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Growth in the RPG Audit team

Business

Sam Allcock

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23/08/2023

RPG Chartered Accountants have strengthened their audit team with the addition of three new auditors.

Maria Khan joined the RPG team earlier in the year and has recently been joined by Naomi Chan and Ben Kershaw, all in the position of Audit Lead. Maria, Naomi and Ben are based in Manchester, working within a team of 20, which includes 14 dedicated auditors with audit support from our accountancy team as required. There are over 75 people based at RPG’s
Manchester office.

Maria lives in south Manchester and studied for her degree in Accountancy & Finance while working with a small firm of accountants. Maria then embarked upon the graduate programme with a national firm of accountants before joining RPG.

Naomi lives locally but recently moved here from Hong Kong where she worked with an international audit firm. She has a degree in Accountancy. Ben went to Hulme Grammar School in Oldham and subsequently gained 4 years’ experience working in the Manchester office of a global firm of accountants, at the same time studying for his ACA examinations.
“We are delighted to welcome our three latest team members”, explained Martin Chatten, Group Board Director and Head of Audit at RPG Chartered Accountants.

“We are seeing a huge demand for our audit services and coupled with our overall desire to continue to grow and develop the firm, it is essential that we continue to expand our team.
“However it is important that we recruit the best so we are very pleased to welcome Maria, Naomi and Ben who demonstrate excellent technical skills, team work and people skills, and will be invaluable additions to our team. We will also be welcoming three new trainees at the start of September. “In addition I am very pleased to announce that Phil Houghton has been promoted to the position of Assistant Audit Manager. Phil joined the RPG audit team in 2018 and during that time has completed his professional qualifications and made a massive contribution the team, fully meriting this promotion.”

If you would find out about career opportunities at RPG Chartered Accountants please email info@rpg.co.uk or see our recruitment page Recruitment – RPG Chartered Accountants

YLEM Energy partners with Brown-Forman on 630kW solar project

Sam Allcock

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23/08/2023

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YLEM Energy partners with Brown-Forman on 630kW solar project

YLEM Energy has partnered with Brown-Forman, the producer of brands such as Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey and Benriach Scotch Whisky, to develop a 630kW solar array that will enable them to deliver 516,000 KWp of clean, renewable energy each year at Benriach Bond, Newbridge, Edinburgh.

The partnership will support Brown-Forman in its objective of sourcing 100 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The distillery is committed to the Scotch Whisky Association’s “Race to Zero” pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. The partnership with YLEM Energy is expected to offset 120 tonnes of CO2 each year.

The 630kWp solar system will be part of YLEM Energy’s Xchange product. Launched in April 2023, Xchange will allow Brown-Forman to export excess renewable energy generated at its Benriach Bond to the National Grid and reduce its onsite energy costs.

Andy Battjes, Director, Global Environmental Sustainability at Brown-Forman stated: “As a member of RE100, Brown-Forman is committed to supporting the development of new sources of renewable electricity in order to reach our goal of 100% renewable electricity by 2030. Our partnership with YLEM to install a new rooftop solar system at our Newbridge bottling facility is the latest example of turning our commitment into action.”

Ian Gadsby, Managing Director of YLEM Energy said: “We’re delighted to be working with Brown-Forman to help them achieve their sustainability goals and play a role in tackling climate change.”

“The recent energy crisis has seen many businesses diversify their energy supply while ensuring it comes from renewable sources. As part of YLEM’s Xchange product, Brown-Forman can be confident they will be using renewable energy, while reducing their energy bills by exporting any excess generation to the National Grid.”

Kieran McGuire, Brown-Forman’s European Environment Health and Safety Manager said: “This exciting solar project at our Newbridge Bottling Plant really underpins Brown-Forman’s overall sustainability targets and those of the Scotch Whisky Association. By partnering with YLEM Energy on this project, we have been able to draw on their wealth of expertise in this field and we look forward to their delivery of this project in the near future.”

The solar array at Benriach Bond at Newbridge, Edinburgh is the first project between YLEM Energy and Brown-Forman.

To find out more about YLEM Energy visit www.YLEMEnergy.com.

To find out more about Brown-Forman’s sustainability strategy and goals visit www.brown-forman.com/environmental-sustainability

Mystery of Rising Bills Solved: 80% of UK Households Slash Energy Costs with Power Flushing!

