Green Business Podcast (Green Business Programme)

In this episode we speak to Jonathan Howl, Business Advisor at the Coventry and Warwickshire Green Business Programme about who is eligible for the programme and how you can get a free energy audit, and a grant that could help local SMEs lower the price of energy bills. 

In the second part we speak to Karl Haggett, Associate Director of Alchemie – a company that has benefited from the help offered by the Green Business Programme. Karl shares with us how the grant offered by the Green Business Programme has helped his SME make saving of 30% on energy bills. 

Host: John Bates

Speakers:

Please complete this form to let us know what you think or to join the Green Business Network. 

This programme is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is being delivered by Coventry City Council, Coventry University and Coventry University Enterprises. 

In our first episode, last month, we discussed how the Green Business Programme can support local SMEs in their fight against  climate change. We heard from a local SME how they’ve managed to reduce their energy bill by 40% after installing solar panels. In this episode we will investigate this further and try to find an answer to the question – can solar panels be a solution to help combat climate change and rising energy costs, in rainy England?

Guest speakers:

Host: John Bates

Producer: Maria Covlea


We would like to remind you that all the FREE energy audits we offer, are booked up weeks in advance, so if you are interested in booking one, please complete this form to register and send it back to us.

Learn more about our programme: https://www.coventry.gov.uk/coventry-warwickshire-green-business-programme

Register for our next event: Renewable energy and green transport

Let us know what you think about our podcast by completing our feedback form.

Podcast producer email: maria.covlea@coventry.gov.uk 

In the first part of this episode we speak to Sunil Budhdeo who is the Transport Innovation Manager at Coventry City Council. Sunil explains the concept of the 'Urban Air Port' project and how this will benefit the City. 

In the second part we speak to Tommy Sandhu, Company Director at Smart Learner Driving School, about the Electric Fleet First Programme and how switching to electric vehicles could not only benefit the environment, but also your business!

Listen and learn more about:

This episode is hosted by John Bates and produced by Maria Covlea.

For any feedback or comments please contact me on maria.covlea@coventry.co.uk

Useful links: 

In the first part of this episode we speak to Bean Beanland, Director for Growth & External Affairs at the Heat Pump Federation, about how heat pumps work, how they can benefit SMEs, and most importantly the role they play in the fight against climate change.

In the second part we speak to Chris Dooling, Managing Director at VWG Mechanical and Kyle Grocott, Managing Director at Phoenix Renewables, part of Phoenix Gas Works. VWG Mechanical and Phoenix Renewables have been commissioned (following procurement process) to install heat pumps at the following council-owned buildings: Limbrick Wood, Mosaic Family Hub, Central Library and Cannon Park School. This work will results in a reduction of 139 tonnes of CO2 per year. Chris and Kyle will explain us what challenges they've faced during the installation process.

Guest speakers:

This episode is hosted by John Bates and produced by Maria Covlea.

For any feedback or comments please contact me on maria.covlea@coventry.co.uk

Useful links: 

In this episode we speak to David Pipe, Senior Officer at Coventry City Council, part of the Transport Innovation Team.

David explains what plans the council has got in place to make transport in Coventry greener and more accessible for everyone.

This episode is hosted by John Bates and produced by Maria Covlea.

For any feedback or comments please contact me on maria.covlea@coventry.co.uk

Useful links: 

In this episode we speak to Martin Gambling, Managing Director of GRM Consulting, a small business based in Leamington. 

Martin shares with us their journey towards achieving Net Zero as a small business, hoping to offer some inspiration and solutions to other SMEs who might be struggling at the moment.

This episode is hosted by John Bates and produced by Maria Covlea.

For any feedback or comments please contact me on maria.covlea@coventry.co.uk

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Please note the Green Business Programme will close for new applications in the first quarter of 2023. You can register interest by completing this form. The programme will continue to offer free energy audits, which are worth £840, but we can't guarantee you will be offered a grant as funding is currently running low. We are operating on a first come first served basis.

