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Food businesses who sign up to take part will be offered an 'environmental audit', which will help to give ideas about where measures could be taken to reduce energy use during the manufacturing process – helping to save money as well as save the planet.

A free seminar is being held at Drax Power Station on Friday 24 August, during which local companies can find out more about the help available to support them to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions, which are now widely recognised as contributing to climate change.  The event is being funded through the Selby District Council Leader Plus Programme.

Chair of Selby District Council's Environment Board, Cllr Chris Metcalfe, said:
"One of Selby District Council's key priorities, as of this year, is to champion the reduction in greenhouse gases – in order to do so we must engage with businesses to identify their needs and how we can better support them to reduce their 'carbon footprints'.

"We are keen to work with food businesses in particular because our research has already identified probable opportunities for improved energy efficiency in this sector.  But, of course, reducing carbon emissions is everyone's business and we'll continue to work with all companies and residents to support our aim."

Kate Harvey, the Environmental Coordinator for the York and North Yorkshire Business Environmental Forum, added:
"Doing your bit for the environment is becoming increasingly important and the top of everyone's agenda.  Reducing emissions often also equates to a reduction in costs, so it benefits business two-fold.  The satisfaction in knowing that we have done what we can to be as energy efficient as possible can also be fulfilling in itself."

Any companies wishing to sign-up for the scheme should contact the York and North Yorkshire Business Environmental Forum, FREEPOST YO588, York, YO1 6ZZ or by fax on 01904 554412.  Further details of the seminar event can be found on the Business Environmental Forum website.