Utilise Plus Event Report: Business Networking Breakfast in Crawley

Delegates were up bright and early to make their way to Avensys in Crawley for a Business Networking Breakfast on the theme of ‘smart technology for sustainability.’ This event was part of the Sustainable Business Partnership CIC’s ongoing Utilise Plus programme, which helps small and medium sized enterprises to save energy, reducing their costs and Greenhouse Gas emissions in the process.

After some networking over coffee and pastries, the SBP CIC’s Jack Dale introduced the event with an overview of the Utilise Plus programme. From grants and energy audits, to networking events and educational workshops, Utilise Plus has a variety of services available to organisations who want to save themselves money and save the environment. Jack then handed over to the first expert speaker, Richard Long of Associate Planet. Richard explained that smart technology allows for remotely controlling the environment, from lights and heating to doors and fire systems. Richard asserted that the simplest way smart tech can be used to reduce CO2 emissions is by using sensors and remote controls to operate lighting and heating and monitoring their use with a ‘data dashboard,’ ensuring they are not used excessively or unnecessarily.

Our next expert speaker was Alaric Wood of Avensys, who discussed the ways in which smart tech can be integrated into buildings. This integration means various pieces of tech can be controlled from just one device, ensuring that everything can be turned off when not in use. After his talk, Alaric treated us to a tour of Avenys’ impressive showroom, which boasts the latest state-of-the-art technology, including a bath which can be filled to a precise depth and temperature remotely. The tour finished with a look at their incredible home-cinema, custom built for optimum sound quality!

After the talks and tour, there was plenty of time for more networking. The event went down well with delegates, with Nicki Hesketh of Greenstar Cleaners calling it “very informative,” while Viv Evans of Broadfield Community Centre commented that “both talks were excellent” and Ian Humphrey of THR Consulting said the event “highlighted that being green can suit modern life.”

This event was fully-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). At the Sustainable Business Partnership CIC, we always want to hear from enthusiastic speakers, exciting venues, and dynamic event partners. If you’d like to work with us then please get in touch.