In 2024, Thompsons conducted a carbon assessment through the Blackpool Net Zero Academy to look at our current carbon emissions and see how we could reduce them.
With energy, water and waste taken into account, our CO2 emissions were 61.56 tonnes per annum.
A Decarbonisation Action Plan was then put in place to reduce our footprint as a company and several actions are already underway.
On this World Environment Day, we encourage everyone to think green – both in the workplace and at home. From switching off lights to making simple swaps when shopping, together we can make a big difference.
How we’re lowering our carbon footprint
We recently installed motion sensors in the meeting and communal areas of our office to reduce power consumption through lights being left on when not in use. This measure is expected to save approximately 478kgCO2e per year.
We have also recently acquired the Procore platform, a significant step towards improving operational efficiencies. As part of our ongoing commitment, we are exploring additional digitalisation platforms for accounting, aiming to reduce paper consumption and enhance overall efficiency.
Improving skip segregation processes has enhanced our site waste management. This is part of our broader focus on minimising waste generation and promoting responsible waste disposal practices.
To improve energy efficiencies at our head office, we have installed solar panels. This step reinforces our commitment to utilising renewable energy sources.
Coinciding with Great Big Green Week, we’ll be launching our own office book swap. Instead of buying new books, we’re offering our team the opportunity to bring one in to swap.
How to reduce your carbon footprint
Next time you go food shopping, look for plastic-free alternatives. While most fruit and veg is wrapped in plastic, it sometimes actually works out cheaper buying loose as well as being better for the environment. Shop seasonally – depending on the time of year, certain foods are more readily available. In choosing products that are in season in the UK currently, the food you buy will not only be fresher and supportive of local farms but will also have a much smaller carbon footprint.
Now we’re heading into the summer months, consider walking or cycling short journeys rather than using a car. If all Thompsons employees swapped a mile driving for a mile walking each month, we’d save 374kg of CO2 in just one year.
At the end of each day, check you’ve switched off any electrical items, such as your computer, heaters and any other equipment that’s plugged in.
Rewards for reducing waste
There are also many ways to help the environment and save money. Below are some initiatives that are designed to reduce waste which also provide a reward.
Too Good To Go – Local shops, cafes and supermarkets parcel up food that’s due to expire and sell at a greatly reduced rate. It’s potluck what’s in the bag but saves the waste and the pounds!
Boots – Register and return 5 eligible items to a participating boots store and receive a £5 voucher to spend in store.
River Island – Return preloved clothes through the Take Back scheme and receive a £5 voucher to spend in store.
H&M – Return unwanted clothes and textiles to store and receive a ‘Thank you’ voucher.
TK Maxx – Partnered with Cancer Research UK, TK Maxx will sort your unwanted items and re-sell in charity shops.
Olio – A local sharing platform to give away unwanted items otherwise headed for landfill. This can be anything from food to a bike. Useless to you, useful to someone down the road.
Everyone has a responsibility to tackle climate change and protect our environment – no matter how big or small the steps are, we’re all in it together.