Useful links: 

In this episode, we speak to Margot James, Suzanne Ward and Cllr Jim O’Boyle about Coventry's Climate Change Board, its members, purpose and objectives. In the second part, Cllr O’Boyle speaks about the challenges Coventry faces regarding climate change and the support needed to achieve Net Zero.

Speakers:

Host: John Bates
Producer: Maria Covlea 

Useful links:

In this episode, we talk to Middlemarch Environmental, a UK-wide wildlife trust consultancy, about what local businesses can do to protect the nature in Coventry and Warwickshire. 

Our guest James Calow, Senior Ecologist at Middlemarch Environmental, talks about easy action you can take, as a business or individual, to protect the biodiversity of our region.

James also talks about the support he has received from the Green Business Programme, and how this has enabled his organisation to become more energy efficient and save money.

Speaker: James Calow, Senior Ecologist at Middlemarch Environmental
Host: John Bates
Producer: Maria Covlea

Useful links:
 

In this episode, we speak to Jonathan Howl, Business Advisor for the Green Business Programme, who offers a summary of our team’s achievements over the last 12 months*.

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*The stats provided by Jonathan Howl in this episode are based on figures from November 2022. This episode was recorded in December 2022.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Green Business Programme supports businesses with fewer than 250 employees based in Coventry and Warwickshire who want to save money on energy, waste and water bills and maximise low carbon opportunities.

Speaker: 

Host: John Bates
Producer: Maria Covlea

Useful links:

In this episode, we discuss what carbon accounting is, how businesses can start their net zero journey and overcome the challenges they might face along the way.

In the first part of this episode we talk to Lara Longhurst who is the Chief Operations Officer at Hippo Digital. Lara shares with us their journey towards achieving net zero and talks about the support they have received from Coventry University through their Carbon Accounting Programme. 

In the second part, we talk to Prof. Carl Perrin, Director of the Centre for Clean Growth and Future Mobility, and Dr Lorena C. Moreira, Engineer and Senior Researcher at the Centre for Manufacturing and Materials, Coventry University .

Prof. Perrin and Dr Moreira explain what Carbon Accounting is and how businesses can take advantage of the programme they offer.

Guests:

Host and Producer: Maria Covlea

Email for further contact and enquiry about CU support: Dr Lorena Moreira ad3722@coventry.ac.uk

Useful links:

In this episode of the Green Business Podcast, Jonathan Howl interviews Adam Bastock, the Founder of Small99, a platform that guides small businesses to net zero through practical tips. 

The following topics are covered in this episode:

Host: Jonathan Howl, Green Business Programme Business Advisor 

Guest: Adam Bastock, Founder of Small99

Producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Co-ordinator

Useful links:

In the first part of this episode we speak to Waco Yokoyama, Consultant and Circular Economy Specialist at Gemserv. Waco provides a concise explanation of the circular economy and highlights the main benefits for businesses, including cost reduction, increased sales, and decreased reliance on specific raw materials. She also discusses how the circular economy principles can be applied differently across sectors and emphasises the barriers to implementation and potential solutions.

In the second part we speak to Bret Willers, Head of Climate Change & Sustainability at Coventry City Council who shares insights on Coventry’s draft Climate Change Strategy that incorporates circular economy principles for Coventry residents and businesses.

Speakers: 

Host: Jonathan Howl, Green Business Programme Business Advisor

Producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Co-ordinator

Useful links:

In this episode we discuss how the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme can help businesses lower their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills. 

The Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme* aims to provide information and expert advice and support to businesses enabling them to make significant decarbonization and money saving changes to their business. This Programme is part of the wider West Midlands Business Support activity funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

*Area covered: Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, and the Black Country

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In this episode, we talk with Matthew Rhodes, Director of Camirus.  Matthew has been a leading voice for the decarbonisation efforts of the West Midlands in the last two decades.

Leading a portfolio of collaborative innovation projects centred around energy, industrial decarbonisation, and regional economic development, Matthew shares valuable insights from his extensive experience in assisting businesses in reducing their carbon footprint since the early 2000s. 

Listen in to discover more about:

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In this episode, we speak to Peter Wells, Sustainability Manager at Datagraphic. 

