Carbon Footprints 

Being an environmentally friendly business is becoming increasingly important in today's market place. Many companies, including E.On and Powergen, are already advertising "green" contracts to show their commitment to reducing their impact on the world.

As part of this changing way of thinking, the phrase "carbon footprint" is being used more frequently. But it's not just the global organisations that need to think about this; with 40% of UK’s CO2 emissions being generated by buildings, rather than industry, it won't be long before small and medium size businesses (SME's) are targetted by Government. 

Activity in your workplace impacts on the environment in two ways:

• Direct: fuel for your vehicles, gas usage, rubbish
• Indirect: electricity, goods purchases, suppliers 

Important Legislation / Rules

The 2008 Climate Change Bill requires the UK to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% by the year 2020. With almost half of C02 emissions being generated by buildings, the Government is likely to look at SME's to help reduce the UK's emissions.

One other 'rule', which is already being adopted by some Councils for new buildings, is known as the "Merton Rule":

“All new non-residential developments above a threshold of 1,000sqm will be expected to incorporate renewable energy production equipment to provide at least 10% of predicted energy requirements.”

It is increasingly likely that the Merton Rule will be used by Council planning departments as part of the planning permission process in future. If you're planning to build new offices, care homes or factory sites, you should seek to make a green commitment in your new building.

 What can you do now?

• Is your energy producer going green? 
• Do you use local suppliers?  
• Can you be a more energy efficient home?

The Energy Advisors can help:

• Audit your gas and electricity usage
• Provide advice on sourcing energy efficient refrigeration, air conditioning and lighting units
• Develop a CO2 reduction plan