Energy

Danielle Trigg

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22/08/2023

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Mystery of Rising Bills Solved: 80% of UK Households Slash Energy Costs with Power Flushing!

Experiencing an inexplicable rise in your energy bills? You’re not alone. A substantial number of UK households have faced similar concerns. But there’s good news on the horizon. A significant 80% of UK households have found a remarkable solution – power flushing their heating systems! This article delves into the mechanics of power flushing, its myriad benefits, and why you should consider contacting a reputable power flush company.

What is Power Flushing?

Power flushing is a crucial maintenance procedure for central heating systems in UK homes. Over the years, impurities, sediment, and corrosion can build up in central heating systems, leading to decreased performance and potential malfunctions. Power flushing involves using a high-flow pump and cleansing chemicals to flush out these contaminants, ensuring that the heating system operates optimally.

Signs that your heating system might need power flushing include cold spots on radiators, slow warming, and strange noises. A certified heating engineer should conduct the procedure, which typically takes a day to complete. This process can enhance heat distribution, reduce energy bills, and prolong the life of your boiler and radiators.

Power flushing should be part of your heating system’s regular maintenance routine, especially if you live in an area with hard water. By investing in power flushing, UK homeowners can maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home heating system, ensuring warmth during the colder months.

The Connection Between Sludge Build-Up and Rising Bills

Over time, heating systems naturally accumulate deposits of sludge, rust, and other impurities. These obstructions hinder the free flow of water within the radiators and pipes. Consequently, your boiler has to work harder, consuming more energy to attain the desired warmth.

As these obstructions accumulate, you’ll notice that rooms take longer to heat up, radiators have cold spots, and the boiler often requires resetting. And, without a doubt, the direct aftermath is a steeper energy bill.

The Remarkable Benefits of Power Flushing

Enhanced Efficiency: Once a power flush service clears obstructions from your heating system, the free flow of water is restored. This means your boiler no longer needs to work overtime, leading to decreased energy consumption and lower bills.
Prolonged System Life: Regular maintenance, including power flushing, can extend the lifespan of your heating system. By ensuring that no corrosive elements linger within, you can prevent premature breakdowns and costly replacements.
Consistent Heating: After power flushing, you’ll notice a more uniform heat distribution in your home. No more cold spots or waiting ages for rooms to warm up!

Signs Your Heating System Needs a Power Flush

Power flushing is a vital procedure designed to maintain and enhance the efficiency of central heating systems in UK households. Over time, sludge, rust, and other debris accumulate within the heating system, obstructing water flow and diminishing performance. Power flushing involves using a dedicated pump and specific cleaning solutions to thoroughly clean the system, removing these build-ups and restoring peak performance.

Inconsistent Heating: If you notice that some radiators are hot while others remain cold, it might be due to uneven circulation caused by debris and sludge.
Noisy Radiators and Boiler: Clanging, banging, or unusual noises from your radiators or boiler can indicate sediment buildup.
Cold Spots on Radiators: If you feel cold areas on your radiator, especially at the bottom, it’s a sign that sludge or rust has settled there, hindering the even distribution of heat.
Discoloured Water: When bleeding the radiators, if the water coming out is murky or discoloured, this indicates corrosion and rust in the system.
Frequent Repairs: If your heating system requires regular maintenance or has had multiple breakdowns, it could be due to blockages causing the components to work harder.
Reduced Heating Efficiency: A noticeable increase in the time it takes for your home to warm up may point to reduced efficiency due to internal blockages.
The radiator is Cold at the Bottom: If the radiator is warm at the top but cold at the bottom, it might be due to sediment build-up.
Boiler Overheating or Shutting Off: An accumulation of debris can cause the boiler to overheat or shut off unexpectedly.
Rising Energy Bills: If you notice a sudden spike in your energy bills without a change in usage, it might be because your system is working harder due to inefficiencies.
Age of the System: If it’s been several years since the last power flush or if the system is old, it might benefit from a thorough cleanse.

Why You Need a Professional Power Flush Company

While it might be tempting to attempt power flushing on your own or to hire someone with little experience to save money, it may be risky. A professional power flush company possesses the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure the process is executed seamlessly and safely.

