From Guest Blogger Dimitris Papadoupolos: Best Locations for a Green Business in the UK
Creating an eco-friendly business can be challenging — but green entrepreneurs can now take advantage of support from consumers and government initiatives.
Whether your business is directly involved in the green economy — or you just want to reduce the carbon footprint of a regular business, there are hotspots across the UK where you’ll slot in smoothly.
So here are a few of the best locations for green businesses in the UK.
Bristol
Bristol was European Green Capital 2015 and further green credentials include hosting the Soil Association, the Environment Agency and the BBC Natural History Unit.
Other attractions include Noah’s Ark Zoo farm and the Create Centre and Ecohome — where visitors can find out how to switch to sustainable living and protect the environment.
And you could even entertain contacts with a breath-taking hot air balloon ride over the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.
It’s home to lots of independent shops, bars and restaurants — so if you intend to sell trendy street food or open a bohemian clothes boutique, it could be a good bet.
Birmingham
For those who’ve never visited, Birmingham’s industrial heritage might conjure up images of dreary factories belching out clouds of black smoke.
But Brum is actually home to 17 of Britain’s best green spaces — so it’s a prime spot to slot an eco-friendly business into the mix.
The Green Flag scheme is run by Keep Britain Tidy and based on criteria including first class facilities, cleanliness, quality and safety.
The inclusion of rural sites like New Hall Valley Country Park is no surprise — but the list also includes inner city attractions like War End Park and Aston Park.
London
Securing prime commercial properties in London still requires a considerable financial outlay.
But if you can bag a bargain in an emerging borough, you’ll capitalise on the capital’s hidden eco credentials.
London was rated one of the greenest cities in Britain by the Green & Pleasant project in 2017 and lauded for its low carbon emissions, low gas consumption and protected green spaces.
So if your business contributes to recycling or zero-emissions transport, there’s a great chance you’ll be welcomed in this vibrant metropolis.
Edinburgh
Ranked by the percentage of green spaces within city limits alone, Edinburgh is the greenest city in the UK.
And its city skyline combines awesome architecture with unique natural features.
The iconic castle sits atop a dormant volcano and the parliament buildings are nestled in the shadows of Salisbury Crags and Arthur’s Seat.
Cosmopolitan Stockbridge is a great location for a craft shop or upcycling collective — but areas like Leith have much to recommend them too.
Commercial property specialists like Town Door can help you locate the ideal properties in eco-conscious locations, but ongoing success depends on your commercial acumen.
Pick any one of the best locations for a green business in the UK and there’s a great chance your business will blossom.
Do you run a green business? Share your location advice in the comments section.
