BECOMING plastic free champions and using solar power are just some of the ways business in Wimborne are doing their bit to reduce their carbon footprint.

Businesses across the town came together to discuss the work they have taken so far to help the environment at a free forum, organised by Wimborne Business Improvement District (BID) as part of Planet Wimborne’s Green Festival.

Eco ambassadors at one of Wimborne’s biggest employers Teachers Building Society, Lucy Greenwood and Mel Stirling, have created environmental working groups to initiate changes to working practices.

Some of these changes have seen their business be recognised as a plastic free champion, with only reusable cups and water bottles allowed in the workplace.

As well as this, all office lights are now LED providing 80% more efficiency and outside of the office, they have created a wildflower border to encourage wildlife.

The team have also been working in the community to help on tree-planting schemes at Moors Valley Country Park and take part in ‘war on waste’ litter picks as well as gaining the coveted ‘Litter Free Coast and Sea Award’.

Mel Stirling said: “The catalyst for change at Teachers has been driven by the staff and many of the eco initiatives we’ve introduced in the workplace are now being implemented by our team at home.

“Our aim is to not just do research on how we can reduce our carbon impact but act on it.

“Our committee is now working towards greater reduction of the business carbon footprint and working towards carbon zero.”

Another business highlighted for their eco-efforts is Dacombes of Wimborne who have been using solar energy to help power the hundreds of domestic appliances in their large showroom.

This is possible thanks to a collaboration with Low Carbon Dorset which offers grant initiatives for businesses trying to be more environmentally friendly.

Managing director of Dacombes of Wimborne, Matt Renaut Picture: Windborne BID

Managing director Matt Renaut said: “With air-conditioning, lighting, TVs and displays, our electricity drain equated to having three kettles boiling all day long.

“I used to have to sit down before opening our monthly electricity bill!

“Wimborne BID put me in touch with Low Carbon Dorset and our power is now self-sufficient during opening hours.”

As well as grants, Low Carbon Dorset offers free and impartial energy-saving advice to any businesses wanting to reduce their environmental impact.

Visit Low Carbon Dorset – Helping reduce Dorset’s footprint to find out more.

An exhibition detailing projects supported by Low Carbon Dorset is on display in Wimborne Minster during Planet Wimborne’s Green Festival until 19th October.

BID chairperson, Fiona Harwood said: “It’s so impressive to hear these stories of local businesses making a positive impact with evidence to prove it. What was really evident is that small changes can make a huge difference, and that the most important thing is to take the first step.

Sustainability is a big part of the BID Strategy and we’re so proud to have these eco champion businesses in this town.”

Dr Neil Smith, one of Planet Wimborne’s directors who helped draft the Sustainability Strategy, said: “We were delighted to be able to work with Wimborne BID to produce this Strategy.

“The town is already rightly proud of its environmental credentials and this strategy clearly shows both organisations are passionate to improve the local area for businesses and so help the town thrive.

“Sustainability is now a core and positive element for businesses to embrace and this Strategy helps them see what they can do to improve the environment. But our involvement does not end here, as we look forward to continuing our partnership working and see the Strategy actions fulfilled.”

For Wimborne businesses that want to know more about Windborne BID and its networking and business events, contact office@wimborne.info