2011 Successes and 2012 Resolutions

Over 50 members responded to our recent survey, highlighting some of their most effective carbon cutting projects in 2011 and those projects planned for 2012.

Some of the successful projects for 2011 highlighted by members include:

• The National Trust installed biomass boilers.
• Bristol Water installed 300 kW of Solar PV at their treatment works.
• Hydrock installed ground source heating.
• Bristol University implemented voltage optimisation on sites.
• Avon Fire Service invested in boiler upgrades.
• Gregg Latchams saved energy by turning down and making alterations to their thermostats.
• University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust installed valve and pipe insulation.
• The Ethical Property Company installed electronic Thermostatic Radiator Valves.
• Sustain IT installed an energy monitor so that staff could visualise energy consumption.
• Buro Happold reduced travel by using HD collaboration tools (video conferencing).
• Bristol City Council saved energy by switching off street lights.

Some of the New Year’s resolutions that repeatedly cropped up from members were:

• Tackling lighting consumption (e.g. by installing LEDs, sensors and switching off).
• More thorough monitoring to understand the energy data better.
• Reviewing IT (e.g. server virtualisation, using thin clients and data centre rationalisation).
• More sustainable travel – particularly fleet improvements and encouraging more cycling.
• Engaging staff – many people identified this one as being important this year.
• Reducing waste and increasing recycling efforts.
• Obtaining ISO 14001 environmental management certification.

With so much great experience in the group, 2012 presents a great opportunity to exchange experiences between members on what’s worked for you.