Tees Valley Net Zero and Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) Programmes

Supporting 670 businesses across the Tees Valley 

Overview 

The Tees Valley is home of many businesses, many of which are central to the UK’s industrial base and net zero ambitions. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Tees Valley Net Zero (TVNZ) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) programmes were designed to help local SMEs decarbonise, improve energy efficiency, and prepare for emerging regulations like the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and mandatory carbon reporting. 

Through tailored support—from carbon reduction planning and Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) to EPD certification and CBAM readiness—the programme supported 670 businesses across the region. 

Key Findings:  

Innovation Benefits 

• 82% of businesses said the benefits wouldn’t have happened in the same way without the support 
• 97% of firms have, or will, improve energy efficiency 
• 92% of firms have, or will, reduce their energy costs 
• 80% of respondents have, will, or may develop a decarbonisation plan or EPD certification 

Commercial Benefits 

The programme also helped businesses overcome key barriers to commercial success: 

• 49% → 10% reduction in businesses facing lack of market knowledge 
• 27% → 10% reduction in technological constraints 
• 29% → 4% reduction in risk of failure 
• 27% → 6% reduction in firms lacking collaborators 

Quality of Service 

Client feedback showed extremely high satisfaction levels: 

• 100% of respondents were satisfied with the programme 
• 100% rated the team’s knowledge/expertise as “Excellent” or “Good” 
• 97% rated the relevance/quality of advice as “Excellent” or “Good” 
• 97% rated Net Zero advisor consultations as “Excellent” or “Good” 

Conclusion 

The TVNZ and EPD programmes clearly demonstrated the value of targeted, expert-led sustainability support. By helping businesses reduce emissions, navigate new regulations such as CBAM, and prepare for low-carbon growth, the programme contributed significantly to the Tees Valley’s economic and environmental future.