Key Topics:

In this episode, we speak to Robin Carruthers, Operation Manager at Central Mailing Services, a business based in Birmingham.

Robin Carruthers shares their sustainability journey, which aims to become carbon neutral by 2028. He highlights some of the projects and initiatives they have undertaken or planned, such as solar panels, electric vehicles, waste segregation, ISO standards, staff engagement and local partnerships.

Useful links:

In this episode we speak to Anna Bright, CEO of Sustainability West Midlands. 

Sustainability West Midlands is the sustainability champion for the West Midlands. They are a not-for-profit company that works with our members in the private, public and third sectors. 

Anna has been working with organisations to improve their sustainability for over 20 years and has a private sector background in water, waste and wastewater management. As Chief Executive at Sustainability West Midlands she has worked with businesses, universities, colleges, local authorities, the health sector and the West Midlands Combined Authority to help shape the way that they mitigate and adapt to climate change. Anna is on the board of the Midlands Net Zero Hub and the Midlands Engine Green Growth Board, and she is a Trustee for the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust.

In this episode, we discuss: 

Podcast producer: 

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In this episode, we explore the pressing issue of food waste within the food and beverage industry.*

Join us for an insightful conversation as we uncover practical solutions and strategies to tackle food waste, enhance sustainability, and contribute to a greener future.

Tune in to learn how businesses and individuals alike can play a part in reducing food waste and promoting sustainability in the food and beverage sector.

In this episode, we discussed:

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*This episode is part of our Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme and is produced by Aston University. 

Discover more about mining, metals, the green transformation of our modern world, and what it will take to achieve it.  

Join us as we explore these questions and more with Lucy Crane, the ESG & Sustainability Manager at Cornish Lithium. Lucy's extensive background in geology and grassroots exploration, combined with her role in promoting sustainable mining practices, makes her an invaluable resource for understanding the balance between mining and environmental responsibility.

In this episode, we discuss:

Lucy also shares her insights on the future of sustainable mining and its role in the green economy, offering valuable advice for business owners and managers looking to be more mindful of their environmental impact.

Lucy Crane - ESG & Sustainability Manager Lucy Crane is a geologist with a background in grassroots exploration. She holds an MSc in Mining Geology from Camborne School of Mines and a Master's degree in Earth Sciences from the University of Oxford. Before joining Cornish Lithium, she worked as an exploration geologist for Altus Strategies, planning and implementing exploration strategies for base and precious metals projects up to drill stage in Africa. Now, she applies these skills to Cornish Lithium’s exploration programme, fostering collaboration with industry and academic partners to accelerate the exploration programme and test new concepts. Lucy is also actively involved in promoting the mining industry to young professionals and students, sitting on the committee of both Young Mining Professionals and Women in Mining (UK).

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In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of achieving net zero in healthcare, featuring insightful conversations with experts in the field. This episode is part of our Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme’s third workshop.

Podcast Overview: This episode explores the innovative strategies and partnerships that are driving the healthcare sector towards sustainability. Our guests share their experiences and insights on a range of topics, including:

Host: 

Pawan Budhwar- Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor- International and Professor at Aston University

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Can Brian Sheng’s company, Aquaria, revolutionise water supply by extracting it from thin air? Join us to explore how Aquaria is tackling one of the most overlooked climate challenges: clean water scarcity. 

Founded by Brian Sheng, Aquaria is pioneering atmospheric water generators that create drinking water from the air. In this episode, we explore the potential of this technology to address the global water crisis and what it will take to make clean water accessible to all. 

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In this episode, we sit down with Elliot Parnham, Founder and Managing Director of Skyfarer, a pioneering company utilising autonomous flight technology to deliver vital medical supplies with unprecedented speed and efficiency. Elliot, an ambitious engineer with an MSc in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University, shares his insights on how drones are transforming business operations across various sectors. From last-mile delivery to infrastructure inspection, discover the sustainability benefits and challenges of integrating drones into modern business practices. 

Join us for an enlightening conversation on the future of drone technology and its potential to revolutionise industries while reducing carbon footprints.

