Greenbelt ecological footprint
Greenbelt recognises “Ecological Footprint” as the term given to the resources every individual, householder and business in the country consumes.
We are committed to positively reducing the resources we use in order to become more sustainable, and reduce the effects of climate change. We are committed to measuring and reducing its impact on the UK’s Ecological Footprint, and will do this by measuring indicators for:
- travel (car, air and public transport),
- energy (electricity, gas and water), and
- materials used (such as paper, IT, furniture, etc).
While economic and social indicators are required to give the whole picture of sustainable development, Greenbelt aims to tackle the areas where it has a direct effect.
Actual figures are not currently available for travel or energy usage, but average figures recommended by recognised environmental bodies for a company the size of Greenbelt give the following figures:
| Usage | kgCo2/month |
|---|---|
| Travel 20 staff | |
| 19,050 miles by car @13 x 1250ml x 516kgco2 & 7 x 400ml x 70kgco2 | 9050 |
| 5 rail journeys @ 70kgco2; | 3500 |
| 20 1 hr air flights @ 350kgco2 | 7000 |
| Energy consumption | |
| 7000 sqft office space @200kgco2 | 1400 |
| Use of materials | |
| 49 staff | 2401 |
| TOTAL | 23 351 |
Recognised averages for a company the size and nature of Greenbelt.
Greenbelt has made a start to reduce its footprint. In October 2006, an Environmental Management System was adopted, so there is already an aim, an environmental policy, and a waste minimisation programme in place. Staff have responded well to the EMS, with the following achievements to date:
- paper usage is down pro rata the number of households being serviced (due to staff awareness; more recycling; printers & copiers defaulting to double sided printing; using scrap paper for messages instead of post-it stickers; not printing off emails; use of email letters)
- toner cartridges recycled
- all new computer equipment is checked for energy efficiency
- computers and other electrical equipment are turned off when not in use, and not left on standby.
Reporting mechanisms are now in place, with the first quarterly report (April to June) in preparation. Subsequent reports will highlight progress and quantify savings achieved.