Extend Plus Project Report : Carbon Baselining SMEs: Insights from the Glasgow City Region

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Birnie, Steven and Marchbanks, Thomas and kutsarova, lyudmila and McIlroy, Marcella and Ward, Rachel (2025) Extend Plus Project Report : Carbon Baselining SMEs: Insights from the Glasgow City Region. University of Strathclyde, Glasgow.

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Abstract

The ExtendPlus programme, initiated by Glasgow City Council (GCC) in collaboration with the University of Strathclyde, was funded via the UK Governments Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF). It has been instrumental in supporting Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on their journey toward Net Zero. By providing a complimentary Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Carbon Baseline assessment, the programme has engaged 288 SMEs across 14 industrial sectors and 7 regional authorities, offering them tailored recommendations for reducing carbon emissions and improving their overall environmental sustainability. Through a robust methodology, ExtendPlus has conducted face-to-face carbon assessments, delivered bespoke Carbon Baseline Reports, and provided training for business advisors. Additionally, the programme has fostered collaboration among regional authorities and facilitated knowledge-sharing through advisory functions, lessons-learned sessions, and ongoing capacity-building efforts. Key insights from the initiative highlight the scale of emissions recorded—31,085.4 tCO2e in total, with an average of 107.9 tCO2e per SME. Notably, 59% of participating businesses submitted Scope 3 emissions data, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive carbon accounting. The programme has also helped SMEs unlock grant funding and additional financial support for implementing renewable energy solutions, enhancing their competitiveness in procurement processes while driving long-term financial savings. Beyond economic benefits, ExtendPlus has delivered significant environmental and community impacts. Businesses have gained a deeper awareness of their carbon footprint, adopted more sustainable practices, and improved waste management strategies. This awareness initiative will contribute to cleaner air and better health outcomes for local communities by reducing emissions from industrial and transportation activities. ExtendPlus has played a pivotal role in equipping SMEs with the knowledge and tools necessary to assess and reduce their carbon footprint. By fostering collaboration between businesses, regional authorities, and sustainability experts within academia, the programme has significantly contributed to advancing climate action within the SME sector. Moving forward, the insights gained will help refine strategies for continued environmental impact and long-term business sustainability.

CORE (COnnecting REpositories)