Accelerating the decarbonisation of SMEs: a case study of the UK restaurant sector

Thesis

The aggregate emissions of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are significant, especially for certain sectors in the UK, such as the restaurant sector. However, few studies have considered how changing the practices of SMEs can reduce emissions. This study addresses this by using Social Practice Theory (SPT) to analyse interview responses with SMEs in the restaurant sector and, together with carbon footprint assessments for four SME restaurants, generates new insights into the challenges and opportunities for SME decarbonisation. In addition, accelerating decarbonisation is required to meet Net Zero targets, so this study uses interviews with hospitality sector actors to understand how the decarbonisation of SME restaurants is governed by place-based and sector-base actors. Finally, it considers both the SPT and governance findings to reflect on how governance actors should address the challenges and opportunities for decarbonisation, concluding that practices must be considered by governance actors when implementing decarbonisation initiatives.

Authors: Hardy-Jones, B

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-gwgykyak1
• Type of award: MSc taught course
• Level of award: Masters
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: small business; restaurants; social practice theory; SMEs
• Subjects: Business; Geography; Sociology