Energy: improving your carbon footprint
Energy: improving your carbon footprint
In recent years we have undoubtedly seen an environmental shift, as major corporations and countries aim for net zero emissions by 2050 or before. With a recent study by Oxford University calling for a ‘green recovery’ from Covid-19 due to the clear short and long run advantages, there seems no better time to ensure your organisation is heading to a more sustainable future. As businesses are slowly reopening doors, there is an opportunity to consider small changes that will create a more energy efficient business with multifaceted benefits.
Below we have suggested several simple steps which can improve the carbon footprint and energy efficiency of your organisation and cumulatively contribute to a more eco-conscious environment:
A key starting point is considering your energy providers. Often there is a tendency to stick with the status quo and collectively SMEs could not only reduce their environmental impact but also save millions of pounds annually in the UK if providers were compared regularly. Please see our simple guide to switching to renewable energy providers here.
Replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with LEDs is one of most popular ways to implement change. Currently, half of SMEs have upgraded according to the Carbon Trust. They use around 80% less energy, making them a lower carbon footprint option and helpful for reducing energy bills. They also emit up to 50% less heat and last up to 50x longer than incandescent bulbs.
A further step would be to invest in a ‘smart lighting’ system, involving automatic dimmers and sensors.
An obvious but important point is making the most of the natural light in rooms, ensuring windows aren’t covered and are properly insulated.
Consider changing the landscape around you - this can easily make a difference to the amount of energy your business uses, such as strategically planting trees to block winds or provide shade to help reduce heat and cooling costs.
‘Phantom loads’ often occur as equipment with voice activation or standby modes continuously draw energy even if you think they’re switched off. Hence, consider installing smart power strips, which will ensure your electricity is cut off to multiple devices and help you easily reduce your energy consumption.
Conduct regular heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or HVAC check-ups and have your system cleaned so there are clear filters and no leaking vents. Professional annual or biannual tuning of your heating and cooling system is often recommended as it inspects different parts and checks specific levels, fixing minor issues that come with regular use before they become an expensive problem, which ensures longevity and maximum efficiency of the HVAC system.
By installing smart thermostats, you can eliminate wasteful energy use without having to upgrade the whole HVAC system and could also indicate when it’s necessary to replace filters or issues within the system itself.
Installing any ‘smart’ system provides the flexibility to control electricity and temperatures. This may become even more prominent in businesses as the rise of flexi-hours and telecommuting continues, causing the dynamic of a set workspace to change.
SMEs account for 90% of global businesses and 50% of employment, so is it clear businesses of all sizes are critically important to ensure global emission targets are met. It is important to recognise that through changes in regulation, supply chains, energy prices and customer preferences, all businesses will be affected by climate issues. Through ensuring maximum energy efficiency in your business environment, you will be in a better position to navigate these changes.