Greengage’s journey to net zero
2050 is the date the government have given for the economy to be net zero. Locally in Somerset they are aiming to be a Carbon Neutral County by 2030. The Somerset Chamber of Commerce of which Greengage is a member was actually the first chamber of commerce to be net zero.
We have worked with them and with Business West to acknowledge what we already do to be energy efficient and to take steps to take our business to carbon neutral.
Carbon emissions are divided into 3 categories called scopes. The definition below is taken from the National Grid website.
https://www.nationalgrid.com/stories/energy-explained/what-are-scope-1-2-3-carbon-emissions
Definitions of scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions
Essentially, scope 1 are those direct emissions that are owned or controlled by a company. Whereas scope 2 and 3 indirect emissions are a consequence of the activities of the company but occur from sources not owned or controlled by it.
Scope 1 –
What we already do
Greengage operates three vehicles. They are kept well serviced and regularly maintained which means they are more fuel efficient. We remove unnecessary equipment and keep tyres appropriately replaced and inflated. Staff are assigned jobs based on their proximity to homes and lift shares are encouraged. We work within a 15 mile radius and route plan to further reduce mileage.
Future plans
Vehicles – As fleet vehicles need replacing we will investigate electric or hybrid vehicles. This is obviously a significant outlay for such a small business so may have to be phased in.
Office – we have a small office used during the day in our home. We use the ‘heat the person’ not the house method and use efficient electric heaters etc to keep the office warm.
Scope 2
What we already do
Equipment – we purchase new equipment and have it serviced regularly to maintain efficiency and reduce diesel usage. Where possible we use electric equipment.
In the office we use Octopus where all of the electricity comes from 100% renewable sources like sun, wind and water.
Future plans
We would like to completely remove any diesel equipment so that we are using equipment that produces zero direct emissions.
Collaborate with suppliers to encourage sustainable practices and reduce their own emissions.
Develop systems to track energy usage.
Scope 3
What we already do
Equipment – To enable the repurpose of older tools, we sell on tools for parts locally.
Purchased goods – we aim to buy tools and materials from locally as possible e.g. local quarries, local plant providers,
We use a local skip hire which has exceeded the government targets of stopping waste to landfill and doesn’t take any waste direct to landfill.
Future plans
Choose suppliers that prioritise sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Adopt water efficient landscaping techniques to reduce water usage and associated energy consumption.
The benefits of reducing carbon footprints
Besides the obvious ethical obligation to minimize our impact on the environment and complying with government regulations, there are benefits to businesses. These include cost savings from reducing energy consumption and appealing to clients who prefer to support eco friendly businesses. As a landscaping business enhancing outdoor spaces we are particularly aware of our environment and our impact on it.
We are a small company but by being mindful of what we can do at work we are taking steps as an environmental imperative whilst acknowledging the benefits to us and our clients.
Words: Jennie Eastick, Office Manager