Skilled Analysis: Expert technicians from a power flush company can evaluate the current condition of your heating system and recommend if a power flush is truly required.
Guaranteed Results: By choosing a reputable power flush service, you’re assured of lasting results, which means more significant energy savings in the long run.
Expert Handling: Power flushing involves the use of specific chemicals that need to be managed correctly. Trained technicians ensure that the process is eco-friendly and safe for your heating system.

Also read: How Does Power Flushing Enhance the Performance of Your Heating System?

Making the Smart Choice

With a staggering 80% of UK households turning to power flush heating system solutions, it’s evident that this method offers tangible benefits. By investing in a professional power flush service, homeowners not only save on monthly bills but also foster a more sustainable and eco-friendly living environment.

If you’re noticing escalating energy costs and believe your heating system is the culprit, now’s the time to act. Reach out to a credible power flush company, and equip yourself with a comprehensive solution to combat those soaring bills. Remember, regular maintenance, including power flushing, can make a world of difference when it comes to the longevity and efficiency of your heating system. Don’t let sludge and rust drain your pocket. Make the informed choice today!

In conclusion, prioritising the well-being and efficiency of your home’s central heating system is a prudent choice for any UK homeowner. Power flushing, a cornerstone service provided by RY Group, offers a comprehensive solution to address the gradual accumulation of debris and sludge within the system. By entrusting the expertise of RY Group’s certified heating engineers, you ensure a meticulous and effective power flushing process that revitalises your heating system’s performance.

Misconceptions About Accountancy Creating Barriers For Next Generation Of Talent Says Grant Thornton

Blog

Karen Jones

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22/08/2023

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Misconceptions About Accountancy Creating Barriers For Next Generation Of Talent Says Grant Thornton

New research shows that many young people have misconceptions about careers in accountancy which may be creating unnecessary barriers and preventing them from seeing it as an attainable option, limiting the potential future talent pool of the profession.

In the research, leading accountancy firm Grant Thornton UK LLP explores Generation Z’s view of accountancy as a career. Analysing the responses of 2,000 people aged between 16 – 25 in the UK, the study seeks to better understand the attitudes and perceptions towards the accountancy sector of this age group.

The top misconceptions held by Gen Z about accountancy, identified in the research, are:

62% believe you need high grades to become an accountant

57% believe you need to go to university to become an accountant

57% think training for accountancy qualifications is expensive

53% think accountants sit at desks all day

Outdated or limited careers advice impacting understanding

The level of misunderstanding about the profession identified by the research may be explained by the finding that two thirds (65%) of young people have never received careers advice about accountancy.

Those that have are most likely to have received it at school or college, however the type of school attended affects how much information young people receive. Those attending private schools are 20% more likely to have received careers advice about accountancy than those from comprehensive schools. Private school students are also more likely to know an accountant than those attending comprehensive schools (52% vs 43%).

Social media and online research are the next most popular ways to source information about accountancy for Gen Z. Those from lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to find information in this way, they are also less likely to receive advice about the profession from a family member or friend.

Richard Waite, People and Culture Director at Grant Thornton UK LLP, said:

“There are now so many different routes available for young people considering joining the accountancy profession, whether that is starting on an apprenticeship straight from school, undertaking an internship or placement, or following the traditional graduate route. But it’s clear that there remain significant, and detrimental, misconceptions about access to and working in the accountancy profession.

“It’s therefore vital that employers, such as Grant Thornton, take action to help bridge that gap so we do not miss out on attracting the next generation of new and diverse talent to the sector. Employers need to take the time to actively educate young people, to reach out and work with schools in target areas, such as social mobility cold spots, to tackle some of these false barriers and provide much needed advice and insight to those considering the next step in their lives.”

The attainability gap

The research finds that the school you attended has a significant impact on whether you view accountancy as an attainable career. Private school attendees are 25% more likely to believe that a career in accountancy is attainable than those from comprehensive schools.

Gender is also found to impact young people’s perceptions of attainability. Men are 13% more likely to believe that a career in accountancy is attainable than women. Non-binary people are less likely than men or women to feel a career in accountancy is possible.

Overall, half of respondents believe that accountancy is an attainable career for them, while one in four (24%) disagreed. Of those who disagreed, one third attributed it to not knowing enough about the profession to consider it for a career.

Carl Williams, Managing Partner at Grant Thornton UK LLP in the North West, said:

“It’s clear that the accountancy profession needs to work harder to bust historic misconceptions. There remain clear misunderstandings about not only the routes to entry but also the scope of the career on offer, which may be preventing many from considering it as an option.

