Bracknell BID welcomed businesses from across the Southern and Western Business Areas to its latest Eco Themed Meet Your Neighbour event on the 1st of July, providing an opportunity for organisations to connect, share best practice and learn more about sustainability initiatives available across the borough.
The event featured a presentation from Kipp Harden, Asset Manager at Maxis, who spoke about the sustainability credentials of the Maxis buildings and the ongoing initiatives being delivered to support both environmental performance and workplace wellbeing. Attendees also learned about Frasers Property’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and how sustainability is being embedded across its portfolio.
Followed by Bracknell BID Manager Rory Lewis, who highlighted the efforts Bracknell BID are making to improve sustainability and reduce carbon emissions. The presentation outlined both past and upcoming initiatives from volunteer days, free shuttle bus and bicycle scheme and much more. He explained how these projects align with the BID’s current business plan and are shaped by Objective 2. He also explained that the projects the BID undertakes rely on feedback from businesses within the Southern and Western Business area and invited ideas from those in attendance.
A joint presentation was also delivered by Callum Mooney, Climate and Energy Engagement Officer at Bracknell Forest Council, Sebastian Wright, Climate Strategy Team Leader at Bracknell Forest Council, and Graham Roberts, Director at Ethical Reading. The session highlighted a range of new support services available to local businesses, including climate change risk assessments, climate action planning, BREEAM consultancy and carbon literacy support, helping organisations better understand and respond to climate-related challenges.
The event also encouraged attendees to share their views on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), supporting the development of a new initiative that will connect businesses wishing to contribute to their local community with projects seeking support.
This event directly supported two key priorities identified in the Bracknell BID 2025-2030 Business Plan:
Objective 1 – Business Growth and Investment
The BID aims to support businesses to grow and develop by encouraging collaboration, networking and stronger relationships between organisations. Meet Your Neighbour events provide valuable opportunities for businesses to connect, share knowledge and access support that can help them thrive.
Objective 2 – Carbon Reduction and Sustainability
A core focus of the event was helping businesses understand sustainability opportunities, reduce environmental impacts and access specialist expertise relating to climate action and sustainable working practices. This aligns directly with the BID’s objective of supporting sustainable growth through carbon reduction policies and environmental best practice.
Bracknell BID would like to thank all speakers and attendees for contributing to a productive and engaging discussion, and for helping to build a more connected and sustainable business community. As well as Maxis who kindly hosted the event and provided catering for all.
