The Challenge of Being Green

• Kettles and boilers

  Unlike the modern jug-types, an old kettle cannot boil a single cup of water. Change your old inefficient kettle for a new type and only use the necessary amount of water when filling the kettle. You may have a large water boiler for washing cups and plates or making tea and coffee. Sometimes these are left on continuously, wasting large amounts of heat and money. Monitor the use of these boilers and only switch-on when needed. Alternatively, instantaneous water boilers should be installed wherever p

• Monitor your radiators

  Most radiators can be controlled. Often they are needed at the start of the day but people and computers generate heat and as the day progresses, the radiators may become unnecessary. Fitting a thermostatic valve is the best option. Failing this, simply encourage staff to turn down their radiators. More.

• Set monitors and photocopiers to energy saving mode

  Some items of equipment, such as computer monitors and photocopiers, have special functions allowing them to run on standby or energy saving mode during long periods when they are not in use. These functions in no way take away from the performance of the equipment.

Switch off lights when not needed
Lighting can account for up to one third of energy costs in buildings. That's a lot of energy and a lot of money and much of it is waste. Lights are often left on unnecessarily in sunlit areas or when offices are unoccupied,. This is as a result of habit as much as anything. Encouraging your staff to switch off lights when not needed is the best course of action.

Use other ECO materials around the home

Everything from recycled plastics and steel to sheep’s wool and reclaimed wood and rubber construction materials can all help reduce your homes. carbon footprint and save you money in the long run. See https://www.rubberroofingdirect.co.uk/green-roofs/guide-to-maintaining-your-green-roof

Switch-off office equipment when not in use

In most offices, computers, printers and associated equipment are left on for the whole day. Monitors, especially, use the most electricity and do not have to be left on continuously. The equipment not only wastes electricity but also generates heat that leads to a stuffy office or added air conditioning costs.