Construction businesses with green idea told to grab a chunk of £18m

Construction businesses that have a clever idea for a new product that will reduce greenhouse gases should apply for money from a new green investment fund.


Environmental expert Simon de Grey, from leading training and environmental company Pivotal Performance, says the Carbon Trust has just made £18 million available.


And it is willing to invest in the development of new ideas that will help the environment.


"The only snag is that you have to prove that your idea is commercially viable," explained Simon.


"You must submit a business plan demonstrating how investment would lead to CO2 emissions savings, while also generating a commercial return.


"The Carbon Trust will provide up to 50 per cent of the investment your business requires, so you will also need to source other private investors to make up the remaining funds."


Business plans must also show evidence of innovation. The fund is only open to UK companies.


But Simon's still excited about it. He said: "I know from the consulting I do with companies about how to reduce the impact of their business on the environment, that business leaders are willing to invest in green.


"But only if they can see a measurable return on investment. The fastest measures a company is willing to take are those which reduce the amount of raw materials used, as that instantly boosts profits.


"So long as the Carbon Trust only funds schemes that will save customers a lot more money than they cost, this green fund will have a very positive effect on the planet."


Simon de Grey is a highly qualified environmental consultant, and a professional member of the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment.


Pivotal Performance is one of the UK's leading health and safety training and environmental companies.


It has a unique way of training people called PPTplus, which teaches delegates how to win commitment from others, not just compliance.