The UK's largest construction firms have offered a glimmer of hope to subcontractors striving to beat the recession. In a shrinking market where competition is fierce, new research from NetRegs shows that 95% of large firms will give preference to subcontractors who can prove their green credentials. The survey shows that during a time of oversupply, large firms with a turnover in excess of £10 million will increasingly use a subcontractor's environmental credentials as a key factor when deciding how to award contracts.

The results also highlighted that 87% of large construction firms have more confidence in subcontractors with proven green credentials: 76% of them citing a reduced risk of prosecution. In addition, over half of respondents think green policies will save subcontractors money - a welcome bonus in these tough economic times. A staggering 93% of construction industry bosses also think that proof of environmental responsibility will move up their firm's agenda over the next two years.

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NetRegs, the free environmental legislation guidance website, has launched a campaign to help smaller construction firms understand the importance of environmental compliance, and to highlight the opportunities that going green can offer. It has also developed an 8-point checklist to give subcontractors the best possible chance of winning business in a competitive tender.

Stuart Rowe, Contracts Executive at Ellmer Construction comments: "As a large construction firm, we have our own set of robust green policies in place and provide environmental training for workers. However, it is essential for subcontractors to understand the value of having their own environmental policies rather than relying on the principal contractor. This gives them an added advantage in a competitive tender and saves them money. With environmental issues becoming ever more important we would encourage all subcontractors to harness the power of going green."

(CD/JM)