“Both the people and the careers available within accountancy are now more varied and diverse than ever before, with opportunities for international travel, varied work across different sectors and specialities and long-term career prospects. It’s evident that we need to showcase this more prominently and shine a light on the reality of the working accountancy world and the broad and rewarding career path it can offer.

“The school you attend, your background or gender should not dictate your access to information or the career path you follow yet our research shows that these factors contribute to the level of exposure to and understanding that a young person may have of the profession.

“Volunteering our time, through established initiatives such as Access Accountancy, RISE and our own firm’s Schools Enterprise Programme, to build confidence and knowledge with a wider range of young people will encourage a better understanding of the sector. Without a concerted effort to tackle these lingering misconceptions, we risk, inadvertently, missing out on a huge diverse pool of untapped talent.”

Citwell Group pursues its growth strategy internationally with a new office in Boston

Business

Sam Allcock

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22/08/2023

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Citwell Group pursues its growth strategy internationally with a new office in Boston

One of Europe’s leading supply chain and operations consultancies, Citwell Group is opening an office in Boston. A strategic move aiming to consolidate its response to the needs of French, American and international customers and confirm its position in the US market. This move is in line with the firm’s development plan, which aims to achieve international sales growth up to €15 million by 2028.
CITWELL US: RAPID MARKET GROWTH

The Citwell Group is in direct competition with high-profile consulting firms already established in the United States. If we want to increase our chances of winning global contracts with them,” explains Citwell President Laurent Penard, “we need to expand internationally. The American market is by far the most important for consulting services, and the easiest for Citwell to access”. Indeed, the group already has its first customers in the US, a multicultural team of 7 employees, and a differentiating offering that should rapidly accelerate its growth in this market.
By 2028, the Citwell US office will reach the critical size of 40 employees, representing 20% of Group sales.

HMG Paints launch cross-linked water based floor paint

Business

Sam Allcock

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22/08/2023

0

HMG Paints launch cross-linked water based floor paint

HMG Paints, the Manchester based independent paint manufacturer, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest innovation, HydroPro Floor Paint. This cutting-edge water-based floor paint is designed to transform floor finishing with its cross-linking formulation that ensures exceptional durability and a superior finish for both internal and external applications.

HydroPro Floor Paint boasts a unique formula that combines the strength of cross-linking technology with the convenience of water-based application. This innovation results in a tough, hard-wearing mid-sheen finish that’s ideal for a variety of spaces, from domestic garages and workshops to light-industrial environments. Once cured, HydroPro Floor Paint becomes resistant to oils, grease, and light industrial traffic, providing a long-lasting solution for a number of areas.

“We’re very excited by the launch of our new HydroPro Floor Paint with its superior drying and recoat times, this offers so many possibilities for the professional decorator and maintenance teams. A real alternative for solvent based floor paints,” commented James Burton of HMG Paints. “This is the first product that is part of a new portfolio we’ve been putting together for the professional decorator and light industrial market and we’re excited to reveal even more in the coming months.”

One of the standout features of HydroPro Floor Paint is its remarkable fast drying times, allowing professionals to apply multiple coats within a single day. This not only expedites the painting process but also minimizes downtime, enabling quicker project completion. With HydroPro, efficiency and quality go hand in hand.

Key Advantages of HydroPro Floor Paint:

Cross-linking Formulation: The cross-linking technology in HydroPro ensures exceptional adhesion and durability, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
Smooth Finish: HydroPro Floor Paint leaves behind a flawless finish that enhances the aesthetics of any space.
Low Odour/VOC: Say goodbye to strong paint odours. HydroPro’s low odour and VOC content make it a preferable choice for enclosed environments.
Quick Drying: HydroPro’s rapid drying times mean less waiting and more productivity.
Stain Resistant: The paint’s resilience extends to its resistance and has been tested against everything from Diesel and engine oils to wine and coffee.

Available in a range of stock colours including Light Grey, Mid Grey, Dark Grey, Yellow, Tile Red, and Mid Blue. HydroPro Floor Paint lets you tailor the look of your floors to your specific preferences. Each colour is available in a convenient 5-litre size, ensuring you have ample coverage for your projects.

