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Join the small business community in tackling climate change

The time to take action is now. Start your journey to net zero emissions today.

Why does this matter?

According to the UN, if global warming continues at its current rate, we will see irreversible damage by 2030. By taking action today, we begin the important process of rebuilding our planet for future generations. We only get one earth, let’s commit to her future.

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How can your business make a difference?

Small businesses represent 90% of businesses globally and have a critical role to play in combating the negative impacts of climate change. Between supply chains, packaging, shipping, and the energy it takes to keep the lights on or equipment running, your small business can leave quite a mark on the environment.

Steps you can take right now

Going green doesn’t happen overnight, but there are a few steps you can take to start heading in the right direction.

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Adjust packaging and shipping

Rethink the way you package your products. Opt for recyclable or reusable packaging when possible. Use the correct size of packaging to avoid excess waste and reduce shipping costs

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Switch to LED bulbs

Cut your carbon footprint and your electricity bills by switching to energy efficient lighting like LED bulbs and dimmable fixtures. Turn the lights off when not in use or use automatic sensors, and take advantage of natural light whenever possible.

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Minimize waste

It’s time to put that recycle bin to work. From packaging to office supplies, look for smart ways to reduce waste and reuse materials. Minimize paper waste by switching to digital systems and records. And don’t forget to recycle your empty ink cartridges.

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Optimize building space

Implement low-carbon cooling, heating, and ventilation for all building sites. Develop good thermostat habits by adjusting the office temperature with the seasons and overnight when workers aren’t present. If possible, enable employees to work from home to further reduce emissions and costs.

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Invest in carbon offsets

Carbon offsets fund projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You can negate your carbon emissions by investing in carbon offsets. Depending on where you purchase your offsets, they may be tax-deductible.

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Change the way you travel

Encourage employees to cycle to work or carpool when possible. Build your fleet using electric or fuel-efficient vehicles. And take public transportation when you can. When flying, pack light and avoid connecting flights.

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Use renewable energy

Generate your own renewable energy by installing solar panels on your building. Solar panels have an up-front cost, and it may take some time to recoup — but you can make money by selling the excess electricity you produce.

Good for your business, good for the earth

Climate change poses a real risk to small business cash flow and growth by increasing operating costs, limiting resources, causing shifts in demand, disrupting supply chains, and even forcing business closures. However, businesses that seek to improve themselves, their community, and the planet gain a competitive edge by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and building a strong reputation.

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5.6x

Sales of sustainability-marketed products grew 5.6x faster than conventionally-marketed products from 2013-2018.

81%

81% of consumers indicate trusting brands to “do what is right” is a top buying criteria.

73%

73% of consumers are willing to change their consumption habits to lessen their negative impact on the environment.

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Commit today to future-proof your business

Sign the SME Climate Commitment to take the first step. Browse tools and resources tailored to support your efforts. And get recognized by the United Nations Race to Zero campaign.

Small  businesses are at the heart of the global economy and have a clear, tangible impact on the environment. Through QuickBooks and our partnership with the SME Climate Hub, Intuit is uniquely positioned to identify and remove the barriers that may prevent these businesses from investing in climate-positive business solutions and invite them to participate in saving the planet while growing their businesses.”

Sean Kinghorn

Sean Kinghorn

Global Sustainability Leader at Intuit

Climate change is bigger than all of us, and it is critical we all play a part in positively impacting climate change. At Intuit, we’re committed to empowering the small businesses we work with to join us in our efforts to be climate-positive. We applaud the UK Government for leading on this important issue and look forward to working together to build a greener and more sustainable world.

Sasan Goodarzi

Sasan Goodarzi

CEO of Intuit

Climate change is one of the biggest problems of our lifetime. It affects all living beings on the planet. If we are going to solve it we must work together to push the boundaries of what is possible. At Intuit, our mission is powering prosperity around the world and it’s directly linked to the health of our planet.”

Lara Balazs

Lara Balazs

CMO at Intuit

More resources

Learn more about how Intuit is leading the charge in climate-positivity

At Intuit, we’ve committed to being climate-positive, not just by taking care of our own operational footprint, but also by empowering employees, consumers, small businesses, and others to reduce their footprint, too.

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