MORE than 100 exhibitors at a major event will aim to show businesses how they can save money and avoid costly penalties at the same time as improving the environment.

Green Business Dorset and the Southern Sustainability Partnership are putting on the Big Green Event on Tuesday, September 20, 9.30am-6.30pm at the Hilton Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

They say the event will show how a simple shift in mindset can reduce running costs and environmental impact, tackle difficult issues such as parking and attract the best staff.

Lynda Daniels of Green Business Dorset said: “The region has badly needed a dedicated event like this – one that puts the green agenda where it should be, both in terms of the help our organisations require and also because of how much it contributes to the local and national economy.

“No business can afford to ignore the issue of the green agenda, whether they’re tendering for businesses, whether they’re growing so that legislation will be coming their way – or whether maybe they’re struggling with issues such as end-of-life for production equipment and what do they do with it. They will get financially penalised in some cases if they don’t do that properly.”

She said being kinder to the environment often meant cost savings and could help with recruitment.

“Younger people expect to work for a business which is more caring to the environment and has a corporate social responsibility,” she added.

Highlights of the event, which is free with free parking, will include a “circular economy” conference and a host of workshops and events.

There will be opportunities to try a FreeGo Electric Bike and find out about hybrid vehicles.

There will also be a chance to try a Tesla, billed as the world’s most advanced electronic vehicle. A wholly electric vehicle with access to a global network of superchargers, its Model S has a range of up to 346 miles and can reach 60mph in 2.8 seconds.

Keynote speakers at the event will include a representative of Google.

Lee Butler, director Town & Country Communications in Dorset, is among the exhibitors he said: “We understand the concept of environmental management and its ability to reduce costs.

“Attending this event will give you a better insight into how business is adopting a more green and efficient approach and how this could be beneficial to business of all sizes.”

Keynote speaker Simon Cripps, chief executive of Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “Natural Capital is a way to measure how any business can benefit the environment. Companies that do the right thing by looking after local communities and the local environment need to plan, resource and manage the good work they do as well as show the benefits in their bottom line. My presentation will show them how to do just that.”

Details are at thebiggreenevent.co.uk