HMG Paints’ HydroPro Floor Paint redefines the standard for floor finishes, offering a blend of durability, efficiency, and aesthetics. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, HydroPro is the ultimate choice for achieving stunning and enduring floor surfaces.

HydroPro Floor Paint is available directly from HMG via shop.hmgpaint.com or via their ever-expanding network of specifically chosen distributors. All of HMG Paints portfolio is Made in Britain certified and is produced entirely at its Riverside Works factory in Manchester. HMG has also launched a new Product Tester campaign where users can sign up to get early access to new HMG products you can sign up via.: https://shop.hmgpaint.com/product-tester-sign-up-page.

If you require further information on the press release, please contact:
Stephen Dyson
HMG Paints Communications
sdyson@hmgpaint.com
0161 205 7631

HMG Paints Ltd is the UK’s leading independent Paint Manufacturer and a proud, family-owned business situated in Manchester. Working alongside new and long-term customers, HMG are committed to sustainability, innovation and customer satisfaction. With over 90 years’ experience in developing innovative coatings, HMG’s portfolio of wet paint and aerosols cover virtually every type of surface imaginable across a whole host of industries including industrial, commercial vehicle, decorative, automotive, protective coatings, defence, toll manufacturing, wood finish and arts & craft. HMG have a drive to set the standards for the industry not just meet them.

For more information, please visit www.hmgpaint.com or visit www.shop.hmgpaint.com to discover decorative paint and inspiration.

Connect with HMG Paints on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn

The Chameleon Agency Booms With 1000% Year On Year Growth, Thanks To A Raft Of New Business Wins

Business

Sam Allcock

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22/08/2023

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The Chameleon Agency Booms With 1000% Year On Year Growth, Thanks To A Raft Of New Business Wins

The Chameleon Agency has today announced they have had a bumper 2023 with 1000% business growth from August 2022 to August 2023. The agency’s success is thanks to winning significant new clients and producing events for leading brands from all sectors, working with Metsä Group, Boohoo Group, Teamwork, Three, Convatec, GBG and a project for The Trafford Centre.

The creative agency has been appointed by telecoms giant Three following a three way pitch. The retained contract is to create and produce the business’ internal events calendar, including employee engagement events, family events and supplier events for both their Glasgow and Reading headquarters.

Manchester’s world renowned shopping and leisure destination, The Trafford Centre has also appointed Chameleon to produce their 25 year consumer anniversary party in September 2023, this will include top entertainment acts and a fantastic show. Chameleon has also been appointed by project management platform, Teamwork.com to produce their internal and client-facing events.

Following on from project work in 2022 Chameleon continues to work with Metsä Group, Convatec and GBG.

Commenting on the agency’s new business success, The Chameleon Agency, Founder and Executive Producer, Joe Gilliver said: “We are thrilled to have won this raft of new business, with excellent clients. We’ve already hit the ground running with Three and produced their summer schedule including Hawaiian Luau employee events and fun beach family events in Glasgow and Reading and an educational supplier event for their technology team. We are currently busy helping with the planning of the Trafford Centre’s 25 year anniversary, with some fantastic acts. 2023 has seen us deliver some very cool projects from fashion shows for Boohoo, through to award shows for the Metsä Tissue. I can not lie, it’s been a tough few years, but I am confident that Chameleon is now accelerating and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds. “

About The Chameleon Agency:

The Chameleon Agency is an agile creative events agency that enables businesses to connect and engage with their employees and external audience. Specialising in purposeful events The Chameleon Agency enables teams to feel they belong to an organisation. Founded by Joe Gilliver, the trusted global team manages resources to make campaigns cost effective. Based in Manchester, The Chameleon Agency include Three, Convatec, Manchester Tech Festival, Boohoo Group, Paramount, Metsä Group and Total Fitness as clients.

Building sector must play its part in reducing CO2 emissions

Sam Allcock

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22/08/2023

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Building sector must play its part in reducing CO2 emissions

Much more serious consideration must be given to cutting whole-life CO2 emissions of buildings – from the production and transport of materials to the disposal of old properties – if the construction industry’s carbon footprint is to be substantially reduced, University of Manchester academics have warned.

In an article based on research conducted in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Judy Too and Obuks Ejohwomu reveal that the building sector is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 40% of global emissions, with the UK building sector responsible for approximately 25% of domestic emissions.

