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SMEs 'should move into environmental sectors'

Published On 8 March 2007 at 10:20:05

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are being urged to consider moving into the environmental goods and services sector as it is predicted to grow rapidly in the coming years, according to a new report.

Research carried out by Shell Springboard predicts that the UK market for services relating to climate change will reach £2.8 billion by 2008.

Increased consumer awareness and government policy will mean that the climate change market will grow by 21 per cent this year and experts predict that this growth will continue into long-term.

"With the climate change market growing, these are serious opportunities for businesses that can help to tackle climate change," said James Smith, the chairman of Shell UK.

The government is also backing SMEs to get involved in the environmental sector. Climate change and environment minister Ian Pearson added: "There are rapidly expanding markets for low-carbon products and services.

"The world market for environmental goods and services is projected to grow from $548 billion in 2004 to $800 billion by 2015."

Trade and industry secretary Alistair Darling also explained that "British business is backing words with action on the environment".

 

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