Chris Milton : Independent Journalist & Writer

The Guardian – Increasing workplace efficiency and cutting carbon emissions

Plain text version:

When businesses address their workplace carbon emissions they often look at expensive projects, such as replacement heating and air conditioning systems or improving insulation.

What is often overlooked is the company’s day to day occupancy of the building and how efficiently they’re using the space, which is what drives their eventual use of the HVAC systems.

Low Carbon Workplace (LCW), part of the Carbon Trust and the UK’s only carbon based landlord, has developed a unique method to create a Whole Building Carbon Regime. A recent report – cutting workplace carbon, not competitiveness – outlines measures for the carbon regime. (more…)

The Guardian – Energy saving: dramatic savings without huge capital outlay

Plain text version:

One of the biggest problems for businesses looking to increase their energy efficiency is the large, upfront spend initiatives can require. Typically, these focus on projects such as large-scale building refurbishments or replacing equipment across the board.

A new report from the sustainability consultancy Verisae, entitled Ten Ways to Slash Energy Cost & Reduce Budget Uncertainty, has highlighted several techniques companies can implement without making a large capital commitment.

Although the report is focused upon the retail sector and North American grocery stores in particular, its discussion of low-cost solutions is useful for any business with one or more moderately sized premises. (more…)

The Guardian – How to source sustainably

In 2011 companies’ supply chains will gain greater importance, irrespective of the size of businesses involved.

The primary driver of this trend is taking recognised measurements for water consumption, waste and greenhouse gas emissions and applying them to a company’s supply chain.

But many businesses are finding this tricky for their overseas suppliers as the practical implementation of responsibility can vary from country to country.

Shirahime, a UK based ethical fashion consultancy, has published a guide to responsibly sourcing textiles and clothes from India.

Despite its narrow country and industry focus, the guide is packed with advice for any business looking to find responsible goods or services suppliers from overseas. (more…)