Some 22% of 70 business owners questioned on the FPB Environment Member Panel said that economic conditions had made them less likely to pursue environmentally friendly solutions.

However, 17% said they were even more likely to do so, while 61% said the recession had no impact on their environmental policies.

FPB policy representative Matt Goodman said that, while the will is there for small businesses to implement green policies, this is sometimes overridden by a perception of steep costs and a lack of information and support.

He said: "It is important to emphasise that measures to reduce carbon emissions can mean savings on the bottom line.

"However, we also need a more joined-up approach from the government, including a system of workable incentives that are rewarding rather than punitive."

Two thirds of respondents identified barriers to implementing energy-efficiency processes as costs, time, payback period, lack of support and suppliers over-packaging their goods.

Incentives suggested by panel members to encourage business owners to put in place environmental measures were "largely financial".

More funding was wanted by 30% of respondents, while 23% wanted a faster return on investment.

Many were also concerned the environment was being used as a reason to increase tax, and asked for clearer policies.