eBay UK has taken a significant step towards sustainability by introducing the Carbon Academy, a training program designed to help small businesses understand and reduce their carbon footprint.
eBay UK has taken a significant step towards sustainability by introducing the Carbon Academy, a training program designed to help small businesses understand and reduce their carbon footprint.
In collaboration with Climate Partner, eBay aims to bridge the skills gap that hinders SMEs from taking climate action. By offering interactive modules accessible through their online academy, eBay aims to equip its 200,000+ seller community with the knowledge and tools to make a positive environmental impact.
This initiative is part of eBay’s commitment to the circular economy and its ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets.
Reducing Carbon Footprint Made Easy:
The Carbon Academy’s training program offers seven modules that cover a range of topics crucial to carbon reduction and sustainability. These modules include climate strategies for businesses, carbon accounting, carbon reduction, circular economy, carbon offsetting, and communicating climate action. By breaking down complex concepts into manageable and practical steps, the Carbon Academy makes it easier for small businesses to navigate their sustainability journey.
Accessible and Customizable Learning:
eBay recognizes the challenges faced by small businesses in prioritizing sustainability efforts. To address this, the Carbon Academy is available online, allowing sellers to complete the modules at their own pace. The user-friendly format ensures that participants can digest the information effectively.
Data-Driven Insights for Action:
In addition to the training modules, businesses can purchase Climate Partner’s carbon impact report at a discounted rate. This report provides sellers with a detailed breakdown of the environmental impact of their products listed on the eBay marketplace. Armed with this information, businesses can take tangible steps to reduce their carbon emissions. By leveraging data-driven insights, eBay helps its sellers make informed decisions and implement effective strategies to minimize their environmental footprint.
The Power of Small Businesses:
eBay recognizes the significant role that small businesses play in achieving carbon emission reductions. With 99% of businesses in the UK classified as SMEs, their collective efforts can lead to a substantial impact on sustainability. As an enabler, eBay aims to support small businesses by providing the necessary skills and knowledge to take climate action. With over 200,000 small businesses using eBay in the UK alone, the potential for driving change and making a difference is immense.
eBay’s Commitment to Sustainability:
eBay’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond the Carbon Academy. The company has been a pioneer in the circular economy since its inception over 25 years ago. It has set ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aiming to reduce its own emissions by 90% by 2030. The Carbon Academy aligns with eBay’s broader commitment to sustainability and its mission to support small businesses in their journey toward a net-zero future.
Real Success Stories:
To highlight the impact of the Carbon Academy, Ian Montgomery, Managing Director of XS Items, shared his experience as a participant in the pilot program. Montgomery emphasized how the training modules were easy to follow and provided valuable checklists that inspired changes in their sustainability plan. Through the Carbon Academy, XS Items reviewed and improved their operations, including converting to solar energy, switching to LED lighting, and reducing plastic packaging.