Energy efficiency could save businesses Â£1.4bn in 2008

Companies across the UK could save a total of £1.4 billion by introducing a series of affordable energy efficiency measures, according to a green business expert.

At the same time introducing the changes would prevent 11 million more tones of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere, claimed Tom Delay, chief executive of the Carbon Trust.

In a six step action plan, the trust outlined simple steps that businesses could take to reduce both their carbon footprint and energy bills.

"Reducing your carbon footprint through improved energy efficiency should be top of the New Year's resolution list for any business in 2008," Mr Delay said.

"Putting energy efficiency and carbon saving into action couldn't be easier and switching off lights, turning down the heating and turning off equipment when not in use can save businesses an average of more than ten per cent on their energy bills."

According to figures published by the trust, businesses making a 20 per cent reduction in their energy usage could save the equivalent of a five per cent sales increase. ADNFCR-1231-ID-18414100-ADNFCR