Are you an SME determined to reduce your carbon footprint?

For SMEs genuinely committed to reducing their carbon footprint, the journey to net zero can often feel unnecessarily complex.

Several years ago, FISP member Rhubarb took the decision to begin measuring its carbon footprint and to develop a credible pathway towards net zero. In doing so, the business encountered two significant challenges:

• Identifying a carbon calculator that was both credible and reliable, while also practical to maintain and update
• Developing a detailed carbon reduction plan that could demonstrate genuine commitment to third parties and provide measurable milestones

Rhubarb engaged with a number of consultants and advisers. However, many appeared to focus more on technical jargon than delivering practical, cost-effective solutions. Tools were often opaque, difficult to manage, and came with limited support.

With the ongoing support of FISP membership—including advice and recommendations from the FISP audit process—Rhubarb continued its search for a workable solution.

That changed when the business was introduced to the SME Climate Hub.

Quite simply, it has proved to be one of the most valuable resources Rhubarb has encountered—and notably, it is completely free.

The SME Climate Hub is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting SMEs on their path to net zero. It operates globally in partnership with organisations such as the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions’ Race to Zero campaign. In addition to its in-house expertise, the Hub connects members with a global network of specialists and advisers.

Members gain access to practical guidance, expert support, and a suite of tools that would otherwise be out of reach for many SMEs. Two resources in particular have had a significant impact for Rhubarb:

• The Small Business Carbon Calculator
• The Climate Action Planner

The carbon calculator is intuitive, easy to use, and aligned with internationally recognised standards. It produces results that businesses can confidently use, helping to avoid concerns about credibility or greenwashing.

While Rhubarb has consistently benefited from high-quality support from the Hub, the launch of the Climate Action Planner proved particularly impactful.

Again, the tool is entirely free. In around an hour, it enables businesses to create a tailored carbon reduction plan, complete with practical initiatives, projected impact, and implementation timelines. It provides clear evidence of commitment to reducing carbon emissions, alongside a structured framework for accountability and progress.

For Rhubarb, this addressed one of the most persistent challenges it had faced for several years: developing a practical, credible, and shareable roadmap to net zero. It has also supported more effective engagement with trading partners, helping to demonstrate how sustainability goals can be achieved collaboratively.

The resulting plan, supported by FISP S accreditation, has strengthened Rhubarb’s position as a manufacturer committed to sustainability and circularity.

If your business is serious about reducing its carbon footprint, Rhubarb encourages you to spend an hour exploring the SME Climate Hub: https://smeclimatehub.org/

You may find, as they did, that it becomes an invaluable part of your sustainability journey.