A major sustainability initiative led by InvestSefton and environmental experts Groundwork, has helped dozens of local businesses cut costs and take vital steps toward a greener future.

Launched in February 2024 and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Sustainable Sefton Programme has supported 71 Sefton-based businesses with expert sustainability advice. Of those, 60 businesses received in-depth sustainability audits and bespoke action plans tailored to their operations.

These action plans are already helping businesses reduce energy costs, attract environmentally conscious customers, and contribute to the Liverpool City Region’s ambitious Net Zero 2040 target.

Empowering Local Businesses

As part of the programme, InvestSefton hosted a series of engagement events to raise awareness and offer free support to attendees. The events proved instrumental in connecting businesses with the tools and knowledge needed to make meaningful environmental changes.

Although the initial phase of the project has now concluded, Groundwork is continuing to offer further support. This includes access to the IEMA Pathways to Net Zero accredited course and a sustainable business membership scheme to help businesses continue their green journey.

Council and Partner Reflections

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, praised the initiative:

“We have learned some valuable lessons from this work and I thank both InvestSefton and Groundwork for taking the lead and getting so many businesses on board with the sustainability agenda. Businesses will start to see the value of this work including reductions in energy costs and their carbon footprint, plus many more acknowledge the important role sustainability plays in supporting their potential future growth.”

Greville Kelly, Director at Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside, added:

“Through the Sustainable Sefton programme, Groundwork has been supporting a number of local businesses on their sustainability and Net Zero journey. Most businesses we engaged had great sustainability ideas and simply needed some time and guidance to make their ideas into tangible plans.”

A Greener Future for Sefton

The Sustainable Sefton Programme is a key part of the borough’s wider commitment to economic resilience and environmental responsibility. With continued support from partners like Groundwork, Sefton businesses are well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable growth.