursday, 12 June. Delivered by Globe Group CIC and led by regenerative change expert Rebecca Craske, the session will use the internationally recognised En-ROADS simulation tool to explore the impacts of different climate policies.
The Green Business Networking event is free, but booking is essential via green-business-networking.eventbrite.co.uk For more information on all the events taking place during the week, visit: discovereaststaffordshire.com/green-week.
