A SCOTTISH Government minister visited East Renfrewshire to discuss the impact that low carbon footprints can have on a company’s bottom line.

Members of the SNP’s Eastwood branch met with Paul Wheelhouse, Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy, at their monthly meeting in Clarkston Halls.

Mr Wheelhouse spoke in detail about Scotland’s energy needs and the importance of a clear focus on renewable and sustainable energy sources to meet the requirements of the future.

SNP councillors were particularly interested in the new ‘cash bank scheme’ for businesses, announced by Zero Waste Scotland and the Scottish Government, to help firms tackle rising energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint.

This could see eligible small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in East Renfrewshire applying for an interest-free, unsecured Scottish Government loan and receiving 30 per cent cashback on the value, up to £10,000.

Councillor Colm Merrick, who represents Giffnock and Thornliebank, said: “Improving energy efficiency is one of the smartest ways that businesses in our area can hold onto their hard-earned profits and make a real difference to the bottom line.”