Solutions and innovations will drive us forward on net zero

Entrepreneur and small business champion Ian O’Donnell, MBE, is a natural problem solver with a passion for innovation, tackling challenges, and finding real-world solutions.

Ian joined us on Episode 21 of The Decarbonisation Dialogue, the Salix podcast, to share his views on how small businesses can navigate the road to net zero - and why their voice is vital in shaping government policy.

Co-opted to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Board in March 2023, Ian has been an active volunteer for more than a decade. He now serves as Deputy Chair of UK Policy, leading the FSB’s work on net zero, and regularly engages with policymakers and decision-makers to champion small business needs.

A business owner since his school days, Ian founded a creative design and marketing agency, later becoming a non-executive director and business growth consultant for other SMEs. He also lectures at Coventry University as Entrepreneur in Residence and Teaching Fellow, focusing on entrepreneurship, innovation, and marketing.

In recognition of his work supporting the economy and community, Ian was awarded an MBE in the 2017 Birthday Honours list.

For Ian, net zero is a conversation small business cannot afford to ignore. A recent FSB survey as part of its New Growth report, revealed that:

• 51% of small businesses consider sustainability a high priority.
• Two-thirds believe government should make it a high priority.
• Yet, fewer than 25% believe they will be able to make the full transition by 2050.

One of the greatest barriers? Finance for small business - and this could be a key barrier to transition, says Ian.

“We all want sustainable business. We all want affordable energy for our business.

“Many businesses have already done the small things like switching to LED light bulbs, for example,” Ian said. “As inevitably with a journey like this, you move from the easy things to the harder things. 

“We’re now on the harder things, like the greater access to capital to implement and how do we make sure that small businesses have the right finance, the right skills and the right knowledge, and the capability to make the transition.”

Ian is keen to stress that it isn’t only government that needs to act. Consumers also play a powerful role – and we must be honest about cost.

“If we want to have local café to go to, then we have to be prepared to pay a bit more for that cafe, so we’re not travelling, we can walk there, they are providing us with the locally sourced ingredients. 

“Are we prepared to pay a bit more as consumers for that and to support and encourage that small business in delivering, that rather than saying, I can get that cheaper at a big brand name down the road and abandoning that small business.”

Ian encourages businesses to start with simple, tangible steps:

• Review energy bills: identify where consumption can be reduced.
• Upgrade equipment: ensure IT, lighting, and appliances are efficient.
• Build a culture of efficiency: engage staff in energy-saving practices.
• Switch suppliers: look at providers who offer clean, renewable energy.

But he also recognises the structural challenges: many SMEs rent their premises, limiting options for installing solar panels or other major upgrades. Collaboration between landlords, government, and businesses will be essential.

Ian’s passion for sustainability has grown over time. Once a self-confessed “petrol head,” he has shifted to a more sustainable lifestyle, with cycling now central to how he travels and enjoys the outdoors.

“Cycling saved me money, improved my health, and got me places faster in the city,” he says. “Having children changed my mindset - about leaving the planet in a better place.”

And true to his entrepreneurial spirit, Ian is already working on his next idea: a sustainable family holiday venture, helping others enjoy low-carbon travel experiences.

For now, Ian remains focused on his mission: helping small businesses thrive while guiding the UK toward its 2050 net zero goal. His message is clear, sustainability is not just about environmental responsibility, but about building resilient, future-ready businesses that will last for generations.

Let us know what you think of The Decarbonisation Dialogue. If you have ideas for guests or other podcast suggestions, please contact us at podcast [email protected]

We’d love to know what you think.

All episodes are available for streaming or download from your preferred podcast platform including Apple, Amazon and Spotify. The recordings are also available from our website.