Reviewing accounts 'can help businesses become more sustainable'

Comparing business bank accounts could help firms to not only save money but be kinder to the planet.

Businesses looking to improve their environmental credentials may not only want to lend thought to recycling schemes and low-energy lightbulbs, but to also consider their UK accounts.

Research by Abbey and Alliance & Leicester Business Banking shows many small firms are keen on reducing their impact on the environment, with 64 per cent encouraging their staff to use recycled paper.

It was also revealed that an average of £1,000 is being spent on green measures.

However, Paula Ickinger, head of business banking marketing for Abbey and Alliance & Leicester, claims that upfront cost of such steps puts many off from taking more action.

"Businesses could help cover the cost of being more environmentally sound by saving money in other ways, such as reviewing regular costs like utilities and bank charges," she states.

Ms Ickinger points out that by taking the time to compare accounts and switch to a more competitive deal, businesses can find that they "save thousands of pounds each year, which can then be put to better use".

Such comments come as research from the Confederation of British Industry revealed around half of businesses questioned are looking to reduce their use of bank debt.