10 Actions to Reduce Carbon Emissions from Your Business
Businesses however big or small can reduce their carbon emissions. We have compiled 10 actions you can take to significantly reduce carbon emissions.
1. Switch to renewable energy backed by REGO certificates
REGOs – Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin – assure that the energy supplied to you is 100% renewably sourced. The GHG Protocol market-based calculation method means that if you use renewable energy, your electricity emissions reduce to zero.
2. Reduce carbon emissions from air travel
Consider travelling by train domestically. A one-way flight from London Heathrow to New York JFK produces 3,684 kg CO2e for first class, 2,671 kg for business class, and just 921 kg for economy. Switching from business to economy makes a significant difference.
3. Reduce carbon emissions from road travel
Install GPS telematics systems for fleet data analysis. Choose fuel-efficient or electric vehicles — government grants are available. Engage with the Energy Saving Trust for free Green Fleet Reviews. Train drivers in ecodriving techniques to save fuel.
4. Increase efficiency of office lighting
Switch to LED lighting for a quick win with long-lasting effects. Use natural light when adequate. Install motion sensors and dimmable lights. Solar shading and transparent film can minimise glare and excessive heat.
5. Reduce energy in your data centre
Data centres save 8–9% in energy costs for every 1°C increase in server inlet temperature — 23°C is optimal. Set up hot and cold aisles (could save 20–40% in cooling energy). Google uses vinyl plastic curtains as a cost-effective containment system.
6. Optimise heating and cooling systems
Install window film that reflects heat. Service boilers regularly. Implement temperature controls and timed heating. Consider a Building Management System to prevent heating and cooling competing. Ensure energy isn’t wasted by excessive overnight heating/cooling.
7. Reduce, reuse, recycle
Think about sustainable procurement: purchase recycled paper and refurbished IT equipment. Manufacture and transport of items like paper, food, laptops and packaging all carry carbon footprints — minimising consumption reduces emissions.
8. Reduce emissions from food and food waste
Provide good vegan and vegetarian options — 18% of global emissions are associated with livestock agriculture. Ensure proper food waste disposal facilities. Food waste is estimated to produce 3.3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases each year, ranked third globally after the US and China.
9. Minimise single-use plastic
Introduce sustainable procurement policies to reduce plastic waste. Remove as many single-use plastic items as possible. Be cautious of biodegradable or compostable materials — many can’t be combined with food waste.
10. Print as minimally as possible
Digitise processes with online contract signings and on-screen annotations. Set double-sided printing as default. Use ‘follow me’ printing services across office printers to cut accidental or unnecessary printing.