A DEADLINE is fast approaching for Bolton's small to medium sized businesses to sign up for a programme to reduce their carbon footprint.

Firms interested in taking part in the 'Journey to Net Zero' initiative, hosted by the GC Business Growth Hub, have until the end of tomorrow, Monday, to get involved.

Supporters say nearly 50 firms have already benefitted from the fully-funded programme and hub officials are calling on others to make the same pledge and cut their emissions.

Under the programme, businesses take part in 10 different webinars, study material and receive one-to-one advice to help them reduce operating costs, minimise risk and capitalise on new opportunities.

Jenny Heil, business development manager at Smith Goodfellow PR, a firm which has taken part in the past, said: “Each session is informative, providing an in-depth and rigorous exploration of the challenges and wider context.

“Where the programme really shines is in the practical tools and strategies it is providing within a realistic framework, enabling small businesses like ours to be proactive in making improvements without being over ambitious.”

Kevin Lambert, resource efficiency lead at the hub, said: “COP26 is just around the corner and it marks a milestone moment in our battle against climate change. We are at a critical point for our planet, and to safeguard its future we must all act now and we need our business community to play its part."