Listen and learn more about:

Podcast producer: 

In this episode, we talk with Nersi Salehi, Managing Director of Pro Enviro Limited, about maximising energy efficiency and sustainability. Pro Enviro is a leading firm of energy engineers and scientists dedicated to helping businesses cut their energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Nersi, an industry expert, shares his extensive knowledge on energy audits and their benefits. He provides essential tips on how businesses can significantly reduce their energy bills and move towards a more sustainable future.

In this episode, we cover:

Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council

Guest speaker: Nersi Salehi, Managing Director, Pro Enviro Limited

Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Lead, Coventry City Council

Useful links:

In this episode, The Green Business Podcast explores how the circular economy can help businesses cut costs and boost profits. Host Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor for the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, is joined by James Woodcock, Senior Project Manager at International Synergies, to discuss innovative ways to transform waste into valuable resources.

Key discussion points include:

Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council

Guest speaker: James Woodcock, Senior Project Manager at International Synergies

Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Manager, Coventry City Council

To access support from James and his team please contact them at:
 

Useful links:

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Green Business Podcast, please contact the podcast producer, Maria Covlea, at maria.covlea@coventry.gov.uk

In this episode of The Green Business Podcast, host Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor for the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, explores an inspiring success story that combines sustainability with innovation in an unexpected sector: nightlife.

Our guest, Chris McTurk of 147 Nightclub in Coventry, shares how his business achieved an impressive 92.5% energy self-sufficiency through solar PV installation with battery storage. Listen to learn how sustainability can drive cost savings, operational efficiency, and positive brand engagement.

Listen and learn more about: 

Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council

Guest speaker: Chris Mcturk, Owner, Club 147

Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Manager, Coventry City Council

Useful links:

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Green Business Podcast, please contact the podcast producer, Maria Covlea, at maria.covlea@coventry.gov.uk

In this episode of The Green Business Podcast, host Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor for the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, dives into a compelling case study with Alex Patrick-Smith, the Managing Director of Hinton, Perry, and David Hill. This historic manufacturing business, operating since 1805, shares its journey of embracing energy efficiency and sustainability while maintaining its legacy of producing durable, long-lasting products.

Discover the unique challenges of decarbonising a high-energy industry, the benefits of engaging with the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, and actionable insights from energy audits and innovative upgrades. From improving kiln efficiency to exploring solar panels and carbon capture, Alex discusses the company's roadmap to achieving net zero by 2050.

Key Highlights:

Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council

Guest speaker: Alex Patrick-Smith, Executive Chairman, Hinton Perry & Davenhill Ltd.

Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Manager, Coventry City Council

Useful links:

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Green Business Podcast, please contact the podcast producer, Maria Covlea, at maria.covlea@coventry.gov.uk

In this episode of The Green Business Podcast, host Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor for the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, explores the benefits of B Corp certification with guest Annie Olivier, Head of Growth at B Lab UK. Together, they explore the practicalities of becoming a certified B Corp, from understanding its rigorous standards to unlocking its potential to drive positive social and environmental impact.

Annie shares her insights from over a decade of working in nonprofits, tackling issues like wildlife conservation, fair trade textiles, and productivity challenges. She explains how the B Corp movement is promoting an inclusive and equitable economic system by helping businesses balance profit, purpose, and planet.

Key Highlights:

Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council

Guest speaker:  Annie Olivier, Head of Growth, B Lab UK

Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Manager, Coventry City Council

Useful links:

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Green Business Podcast, please contact the podcast producer, Maria Covlea, at maria.covlea@coventry.gov.uk

Welcome back to The Green Business Podcast! In this episode, host Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor for the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, discusses the critical topic of carbon accounting with a special focus on Scope 3 emissions.

Jonathan is joined by David Wilshin from Auditel, who is a specialist in carbon reduction strategies. Together, they explore:

Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council

Guest speaker: David Wilshin, Carbon Specialist, Auditel

Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Manager, Coventry City Council

Useful links:

If you have any questions or suggestions for the Green Business Podcast, please contact the podcast producer, Maria Covlea, at maria.covlea@coventry.gov.uk
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