They write: “At a tipping point for global action on climate change, this is truly building a house on sand.”

In their piece, published by the University’s policy engagement unit Policy@Manchester, Ms Too and Dr Ejohwomu propose three areas where policymakers can take positive action to reduce emissions in buildings.

First, they argue that manufacturers should be mandated to produce Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for all materials, adding: “This will build the necessary knowledge infrastructure, while increasing awareness of the embodied carbon content of building materials.” Acknowledging that the market may not yet be properly prepared to meet the necessary requirements “due to significant gaps in primary data,” they suggest a series of graduated steps including the short-term use of industry wide EPDs with product specific EPDs becoming mandatory within two years.

Second, based on their research, the University of Manchester academics believe that end-of-life treatment of materials and buildings is often overlooked. They advocate the update of building code regulations to include considerations for whole-life carbon impacts. Ms Too and Dr Ejohwomu write: “This update will mandate whole-building Life Cycle Assessment, shifting the focus from prescriptive emission limits to evaluating and optimising the overall performance of the building in terms of its environmental impact.”

Third, they argue for the introduction of “project-level carbon budgets based on predefined boundaries and benchmarks aligned with sectoral carbon limits” with a target time of three to five years. They explain: “These limits establish precise emission targets that building projects must meet, with enforcement mechanisms such as audits and monitoring systems in place to ensure compliance. By implementing such limits, projects are held accountable for their emission levels over the building’s lifecycle, thereby driving carbon reduction within the building sector.”

Summing up how their research can enable the building sector to reduce CO2 emissions, Ms Too and Dr Ejohwomu conclude: “By acting on these recommendations, policymakers can lead a combined effort to balance environmental goals with economic considerations. To not do so and continue to ignore the whole-life emissions of buildings risks locking-in unsustainable buildings for decades.”

Built on sand: the need for new environmental standards in the construction industry is available to read on the Policy@Manchester website.

Major Investor Coalition Calls on G20 to Revise Agricultural Subsidies

Business

Sam Allcock

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22/08/2023

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Major Investor Coalition Calls on G20 to Revise Agricultural Subsidies

A major collaborative investor network group has urged the wealthier countries from the G20 group to align agricultural subsidies with their climate goals by the end of the decade.

FAIRR, a group launched in 2016 composed of 32 investors managing around £5.7 trillion in assets, including Britain’s largest asset manager Legal & General Investment Managers and the fund arm of BNP Paribas, announces their first ever call to the wealthier countries’ finance chiefs prior to the G20 summit set to take place in India next month.

The intervention follows a smaller request to the European Union in 2021, amid concerns about the risks to investment portfolios of inaction, and comes following a UN report which revealed that 87 per cent of the $540 billion in total annual subsidies to agricultural producers included measures that were potentially harmful to nature and human health, and price distorting.

A landmark UK Government report, the Dasgupta Review, also found that subsidies caused $4-$6 trillion in damage to nature each year. At COP15 in December last year, a global deal was struck to tackle the issue and preserve biodiversity, including the reform of subsidies.

Helena Wright, policy director at the FAIRR Initiative, noted the importance of richer countries acting urgently.

To address the issue further, FAIRR called for governments to link their financial support to the sector with their environmental obligations, including the Paris Agreement on climate change and the pledge to protect biodiversity.

Laimonas Noreika, CEO of co-founder of HeavyFinance, commented: “As we look ahead to COP28 and the global roadmap for the food supply chain, it’s vital to see such a collaboration of major influential bodies advocate for aligning agricultural subsidies with climate goals, especially as we know agriculture is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 20 per cent of total emissions.

This unified effort demonstrates a powerful commitment to tackling global challenges through financial influence. As the urgency of climate change and environmental degradation continues to mount, initiatives like these are instrumental in driving much-needed change.”

FAIRR also called on governments to shift incentives to focus on sustainable agriculture; remove subsidies from products such as red meat or dairy, with a high impact on climate-damaging emissions, and increase funding to help workers impacted by the switch.

“The magnitude of this challenge necessitates swift and coordinated action, particularly from wealthier countries who can access the likes of Article 9 funds and provide farmers with services such as Green Loans, the potential of which cannot go undervalued. Green loans, specifically designed to fund environmentally friendly projects, can enable farmers and agricultural businesses to adopt innovative practices that reduce their ecological footprint and Article 9 funds, which promote sustainable and responsible investment, can channel resources towards projects that align with climate and nature goals.” Noreika added.

