As part of our series of interviews with Business West Chamber members, we spoke to Nick Hounsfield, founder of inland surfing destination, The Wave.
Nick established The Wave in 2019 after starting with just £500, and over a ten-year period, raised £30 million to build it. There are now six more sites planned.
Nick said:
“The wave is basically taking a slice of the ocean and putting it into the outskirts of northern Bristol. It creates perfect surfing waves for people of all ages, all backgrounds, and all abilities.”
The company is set to power its surf waves entirely by solar by 2023. Its already installed 600 solar thermal tubes to heat the shower facilities, saving more than 11,000 kg of CO2 emissions per year.
Ecotricity currently supply them with 100% renewable and sustainable energy.
The Wave has been particularly focusing over the last year on the social impact and environmental side of the business. Nick continued:
“I think this is how we should all be looking at the future of business. How can we make sure that while we make profit, this is not at the behest of social and environmental impact?”
The Wave has also been working with Business West on its journey to becoming a B Corp. This has involved attending Net Zero workshops to increase its knowledge of sustainability and how to grow in a climate positive way.
Nick said:
“Business West has been there to support us since day one. I started nearly 12 years ago with just an idea and Business West was extremely helpful in terms of creating that network of people who could also help me build a vision and a team around me.
“I also work with a consultant who is helping me look at becoming a B Corp. She’s been going up to various network meetings with Business West, particularly around sustainability. This has provided a good opportunity for the business to be able to do some decent knowledge sharing across the region, which is incredibly important.
“It’s really shown to me that anybody doing business in Bristol should be part of business West.”
Phil Bridgman, Head of Membership at Business West, said:
“Aiming for net zero emissions is a high priority for businesses and The Wave is an inspiration for businesses in the region looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
“If you’re a business looking to become more sustainable, then we are offering a series of workshops to equip you with the knowledge needed to grow in a sustainable way.”
Does your business need support to become more sustainable?
We have a series of Lunch and Learn events which will be delivered every other month throughout 2022/2023. The next event is taking place on 1st February and will focus on Green Energy. Book on and see a full list of the events here.
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Trading to Net Zero
How business acts now will shape our planet and communities for centuries to come. Business West is commited to safeguarding the environment and addressing the climate crisis.