Small and medium-sized businesses have been warned that they could lose up to £3bn next year as a result of inefficient equipment and energy wasteage, according to data released by The Carbon Trust.

The Carbon Trust's research showed that out-of-date machinery was the number one reason for small businesses wasting needless energy.

All small business owners have been urged to ensure that their equipment is up to date so that they reduce their carbon footprint and save money.