Sustainability is Good for Business

OFFICE STAFF

Introduction

– Our customers are looking for accommodation that is working to improve its sustainability and reduce negative environmental impact

– The hotel is making efforts to reduce its water and energy consumption and to minimise the production of waste

– All departments are able to contribute to this effort

Offices – Energy Reduction

– Enable energy saving features on all computers and electronic equipment

– Shut down computers, photocopiers etc. overnight

– Invest in energy efficient lamps – CFLS and LEDs in place of tungsten

– Only turn on lights when natural light levels are insufficient

– When purchasing new IT equipment, investigate low energy alternatives.

– A higher cost price is often quickly offset by lower running costs

Offices – Water Reduction

– All bathroom areas should have flow restrictors / aerators on the taps

– Toilets should have a dual flush mechanism or have the cistern volume reduced.

– Don’t leave taps running excessively

– Report any malfunctioning toilets, excessive water flow, leaking plugs to maintenance immediately for prompt repairs

Offices – Waste Minimisation

– Only print what you need

– If you must print something, do it double sided

– Reuse paper that has only been printed on one side for notes or for informal printing

– Avoid using plastic liners in office bins

– Avoid purchasing single-use disposable items

– Take longevity into account when making purchasing decisions

Case Study - Caribbean

Divi Southwinds, Barbados– Actions

– GM and Environmental manager have implemented a policy meaning all office staff are obliged to turn off lights and a/c when they leave their offices for lunch / meetings etc.

– Impacts

– Lighting and a/c use in all offices is reduced by at least one hour per day, often considerably more.

– This policy has contributed towards the 300,000kWh that the hotel saved in 2010

Action Planning

– Discuss what options there are for reducing energy, water and waste in your operations

– create a list of potential actions

– who needs to be involved to ensure that these actions can take place?

– how quickly do you anticipate these actions being put into place?

– will any further training be required?

MAKINGA WORLDOF DIFFERENCE…