Earth Day 2026: Helping small businesses build a more sustainable future
What is Earth Day?
Founded in 1970 by environmental activist John McConnell, Earth Day is an annual event dedicated to protecting the environment and raising awareness of the growing threats facing our planet. It has grown into a global movement that encourages millions of people each year to reflect on the planet’s wellbeing and take action to protect it for generations to come.
This year’s theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet,’ reflects a powerful truth - environmental progress is driven by the everyday actions of individuals and communities. For small businesses, that power lies in choosing smarter, more sustainable energy solutions which reduce carbon emissions while helping build a cleaner future. Earth Day is a reminder that we all have the power and the responsibility to protect our planet.
Earth Day is marked by actions such as switching to renewable energy sources, using public transport and reducing waste. Many people also get involved in conservation projects, sustainable living choices and educational events that raise awareness. These activities show how individual and community efforts can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet.
Small businesses making a big difference
Small businesses across the UK are playing an increasingly important role in driving sustainability by making smart changes. From investing in renewable energy and improving energy efficiency to reducing waste and lowering carbon emissions - small businesses are highlighting that sustainable choices are achievable at any scale.
This video showcases the small businesses that are making a real impact in their local communities.
Why do we need to take action?
A growing carbon footprint is a significant threat to the health of our planet. Most carbon emissions come from generating electricity, heating homes and powering transport with fossil fuels - releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Cleaner, low-carbon energy and greater efficiency are essential to cutting emissions.
The choices we make with our energy play a crucial role in protecting the planet and building a more sustainable future.
Our mission
As Britain’s largest producer of zero‑carbon electricity, our mission is to build a net-zero energy future by reducing the UK’s carbon footprint and tackling climate change. We’re investing in nuclear energy to deliver reliable, low‑carbon energy whilst continuing to expand renewable sources to support a cleaner, more sustainable energy system.
Moving forward, we’re committed to playing our part in building an Electric Britain - one with a secure, affordable and reliable energy system that supports the UK’s net zero goals. Here’s what we are doing to help:
Fixed Renewable Tariff
We’ve launched a Fixed Renewable Tariff to give small businesses a simpler, more transparent way to choose sustainable energy. Built in response to growing demand for greener options, the tariff offers electricity matched with UK‑sourced Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs), allowing businesses to report zero carbon emissions for their electricity use. With fixed prices for one to four years, easy switching, and tailored support from our energy specialists, it helps small businesses take a confident step towards their sustainability goals while keeping energy straightforward, reliable and easy to manage.
Get a quote in 60 seconds here.
EV Charging
We have partnered with Pod to help small businesses make the switch to electric vehicles as easy as possible by installing reliable and easy‑to‑manage workplace charging points.
Pod provides an end to end solution - from design and installation to ongoing support, helping businesses charge fleets, employees’ and customers’ electric vehicles with confidence. By supporting the rollout of EV charging infrastructure, we’re helping small businesses cut transport related emissions and take a practical step towards a lower carbon future.
Additionally, there is government grants available to support EV charger installations so businesses can reduce costs while cutting transport related emissions.
Business solar panels
We give small businesses the power to take control of their energy with solar panels, which convert sunlight into clean, usable energy for day‑to‑day operations. By generating power on‑site, small businesses can significantly cut their electricity costs-often by 30-60% - while reducing exposure to rising energy prices and lowering their carbon footprint.
Additionally, excess electricity can be exported back to the grid through the UK’s Smart Export Guarantee - creating an additional revenue stream. Furthermore, eligible installations can benefit from tax relief through the Annual Investment Allowance. Thanks to minimal maintenance, long system lifespans and the option to add battery storage - solar panels for small businesses, with the right roof space and daytime energy needs, are a smart long‑term investment.
Battery Storage
Battery storage allows small businesses to store electricity and use it later - whether that’s energy from solar panels or cheaper off‑peak power from the grid. By enabling small businesses to store electricity and use it when they need it most, battery storage helps maximise the value of renewable energy, reduce reliance on peak‑time grid electricity and improve energy resilience. Battery storage gives small businesses more control over how and when they use energy, supporting cost savings and a more sustainable future.
Small steps, big impact this Earth Day
This Earth Day, the message is clear - Our Power, Our Planet is more than a theme - it’s a call to action. Protecting our planet doesn’t rely on a single solution but on the collective choices we make every day. By embracing cleaner energy and investing in sustainable options, small businesses can play a vital role in cutting carbon emissions and building a more resilient energy future.
