Tackling climate change 'a priority' for leading firms

Introducing sustainable office practices and reducing their impact on climate change is a priority for the UK's leading businesses in 2008, a new survey has claimed.

The research, undertaken by Chatsworth Communications, discovered that energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions were the main priority for the FTSE 100 companies.

At the same time the study revealed that firms are doing less to involve their employees in the greening process, with only five per cent indicating they planned to promote flexible working and video conferencing.

Nick Warren, an account executive for Chatsworth Communications, said: "The boards of the FTSE 100 have realised the importance of a comprehensive corporate social responsibility strategy which cuts right across their operations and is sustainable in the long term."

"Although businesses are taking positive steps, there are some areas in which they cannot make progress, such as switching to renewable energy sources, without leadership at the highest political level."

Government-backed body the Carbon Trust offers interest free loans of between £5,000 and £100,000 to businesses looking to make energy efficiency improvements.