Research conducted by Smart Energy GB shows that one in five small businesses has re-invested all their profits to stay afloat this year. The cost-of-living crisis, energy price hikes, and increased supplier costs have eaten into margins, forcing businesses to put sustainability plans on hold. However, almost half of the businesses believe that eco-consciousness leads to success. Victoria Bacon of Smart Energy GB, said: “The economic climate has put Britain's small businesses under a huge amount of pressure, so it's understandable that they're focusing on the essentials of running their business. But taking steps to reduce your environmental impact often delivers real cost savings too."