EA urges firms to improve environmental performance
Environmental update 22/08/2011
The Environment Agency (EA) is calling upon large firms to
follow its example, after successfully cutting its own carbon
emissions since 2006.
The EA announced that, since 2006/7, it has managed to slash its
carbon emissions by almost a fifth. The environmental performance,
which is measured across five key areas – including office waste,
mileage, carbon dioxide, mains water and building energy – saw
improvements across all five areas. The changes also saved the
organisation around £6 million a year.
The body has now set itself even more ambitious targets
regarding the further cutting of such emissions, and has urged
other businesses to follow suit.
The EA has reported that the majority of the largest publicly
listed firms are now reporting on their environmental performance
each year. However, a recent study revealed that the quality of the
information provided remains, in some cases, very basic. The EA has
called upon firms to provide detailed eco statistics as requested
by government guidance.
Dr Paul Leinster, Environment Agency Chief Executive, said,
“Transport, energy and waste all contribute and need to be managed,
measured and reduced. Those that do so effectively will reduce
costs and improve their reputation.
“Our own experience shows that focusing on a few important
measures, embedding them into every team and reporting to the Board
each year are key to success,” he added.
Some suggestions for improving environmental management include
using cleaner vehicles, installing water-saving technology and
improving recycling facilities, as well as educating staff about
the environment.
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