Surrey's Network of Networks: breaking down silos

How the Sustainable Business Network is using collaboration to accelerate Surrey's journey to net zero by 2030.

When we started the Sustainable Business Network (SBN), we had a bold vision to create:

"a collaborative movement of Surrey businesses on track to achieving net zero targets by 2030." 

Over the past few years we have been cheered by the expansion of sustainable business across the county, but we realised something crucial; there was loads of great work being missed and duplicated by all the amazing networks in Surrey. We were making things harder for ourselves. 

The most impactful sustainability initiatives happen when businesses, networks, and organisations work together, not in separate silos. 

That's why SBN decided to establish our "Network of Networks" approach, aiming to bring these different Surrey business communities together and tackle the climate challenge in collaboration.

Beyond the Eco-Bubble: Meeting Businesses Where They Are

Since we formed the SBN, we discovered three key barriers preventing local businesses from embracing sustainability again and again:

• Lack of knowledge about sustainability issues and practical solutions

• Limited time to fully commit to sustainability goals

• Financial constraints and uncertainty about the scale of change required

But, it was also very clear: businesses don't need another sustainability lecture. They need practical solutions, trusted guidance, and peer support; delivered through the networks they already know and trust.

The Power of Connection: Our Three-Pillar Approach

Our Network of Networks strategy rests on three foundational pillars:

1. Convene - Bringing Everyone Together

Our aim is to foster collaboration between businesses, existing business networks, and academic institutions across Surrey. 

With our 3rd quarterly meeting almost upon us, we are bringing together key sustainability actors, including Surrey County Council, Surrey Events Professionals, representatives of climate and economic development officers from the Districts and Boroughs of Surrey, Surrey Hills Enterprises, Surrey Wildlife Trust, Surrey Chambers and Business Surrey.

This diverse group represents thousands of Surrey businesses across sectors, from local councils shaping policy to wildlife organisations and events professionals bringing their sector-specific insights. Each partner brings unique strengths, audiences, and insights that we hope will amplify our collective impact far beyond what any single organisation could achieve alone.

The result? Streamlined messaging, reduced duplication, and a unified approach to supporting Surrey businesses.

2. Champion - Showcasing Success Stories

As part of bringing these networks together, we want to create relatable case studies from Surrey businesses that demonstrate real-world sustainability innovation. These aren't abstract concepts; they're practical examples from your neighbours and competitors, proving that sustainable practices are both achievable and profitable.

The impact? Social norming that makes sustainability feel accessible rather than overwhelming.

3. Confidence-Building - Creating Clear Pathways

Through our network partnerships, we want to link you with practical sustainability expertise. Whether it's signposting funding opportunities, connecting businesses with solution providers, or facilitating peer-to-peer learning, we want to remove the guesswork from implementing real, sustainable action.

The Multiplier Effect: Why a Network of Networks?

Traditional outreach reaches businesses one at a time. We are really proud of the work we have done over the last few year, but wanted to give ourselves focus on our scope, while maximising impact. Working with pre-existing networks helps this; reaching entire networks simultaneously, creating a multiplier effect that accelerates adoption across Surrey's business community.

When a local business network integrates sustainability into its regular programming, every member benefits. So we want to help network leaders become sustainability champions within their own communities. We are acting as a facilitator between networks, aiming to break down the artificial barriers that have historically slowed progress.

This isn't just about creating another initiative, the exact opposite; by working through existing trusted relationships and networks, we hope to build something more powerful than the sum of its parts.

Join the Movement

The climate challenge is a big thing to face, and can be daunting for any individual organisation looking to tackle. But when networks collaborate, when businesses support each other, and when academic expertise meets practical application, real change becomes possible.

If you're part of a Surrey business network or organisation, we'd love to explore how we can work together. Because the fastest path to net zero isn't by doing it on your own, it's by being part of a collaborative movement.

Ready to connect your network with ours? Contact the SBN team to learn more about our Network of Networks approach and how your network can be part of Surrey's sustainability transformation.