Net Zero
We have a range of support available to help business, social enterprises and communities in the Highlands and Islands transition to net zero.
What is it?
HIE's Climate Springboard is a free six-week support programme being run for us by Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI).
It’s a straightforward, expert-led route to help you understand, plan, and act on climate change. You’ll finish the programme with:
- a compliant carbon footprint;
- a clear, achievable net zero action plan;
- a tailored to-do list of quick wins to lower emissions and costs;
- a resource pack containing step-by-step guides; and
- access to a growing network of over 275 organisations on similar journeys.
Who is eligible?
The programme is open to small and medium sized businesses, social enterprises, community organisations and charities in any sector from across the Highlands and Islands.
Ideally, to help baseline your carbon footprint, you will have been trading/operating for a year.
It’s suitable for both beginners and those already on their sustainability journey.
What's involved?
The programme runs in online groups, each offering around 8 -12 hours of guided support over six weeks. You’ll take part in:
- an onboarding call to get to know your organisation;
- three lively, online group workshops lasting 2.5 hours each, fortnightly;
- a ‘Springboard Session’ to finalise your plan with expert feedback; and
- optional follow-up calls to tackle specific challenges.
Programme schedule
Here are our future online cohort dates for your diary:
Cohort 5: Thursdays - 23 April; 14, 28 May; peer learning session TBC date in June
Cohort 6: Tuesdays - 26 May; 9, 23, 30 June
How to apply
Please complete our online form to apply to take part in our Climate Springboard.
Need to speak to us?
If you would like to talk to someone about your application, please email enquiries@hient.co.uk and we will get back to you.
Our climate springboarders
Find out what local businesses think about the programme.
Lussa Gin, Isle of Jura
Claire Fletcher, co-founder of Lussa Gin:
“One of the best things was that they focus on all the things you can do, rather than feeling overwhelmed by all the things that are out of your control. We now know what our carbon footprint is and have steps in place to mitigate it and we hope it’ll ensure the success of our business for the next ten years.”
Maclean’s Highland Bakery
Lewis Maclean, Maclean’s Highland Bakery:
“In just over a month, we now have a net zero plan in place that I know meets any mandatory requirements and, more importantly, reflects our values and goals. This would not have been achieved without these workshops and the one-to-one service.”
Jasmine Grant, Braehillor Croft, Dunbeath:
“Being part of the HIE Climate Springboard course has given me the confidence to complete and use my own carbon audit. The course presented all information in a clear, unambiguous manner and took a very practical approach to the challenges different types of business may have.”
Caledonia Hosiery
Steve Elton, Caledonia Hosiery:
"I would definitely recommend signing up to the HIE Climate Springboard.
After completing the course, the benefits are clear – saving on costs and enhancing reputation which could lead to funding opportunities and increased revenue through consumer confidence."
Glenurquhart Rural Community Association (GURCA)
Hear from GURCA's chair Susan Griffin on how Climate Springboard helped them, and how they are involving everyone in their community to develop their net zero action plan.
Related support
Check out the other support we have available
HIE Green Grant Fund
The Green Grant Fund is currently paused and is under review. The HIE Green Grant Fund provides up to £250,000 to businesses and social enterprises to support their journey to net zero.
Community and asset development
Increasing the role of communities in the ownership and management of land and assets
Browse all support services
We support businesses, communities and social enterprises through a range of services, including advice, funding, events and property. Find out how we can help you.
Feedback
Feedback