Carbon output and offsetting (and how ZoneSafe can help your organisation).

WE CAN HELP WITH CARBON OFFSETTING! But before we explain how, first, let’s start from the beginning…

What is a carbon footprint?

The dictionary definition of ‘carbon footprint’ is:

 ‘The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organisation or community’.

This is historically defined as: the total emissions caused by an individual, event, organisation or product expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent’ (a quantity that describes a mixture that has the same amount of CO² (Carbon Dioxide) that would have the same global warming potential, when measured over a specified timescale (generally 100 years).

Greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, can be emitted through situations such as land clearance – the production and consumption of food, fuels, manufactured goods, materials, wood, roads, buildings, transportation and other services.

How are businesses preventing this?

A management process, called Carbon Process Management (or CPM) was introduced, which promotes environmental effectiveness in businesses. It was designed to maximise the exiting efficiencies in the consumption of resources that contribute to climate change. CPM techniques can also reduce operating costs, realise gains and allow a competitor advantage if implemented well. CPM can use a Japanese-inspired philosophy of ‘Kaizen’ which means ‘improvement’. This continuously improves workplace practices to reduce wastage – and combined with Business Process Management (BPM) can increase business efficiency.

How can a business implement this?

There are many ways to start:

Use LED lighting. With LED bulbs using approximately 15 times less electricity than halogen lighting, this is an easy start. Replace all your bulbs as soon as you can!

Paperless work. If we all went paperless, and used digital files and documents, this would create an environmentally friendly working environment. Making, recycling and destroying paper isn’t environmentally-friendly.

Join the cycle scheme. The UK Government introduced the ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme in 1999 as a tax exemption initiative to promote healthier journeys to work and to reduce environmental pollution. It stops the CO² emissions on the daily commute and makes us fitter in the process!

Switch off appliances. Not in the middle of the day; when you’ve finished work! Switching off anything with a large energy output – computers, printers, fans, monitors, shredders – switching them off at the end of the day will reduce your business’ footprint.

Recycle waste. Most businesses generate quite a lot of waste, so it is important for businesses to get into the habit of recycling waste. A series of separately labelled bins will help for sorting out recycling…

Recycling metal. Mostly all metals can be recycled effectively and efficiently. Drinks cans and other metal goods can now be recycled and can be back in the system as new products within a couple of weeks. Every time even a piece of metal is recycled, it saves energy and reduces the size of the NEW product’s carbon footprint.

Recycle unused computers. Computers can become outdated very quickly. Instead of keeping them in a cupboard or sending them to landfill where they will NOT decompose, you can ensure that all parts of them ate recycled well by investing in WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) recycling. Read more here.

Use a microwave. Switch the company oven for a microwave – because it is extremely quick in heating and cooking, it is more energy efficient than cooking in an oven. Staff using a microwave rather than an oven can help to reduce your footprint.

Use energy efficient appliances. Like microwaves, your company should invest in all other energy efficient appliances. Look for the ‘energy star’ when investing in new appliances.

Switch to rechargeable batteries. Getting power from rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones can SIGNIFICANTLY cut company waste – and can really help businesses to reduce their carbon footprint. Invest in a charger and invest in the future!

Carbon offsetting

Businesses would like to carbon offset. This means a reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases to compensate for emissions made elsewhere. Offsets are made in tonnes of carbon dioxide (or equivalent). Most businesses aspire to be ‘carbon neutral’.

Being ‘carbon neutral’, or having a net zero carbon footprint, means achieving the ultimate goal of no carbon emissions whatsoever. Your carbon output is effectively reduced to zero.

Are we working towards being carbon neutral?

Yes. The Committee on Climate Change (CCC), and independent non-departmental public body was formed in 2008 to advise Governments and Parliaments on tackling and preparing for climate change. Under their recommendation, the UK government has committed to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

How does ZoneSafe help with carbon offsetting?

Our tag can help with this! Let’s explain.

ZoneSafe provides a warning system for pedestrians that work in close proximity to vehicles.

We use a modular system, which – simply put – means that we have several components that, when used together, can suit YOUR company and the risks that you face with pedestrians and industrial vehicles.

Our ACTIVE TAG (active as it has an integral battery) is at the heart of our ZoneSafe system. When worn by a pedestrian, the vehicle that has been fitted with a ZoneSafe antenna will detect that pedestrian within 9 METRES! (or whatever distance you would like it set to). So…..

Our TAG can help with carbon offsetting. Why? Because it is rechargeable. The battery can be fully recharged quickly and easily with a wireless charger (we can provide these too) within 2 hours and can last 3 months between charges!

No need to replace your tags, no need for more production, no waste and no recycling.

Find out more about our ZoneSafe system at www.zonesafe.net or call 01202 86800.

Help your carbon footprint – and protect your staff.