Climate change has rocketed up the political and business agenda over the last twelve months and the case for business and public sector organisations to make a contribution to the reduction of green house gasses is compelling.

But many employers are still unaware of how easy it is to reduce their “carbon footprint” and save money at the same time. They are also unaware that, if they don’t do so voluntarily, they will almost certainly face legislation and taxes that will force the issue.

However, it isn’t always clear what help and support is available to organisations that want to make changes. If you are concerned about climate change and want to know more about tackling it, join Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership at a Climate Change Event (sponsored by Brighton & Hove City Council and SEEDA), designed to make tackling climate change easy for your organisation. It will be held on Monday 23rd July 2007 from 5.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. at The De Vere Grand, Brighton.

The keynote speaker Steve Hargreaves, Managing Director, Residential & SME Markets, EDF Energy, will outline the business case for tackling climate change within your organisation (EDF Energy recently launched their own climate commitments) whilst Tony Mernagh, Executive Director, Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership, will outline the potential consequences of delayed action (climate change levy, carbon allocation schemes etc).

You will have the opportunity to attend workshops specifically aimed at organisations of any size. The Carbon Trust will provide information and practical, easy steps for large organisations, Business Link and Ecosys for small to medium sized organisations. These organisations can tell you about carbon management programmes and environmental audits.

Brighton & Hove City Council’s Workplace Travel Planner will be on hand to provide advice and the Council will also be launching their Carbon Management Dossier a guide providing information on how to take action on energy efficiency and carbon management for the business community.

Come prepared with the total annual energy spend for your organisation (excluding transport fuel) if you want to find out how much you could save. It couldn’t be easier!!

A local produce buffet supper with drinks will be served providing an ideal chance to network.

To help with planning for the event please confirm your attendance and provide an indication of your energy spend (under £50,000 a year or over £50,000 a year) by contacting Eleanor Mooney on eleanormooney@btconnect.com or 01273 291 092 by Monday 16th July.

Organisations already signed up to take part include Hilton Brighton Metropole, GMAC, Glaxo Smith Klein, Telegen, Family Assurance, Midnight Communications, Brighton & Hove City College, Sussex University, Thistle Hotel, Allied Irish Bank, DMH Stallard, AVT, Brighton & Hove Bus and Coach Company, Hotel 19, Southern Water, Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, The Argus, Sussex Stationers, Humberts Leisure, Eurocash, Nielson Active Holidays, Hove Business Association, Forfars, Ncsoft, Phlorum, University of Brighton, University of Sussex, NCP, Lanes Business Network, Goldmews, Animal House, Cambridge Residential.

Numbers are limited so book now to avoid disappointment.