Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), which helps businesses and local authorities reduce waste and recycle more, will now take responsibility for a number of existing government organisations.

The single unit will be used to make it easier for companies to find out information on how to go green.

Liz Goodwin, chief executive officer of WRAP, says: ‘We believe it will help bring clarity for those seeking advice and support on resource efficiency – many of whom have already said they would prefer to deal with one organisation.’

Hilary Benn, secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs, adds that some customers were confused about the ‘myriad of services and bodies’.

It coincides with the launch of a scheme from the UK Trade and Investment department for the country to promote its low-carbon business abroad.

Lord Davies of Abersoch, minister for the department, says the huge global demand for innovations which reduce carbon emissions creates ‘a great opportunity’ for UK companies to gain overseas contracts.