Energy Use and Waste Reduction

Becoming more energy efficient as a business makes sound commercial and environmental sense. Here are some fairly simple actions that organisations can take to reduce their energy usage:

• Use energy saving lighting
• Make maximum use of daylight and always switch off the lights at the end of the day
• Avoid using plastic cups and disposable products where you can
• Use rechargeable batteries
• Ensure your electrical equipment is Energy Star compliant
• Don’t have the air conditioning on at the same time as the heating!
• Ensure monitors, PCs, photocopiers and printers are switched off at night
• Enable power saving features on your computer monitor if you are not typing (rather than a
  screen-saver, which saves your screen but not your energy!)

For more information on reducing energy consumption in your business please visit the
following excellent web resources:

Envirowise estimates that waste can cost a business up to 4% of revenue, so by reducing the amount of waste in your business you can have a positive impact on the bottom line.

Envirowise is a government funded organisation that helps businesses strip out waste from their business processes, comply with relevant environmental legislation and enhance CSR strategies.

Envirowise consultations are free of charge and could save your organisation a substantial amount of money. For more information please visit the Envirowise website

For 200 tips on waste reduction in business, download Envirowise’s free guide (site registration required).

The Resource Efficiency Knowledge Transfer Network is a free service funded by the Government’s Technology Strategy Board, Regional Development Agencies, Devolved Administrations & Research Councils. It aims to help UK companies reduce their waste by promoting:

•Better use of materials and energy
•Use of industrial wastes as a source of chemicals, fuels and other valuable materials
•Recovery and processing of waste from one site, for use as a resource elsewhere.

Another useful resource on this topic is the Business Link website which provides advice on all aspects of waste reduction and business sustainability.