Climate change can’t be ignored

By 2050, life on earth will have reached a tipping point. We will need the equivalent of three planets to sustain present levels of consumption. It’s a stark prognosis. We are the generation that must act to change the outcome.

As a leading retailer, I believe we have a responsibility to tackle climate change. But businesses cannot do it alone – governments need to take responsibility too. International government leaders were in Bali last week to examine what must be done and they must agree to put the necessary policy and legal framework in place.

In April, B&Q became part of the Together campaign – formed in response to research that shows that people feel powerless when faced with climate change. The campaign has highlighted practical steps that can help households reduce their carbon emissions and has encouraged 5 million actions so far, resulting in a saving of 100,000 tonnes of C02.

Building on this, the Prime Minister has identified rightly that there is even greater scope for businesses and the voluntary sector to work with governments to mobilise individuals to take action. I am working with National Trust chief executive Fiona Reynolds to recommend ways to achieve this.

Consumers are increasingly aware of sustainability issues. At B&Q, we know our customers want more guidance on energy efficiency and renewable technology. As a result, we have introduced energy- and water-efficient products to the mass market at affordable prices and have been educating customers about how easy and cost-effective it is to insulate their homes.

A barrier to purchasing energy-efficient products is cost. B&Q has long supported a reduced VAT rate on energy-efficient products. I am delighted that the Prime Minister will campaign to secure EU agreement for this VAT cut.

For microgeneration equipment, a second factor deterring consumers is the perceived effort required to install them – specifically, the hassle of obtaining planning permission. So I welcome the Government’s new Planning Bill, which will have a positive impact on consumer behaviour.

Saving money and becoming more sustainable is good business and good for business. It can make a difference to a company’s bottom line.

In a survey on B&Q’s web site DIY.com, 64 per cent said a company’s green credentials are important to them when buying a product. When we launched our wind turbines in 2006, not only did they help people to live more sustainably, they became our best-selling product in terms of value. To ignore this shift is not only a threat to the environment, but to future business success.

Businesses also have a responsibility to lead by example. At B&Q, we realised a long time ago the need to work with our supply chain to reduce our environmental impact. We developed our sustainable timber policy more than 25 years ago and we have a long history of working with NGOs.

Governments, businesses, society and individuals all have a part to play. Together we can make a difference.

Ian Cheshire is chief executive of B&Q