Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Business and Sustainability Together is a free business support programme delivered in conjunction with Keele University with a focus on what really works when it comes to reducing energy consumption and costs.
Who should attend
This programme is ideal for:
- business owners and managers looking to reduce energy costs
- organisations starting to explore sustainability but unsure where to begin
- local suppliers or service providers working in energy, construction, facilities, or community engagement
- anyone who wants to connect with others locally and see what support is available
The programme provides workshops where you will:
- see real examples - local case studies of energy and efficiency projects already saving money
- meet others in your area - network with like-minded businesses, suppliers, and support organisations
- pick up quick wins - learn low-cost actions you can start right away
- raise your profile - showcase what your organisation does
- enjoy a free lunch - stay to chat and build connections over local food and good company
Workshops
It's the 'wood' life: Woodlands!
- 3 March 2026 - 2pm to 5pm - Hopton and Coton Village Hall
Explore how woodlands can be valued both for nature and as carbon stores, and what this means for organisational investment and stewardship.
Local woodland owner Mike Taylor shares how restoring neglected woodland through coppicing has boosted biodiversity and carbon sequestration, alongside live demonstrations and hands-on activities.
Join us for discussion, refreshments, and networking.
Unlocking Sustainability Certification
- 4 March 2026 - 12noon to 1pm - Online
This workshop is for SMEs and larger organisations starting or sharpening their sustainability journey, as well as community/anchor organisations interested in credible standards and claims.
Sustainability certifications are everywhere. Labels like B Corp, SBTi, EcoVardis get thrown around. But what do they actually mean, how hard are they to achieve, and which ones matter for your customers, supply chain and procurement?
In this practical session seasoned experts at Positive Planet will run you through the options available to organisations and the best choice for your organisation.
Book the Unlocking Sustainability Certification workshop online.
If you cannot attend a workshop, but would like to have a one-to-one conversation around cost saving, please email Tom Bedford at skills.bootcamps@keele.ac.uk, or phone 01782 731607.
To hear more from businesses like Aston Marina, Perrys of Eccleshall, Taylors Classics who have benefitted from adopting new ways of saving energy costs, please see Sustainable Stafford.
This programme is run by Keele University, funded by Stafford Borough Council and UK Government.