“By incentivising sustainable agricultural practices and redirecting subsidies away from products with high climate-damaging impacts, we can make a significant shift towards more eco-friendly and resilient food systems.”

“As we progress collaborative efforts like this, which brings together investors, governments, and international organisations, it holds the promise of creating a more resilient and sustainable future for all. This transformation marks a pivotal stride towards addressing pressing climate and environmental challenges.”

FAIRR successfully lobbied the U.N.’s Food and Agriculture Organisation to create a global roadmap for the food sector out to 2050, with its results due to be released at COP28 in November.

A call for G20 nations to disclose targets to reduce agricultural emissions in their national net-zero plans was also picked up by the COP28 hosts two years ago, who are now asking governments to sign a declaration that includes such a pledge.

Engage Crop Solutions cultivates success with loan from Rosebud Finance

Business

Sam Allcock

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22/08/2023

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Engage Crop Solutions cultivates success with loan from Rosebud Finance

Engage Crop Solutions, a pioneering crop-enhancement technology company based in Chorley, announced today that it has secured a six-figure loan from Lancashire County Council’s Rosebud Finance, managed by GC Business Finance.

The funding will be used to support the company’s ambitious plans for growth, including geographical expansion, marketing initiatives, and new product development.

Founded in 2012 by Mark Horner, Andy Aspinall, Mike Panteli, and Peter Blezard, Engage has since emerged as a leading player in the horticulture and agriculture industries. Having all known each other for over 20 years working together at Plant Impact, an AIM listed chemical biostimulant company, they decided to come together to leverage their expertise.

Engage specialises in developing products that facilitate plant growth. It focuses on horticulture, having fostered partnerships with major supermarket chains and establishing a strong presence in the UK Spanish markets. By showcasing the effectiveness of its technology through extensive trials, Engage aims to further expand its international footprint.

In recent years, Engage has broadened its horizons and started addressing wider industry challenges. One of Engage’s key technologies is Aqualatus, a groundbreaking water-saving solution. With agriculture accounting for 70 per cent of natural water usage, preserving this valuable resource is crucial. Aqualatus allows growers to use up to 50% less water, while still maintaining plant health and crop yields.

Engage currently has a global presence, including the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, countries that are investing heavily in creating modern cities. Engage’s technology offers a sustainable approach to watering plants in urban landscapes. In some countries, trials have been conducted on landscapes and football pitches, while in Egypt, the focus has been on integrating the technology into agricultural crops to address limited water availability in inland areas. Engage is also targeting Latin American markets, including Costa Rica, Mexico, and Chile.

As part of its growth strategy, Engage has been closely collaborating with the Department of Business and Trade (DBT), which has supported connections in the Middle East, particularly through trade exhibitions.

Mike Pantelli, founder and director at Engage Crop Solutions, said: “Our product is at the forefront of innovation in the agriculture industry. We are transforming horticulture across the world, and are incredibly proud of our Lancashire roots. Once we were introduced to Rosebud, the help and support we received was enormous. This funding will enable us to accelerate our expansion plans, increasing our reach, and ultimately having a positive impact on the industry.”

Jonathan Nelson, fund manager at Rosebud Finance, said: “Engage’s innovation, ambition and commitment to sustainable practices made them the ideal recipient for funding from Rosebud. The team demonstrated real dedication to solving industry-wide challenges, and are a business that Lancashire can be truly proud of. We look forward to witnessing their continued growth and positive impact in the agricultural sector.”

Councillor Shaun Turner, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change at Lancashire County Council, said: “This news is fantastic for the region, as Engage’s success highlights the innovative and forward-thinking businesses that thrive in Lancashire. It’s cutting-edge horticultural technology not only addresses global industry challenges but also puts Lancashire on the map as a hub for agricultural innovation. We are proud to support the teams journey and excited to see the positive impact they continue to make both locally and globally.”

What is Power Flushing?

The Connection Between Sludge Build-Up and Rising Bills

The Remarkable Benefits of Power Flushing

Signs Your Heating System Needs a Power Flush

Why You Need a Professional Power Flush Company

Making the Smart Choice

Key Advantages of HydroPro Floor Paint:

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