Call for chemical firms to check carbon emissions

SUSTAINABILITY consultancy WSP Environment and Energy is calling on chemical companies across the region to act now to meet their obligations for a low carbon economy.

The organisation is working with Runcorn-based Chemicals Northwest to ensure that its members know how to handle changes to legislation – such as the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme which will be implemented on April 1.

This scheme will place legal obligations on participating companies to disclose their energy usage and carbon footprint.

WSP believes that responding to climate change appropriately also brings other financial benefits for companies.

Brad Blundell, WSP’s managing director, said: “The North West is extremely well-placed for driving the switch to alternative fuels in the future.

“But despite this, the region is only just getting to grips with the new climate change regulations.

“For example from April 1 2010 the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme will come into force.

“Very few companies are prepared for these rules and have not yet even thought about putting the appropriate support systems in place.

“The level of awareness in the region is still extremely poor. Five years after the start of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS), companies in the chemicals sector not immediately in the scheme remain confused and some have fallen foul of the scheme regulations – risking financial penalties and reputations.

“Companies must begin preparing themselves now. 

“We have our people seconded into businesses so they can help respond to the April 1 deadline.

 “Companies need to understand that there are significant benefits to be had under the CRC. These new regulations are real opportunities for the companies at the forefront.”

The chemical industry in this region – which is represented by Chemicals Northwest – is the largest chemical producing area in the country and includes 650 companies which employ more than 50,000 people. It contributes £10bn annually to the UK’s economy.