eBay is launching a new training initiative to help SMEs reduce their carbon footprint.

The online retailer is working with sustainability consult, Climate Partner, on its carbon academy, which aims to give guidance on how to reduce the carbon footprint of businesses' day to day operations, as reported by Retail Gazette.

Modules on offer through the academy will include carbon offsetting, the circular economy, communicating climate action, carbon accounting and climate strategies for businesses.

eBay said that, while most small businesses know they should be reducing their carbon impact, and that it will be beneficial for their business, it can be difficult to know how to start.

The online retailer said small businesses have the potential to make a big impact in reducing carbon emissions and it sees its role in supporting them to gain the skills they need to make it happen.

This is the latest sustainability initiative from eBay, which has previously offered up to £100,000 to small businesses specialising in second-hand fashion, launched a sustainable homeware hub to tackle the issue of fast furniture and built awareness of pre-loved clothing through its sponsorship of Love Island.