Essex County Council is helping with free expert advice to businesses looking to increase their sustainability and green credentials.

The council has contracted Tiptree-based MKR Consulting to provide its free one-to-one Lean2Green sessions to help businesses cut their corporate carbon footprint.

These sessions are available to 20 small and medium businesses in the Braintree and Uttlesford districts.

Lean2Green aims to help businesses obtain a net-zero status by arranging action plans.

The term net-zero is when a company completely reduces the greenhouse gas emissions that it produces, by implanting methods to absorb its carbon dioxide output.

Follow up calls are then provided in the Lean2Green program at three and six-month intervals, in effort to help the businesses remain on track.

Braintree District Council cabinet member for economic growth and inward investment Frankie Ricci is delighted with the offering.

He said: “As it becomes ever more crucial for businesses to work sustainably, this is a fantastic opportunity for local enterprises to access expert guidance.

“At Braintree District Council, we are committed to growing the green economy and that includes everyone. I would encourage business owners to take up this offer.”

To qualify, businesses must be based in the Braintree or Uttlesford district, have been operating for at least 18 months and have three or more employees.

To apply head to tinyurl.com/su453tax.