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News release
Reducing carbon - a sound business decision
There is growing consensus that as a society we have to do something about climate change, also known as global warming, because it has become the greatest threat to our environment.
Climate change is caused by increasing levels of greenhouse gases that trap the sun's energy within the atmosphere, greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide which is produced every time we use energy from fossil fuels, oil, coal and natural gas.
Reducing carbon - leader or follower
It's only a matter of time before the cost of carbon catches up with businesses. For example carbon taxes could mean more expensive energy supplies and higher insurance premiums. As consumers become more aware of the impact of carbon they could choose more socially responsible suppliers. And taking action now could mean that you are ahead of the game as government regulations and legislation will ultimately impact on everyone.
Reducing the amount of carbon you emit is one of the fastest, most effective way to save your business money. And the good news is that becoming environmentally friendly you can also enhance your reputation, encourage more people to come and work for you and making sure that you stay ahead of government regulation
The UK government has committed to reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases by signing the Kyoto Treaty and have released the Climate Change Bill committing the UK to an 80% reduction in carbon emissions by the year 2050. However if we are to meet our targets, businesses across the UK must lead the way.
West Lothian Council's executive councillor for the environment, Robert De Bold, commented: "West Lothian Council has set itself ambitious targets in reducing its emissions and improving the energy efficiency of its buildings and street lighting by 2014.
"Businesses also have a huge part to play in reducing emissions. And the good news is that, along with the potential to save money, there could be a competitive advantage to be gained from being proactive. A recent survey suggested that consumers are much more likely to buy products and services from companies with strong environmental sustainability policies."
Know your footprint
A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact our activities have on the environment, and in particular climate change. It's easy to calculate your own carbon footprint and a strategy can be devised to reduce it.
Some ideas are to ensure equipment is turned off at the end of the day or when not in use, improve insulation on buildings and turn off heaters/air conditioning when not needed. A related strategy is that you can close your doors and windows when the heating or air conditioning is on. Upgrading existing lighting systems to low energy alternatives would also save energy. Make a difference in your office by recycling and reusing scrap paper. Start a bring a cardie to work campaign and turning down the heat by one degree overall. Make carbon a boardroom issue and encourage your colleagues to participate in reducing the company's carbon footprint.
Encourage your staff to get involved about how their everyday activities impact on your carbon footprint.
Business solutions are readily available from organisations such as the Carbon Trust. Go online to calculate your current carbon emissions by using a carbon calculator, which is a quick and easy way to find your businesses carbon footprint.
For advice on becoming environmentally friendly contact the Business Environment Partnership's Business Environmental Advisers on 01506 777921. Information is also available at: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland , the Business Enterprise Partnership (new window) and www.carbontrust.co.uk (new window)
Date: 07-07-2009
