Businesses are walking their way to being more sustainable

Small businesses are taking steps to become more sustainable by connecting with the natural world. That is the conclusion of Jackie Jarvis the driving force behind Natural Netwalking, a group committed to linking a ramble in the countryside with making good business connections.

“I have noticed how keen people are to get to grips with the climate challenge in their business. Yet too many of us really do not know how to get started. What is happening on our netwalks is that people are sharing their experiences and inspiring each other. And there is no drought of ideas or solutions being shared as a result.”

Natural Netwalking has events all over Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, attracting hundreds of people with its focus on making new business contacts, but the urgency of responding to our changing climate is now a frequent conversation topic.

“The main reason for people coming on our walks is to help businesses thrive by making helpful connections. And there is no doubt that by doing this in our wonderful countryside, conversations about business frequently turn to reducing you are your business’ carbon footprint, tackling waste and doing things better. You could say it is the power of nature which is working here!”

Katie Clouttie, Head of Production at the Oxford video production company Tom Dick and Debbie says they have adopted Natural Netwalking and every time they walk it is reminding them why they have committed to reducing their carbon footprint.

“We have been reviewing all our energy use and begun looking to change the way we do things to be more sustainable. It is great to hear how other businesses are approaching this too. We explored how we can cut the number of car journeys we make, how to be more energy efficient in the studio and the advantages of installing solar panels. But you can easily lose momentum if you do not experience the natural world. So, by going Natural Netwalking in the countryside we are connecting back to nature and, I think, reflecting on why we are making changes to become more sustainable.”

According to Owen Hughes who is a social responsibility consultant at CSR Accreditation, sharing experiences is one of the things most valued by people coming on the walks.

“There is such a positive bond that comes from walking together. People go away feeling energised. It is a definite bonus to find people making that link between real problems in their businesses and our changed climate and drive to lower carbon emissions.”

“Whilst the Government plans to achieve ‘net zero’ emissions by 2050, it is far from clear what positive steps small businesses can take. Being on a walk can get you thinking more about how we can do business and minimise the harm to nature, to be more sustainable.”

Jackie Jarvis believes there is a quiet transformation happening in the business world which could help bring significant changes without the need to force change. “Businesses are turning to our ‘walk and talk’ events at Natural Netwalking to draw inspiration. And the chance to clear your head, get exercise and feel revived are all great for anyone in business too.”

To join the walk, you must book a place via the Natural Netwalking website www.naturalnetwalking.co.uk

The next walks are:

• Goring & Streatley, Fri 2nd September 7.30am-9.30am, Fri, Sep 2, 07:30, Swan
• Blenheim Palace, Oxon. Wed 21st Sept 9.30am-11.30am
• Waddesdon Manor, Tues 27th  Sept  9.30am -11.30am

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