Can businesses afford to delay sustainability?
19 January 2026
While some organisations still see sustainability as a costly, complex and optional extra, large businesses in Britain and across the globe are under increasing pressure to act decisively on environmental goals. In fact, inaction is becoming a commercially risky business strategy.
Here, we explore why the future belongs to those that embrace sustainability as a core part of their business energy strategy - and how businesses can make greener choices while protecting their bottom line.
Delaying sustainability is a commercial liability
For large British enterprises, delaying action on business sustainability might mean avoiding short-term costs, but does it make commercial sense? Probably not for most organisations, as it may mean missing out on customers, supply chain partners or investors, who care about environmental and sustainable governance (ESG).
In fact, 64% of consumers believe companies and corporations should take the lead in solving environmental and climate issues, with the bar rising particularly quickly among younger consumers. It’s leading to a significant shift in expectations across many industries - one businesses can’t afford to ignore.
Delaying sustainability action is no longer just a missed opportunity. It is becoming a genuine commercial risk. Customer expectations are rising, regulation is evolving quickly, and reporting requirements are becoming increasingly demanding. UK businesses already have a lot to navigate, and the challenge is even greater for those that operate internationally, where multiple regulatory frameworks and differing government targets must be met. Despite the complexity, all of these requirements are moving in the same direction and are designed to encourage faster progress and greater transparency.
3 practical actions for large-scale decarbonisation
For businesses with complex estates and high consumption needs, sustainability demands a comprehensive approach. Here are three practical sustainable energy solutions for business that are driving meaningful change.
1. Driven by data
It is impossible to manage what you cannot measure. For large estates, the first step is often to introduce a sophisticated business energy management system that provides a detailed, real-time view of energy use across every site, that’s why we built Energy360® DataView. With this level of insight, you can identify inefficiencies, reduce waste and present clear evidence to your board to support future investment decisions.
2. Opportunities for on-site generation
Many large scale businesses have unused assets such as warehouse rooftops or extensive parking areas. By investing in commercial solar PV, businesses can generate clean energy on their own sites. This can help to cut carbon emissions and provide long term price certainty, which protects the organisation from future energy market volatility.
3. Embracing EV
Alongside upgrades such as modern HVAC systems and estate wide LED improvements, many businesses are now installing EV charging infrastructure. As fleets move to electric, on-site charging becomes essential for operations and can also support employees who drive electric vehicles.
Breaking down perceived barriers to sustainability
Sustainability journeys stall for many reasons but some are easier to overcome than others. Often, inaction is due to fear and misconceptions which can be easily addressed to get plans on track. Here are a few common examples of barriers to sustainability that many businesses are already breaking down:
The cost myth
The idea that earth-friendly choices are always more expensive is outdated. Some projects may require initial capital investment, but strategic sustainability projects are effective tools for controlling costs and reducing risks. For example, investing in energy management and energy efficiency can help you mitigate the risk of energy price fluctuations and achieve long-term reductions in operating costs.
The key is to set clear KPIs from the start, be transparent about timelines, and provide regular updates.
Fear of greenwashing
Making weak or misleading claims about your sustainability credentials could certainly land you in trouble. And with scrutiny increasing, businesses could possibly be forgiven for failing to act because they’re frightened of making the wrong choices.
But the most important thing is to set practical goals and be honest about your achievements. Clear communication and credible data are all that’s required. If in doubt, do what many large businesses are already doing: use an independent, trusted framework such as Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
Short-term thinking
Progress towards sustainability goals requires long term commitment. Results can sometimes take time, and concerns about quarterly performance or short term financial pressures can slow momentum.
An effective strategy combines quick wins such as moving to a 100% Natural Renewable Electricity tariff with longer term projects that require more planning. Both will deliver commercial value, but some benefits will appear sooner than others.
How British Gas business is supporting your sustainability goals
We’re committed to creating a cleaner planet and helping more businesses reach their sustainability goals by providing easy consumption insights, expert energy management advice and renewable energy solutions. We’re also zero carbon as standard on our electricity supply.
To make sustainable choices even easier, for a limited time we’re offering our Natural Renewable Electricity at no extra cost.
Our 100% renewable business electricity is backed by REGOs from natural renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydro. We’re also one of only three suppliers able to offer renewable energy tariffs with independent verification from the Carbon Trust. It makes Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Scope 2 reporting a little easier for our business energy customers, and means they can reassure their own customers and stakeholders that they’re serious about sustainability.
If that sounds interesting, why not get a quote today?
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