Just weeks after the publication of the Stern Report, which warns about failure to address climate change, a survey reveals that almost one in three (29%) of the UK’s top businesses feel that ‘being perceived as a green company doesn’t really matter’.

Management and workers alike are failing to take the threat seriously; a situation dubbed ‘outrageous’ by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) experts.

The research, conducted by vehicle management company LeasePlan among 200 large UK companies, shows that many businesses are doing nothing in the face of climbing temperatures and rising water levels. It also reveals that over half (51%) of businesses admit they are not doing everything they could to be environmentally friendly.

David Brennan, managing director of LeasePlan UK, explains: “These numbers reveal that not all businesses are prioritising environmental responsibility in their operations. There are many ways companies can lower their impact on the environment, but because transport ranks as one of the biggest sources of carbon emissions in the UK, examining and improving fleet emissions should be one of the first areas businesses review.”

The research also found that key reasons for not adopting greener business operations were largely down to apathy among both management (34%) and employees (41%).

David Brennan continues: “There are many relatively simple actions a fleet operator can take to reduce fleet emissions, such as reviewing the specific vehicles used in the fleet and managing fuel consumption. There are also a number of suppliers, LeasePlan included, that are able to help companies with these reviews.

“But it’s not just up to management to make strides towards greener business operation, particularly with regard to motoring. Drivers must also take responsibility for reducing emissions, which can be achieved through measures such as considered journey planning and preparation.”

Rob Cameron, Director of CSR consultancy Flag which works with major blue chips including Ford and Friends Provident, said: “The outcome of this research is outrageous. The climate change imperative is huge but this evidence suggests that business is failing to connect the opportunities to both save money and cut emissions. After all, saving energy is much cheaper than buying energy.

“Smart companies are adding big numbers to their bottom line by cutting emissions through both energy savings and fuel efficiency. And more, they are also reaping the benefits of improved employee morale and attractiveness as recruiters for the best talent. Clearly, there is still a big education challenge ahead of us.”