Crediton Legal Firm, Charlesworth Nicholl & Co launched their new Go Green policy today aimed at reducing the firm's carbon emissions. The firm has also launched a new website (green of course!) listing the steps being taken to save energy.
Practice Manager Sue Preece said "With climate change on all of our minds we decided we could do something to help. Any size of business can make a contribution by implementing small changes. Getting started couldn't be easier. We contacted the Carbon Trust which provides free advice for businesses to help them identify and make energy savings. Almost half the energy that a computer uses, for example, is accounted for by the monitor, so switching it off when not in use is an important saving. We are installing energy saving light bulbs which use only 25% of the energy of a standard bulb as well as lasting a lot longer. All the staff here are keen that we should do what we can in the work place to reduce the damage to our environment."
Top Energy Saving Tips from the Carbon Trust
Reducing heating by 1 degree can make a saving of 80% on an annual heating bill.
Always switch off monitors when not in use. They account for almost half a computer's energy use.
Make use of natural daylight where possible. It costs nothing and cam reduce lighting bills by up to 19%.
Energy saving light bulbs use 75% less electricity than standard bulbs, provide the same amount of light and last up to 10 times longer.
Reduce lighting in areas that don't need bright lights such as corridors.
Think about implementing motion sensitive heat and light systems.
Encourage staff to turn off lights whenever possible. Businesses can save up to 15% by implementing this policy.
Move to a green energy provider.
Source - The Carbon Trust
Steps taken so far by Charlesworth Nicholl & Co include the following:-
- Ensuring monitors, photocopiers etc are switched off at the end of the day and not left on standby
- Changing to low energy light bulbs
- Reducing heating
- Turning off lights wherever possible
- Recycling waste where possible, including paper, cardboard and toner cartridges