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News & Media > Sustainability

06:07:2010

Carbon reduction: a 'long-term commitment', not 'flavour of the month'

If you want your carbon reduction strategy to be a success, it has to be a long-term commitment. Don't just think that turning off the lights, or driving more economically, are flavour of the month ideas.

That’s the advice from Tom Macagno, May Gurney’s head of sustainability, who goes on to say: “It's important to see the big picture: carbon management will not only reduce your energy costs and help the environment, but will increasingly drive sales success.

“A storm is on the horizon in the form of customer requirements. Carbon management is becoming an important purchasing criterion, and failing to reduce your carbon footprint will cost you sales.

“It's not just your own carbon you need to monitor. At May Gurney our customers are starting to ask how we manage carbon in our operations and in our supply chain. It's becoming an essential part of their selection making process.

“Make no mistake, suppliers who are not actively managing their volatile energy costs are a threat to your competitiveness (as well as their own). But, equally important, inaction on carbon emissions by your supply chain makes your business a less attractive proposition to buyers with a 'green' reputation to uphold.

“Suppliers actively managing carbon are delivering better value and helping to protect our brand. In the near future, suppliers will be selected partly on their ability to manage carbon. You should be prepared for your customers to do the same.

“But carbon management need not be intimidating or resource intensive. There are some simple, basic steps to take.

“First, calculate your carbon footprint (see the Carbon Trust or DEFRA websites for more information). The footprint will establish a baseline and highlight where reductions are possible.

“Next, follow a classic 'plan, do, check, and act' cycle. Plan your objective and actions, for example: reduce CO2 by turning off equipment after hours. Then make sure you do it. Check the results against your baseline, then act to understand and close any gaps. When you achieve your goal, move to another carbon reduction objective.

“We have used this process to look for reductions in our use of vehicle fuel – 93% of our total emissions. There are practical steps like putting speed limiters on commercial vehicles and monitoring fuel consumption for all vehicles. Each month we check our improvement and act to maintain progress.

“So, definitely do turn off the lights when you leave the room, but do it because you see the bigger picture. And if you have any doubt of the value of carbon management, just talk to your customers.”