26/06/25

600 Hospitality SMEs to benefit from free carbon and electricity saving support

600 Hospitality SMEs to benefit from free carbon and electricity saving support

We’re proud to announce that Zero Carbon Services, the climate tech and advisory company that founded Zero Carbon Forum, is delivering a new government-funded trial to help small and medium-sized hospitality businesses cut carbon, reduce waste, and save on energy costs, completely free of charge. 


Over 600 pubs, restaurants, cafes and hotels across the UK will benefit from this opportunity, with tailored support designed to uncover hidden savings and strengthen long-term resilience. 


A sector under pressure and why this matters 


Hospitality is an industry at the cornerstone of communities across the country, but there’s no denying it’s a tough time to run a business.  


Mark Chapman, CEO of Zero Carbon Services, says:  
 
“Climate change is already impacting hospitality with extreme weather events reducing sales and increasing food supply costs. Combined with other cost increases, there has never been a more important time to both recover lost profits and take credible action on reducing carbon emissions, the key cause of climate change.”  


We speak to operators every week who are looking for practical ways to reduce their running costs, respond to the immediate challenges of climate change, and future-proof their businesses, but lack the time, money or headspace to take action. That’s exactly what this trial is here to address. 


Free assessment tailored to your venue


The trial is open to independently owned or operated pubs, restaurants, hotels and cafes. If selected, operators will receive: 

  • A measurement of their carbon emissions (a carbon footprint) 

  • A tailored Carbon Reduction Plan based on their site's electricity, waste and water data 

  • Support from an expert Carbon Coach who will continually monitor the site and help make changes that cut costs and emissions 

Our approach is simple: no jargon, just clear, practical advice that helps you run an efficient, lower-carbon and more profitable business. 


Helping hospitality lead the way 


We’ve already helped thousands of businesses across the UK save millions through energy and food waste reduction. Now, thanks to this new funding from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), we’re able to offer that support to more of the brilliant independents that make up the backbone of the sector. 


We’re proud to be working closely with UKHospitality, the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), and the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) to make this trial a success, helping businesses cut waste, protect profits and build resilience in the face of rising costs and climate pressures. 


As our CEO Mark Chapman puts it: 

“Most venues have opportunities to save energy, food and money without realising it. By combining smart data with one-to-one coaching, we help operators take simple, practical steps that reduce waste, lower emissions and improve day-to-day efficiency. It’s about making small changes that add up - cutting waste, protecting profits and building a stronger, more resilient sector.” 


Want to take part? 

Space are limited and trialists are selected at random. The first trial starts in June 2025.
 
You can find more details about the trial, including how to register your interest, on our SME trial page: www.zerocarboncompany.org/sme-trial