Network Update – February 2015

Welcome to February’s Network Update. This month: Borrow an electric vehicle; UK emissions fall; new Scope 2 guidance; Hotel case study; Best to divest; “Any tree but poplars!”

Case Study: Sheldon Hotel, Eastbourne

Small changes at the Sheldon Hotel in Eastbourne have made a big difference to their energy bills. Draught proofing windows and doors, fitting a chimney balloon, reviewing hot water settings and installing LED spotlights have helped reduce annual energy costs by £1,150. Full case study.

Thanks to East Sussex County Council, £1,000 grants and free energy audits are available to businesses in the county.

Best to Divest?

In 2014 the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, owned by the Norwegian government, dropped 32 coal mining companies from its portfolio, due to the risk they face from increasing climate change regulation. Should other organisations and individuals follow their lead? Explore the ethical and financial case for divestment at a half-day seminar in Brighton on the 2nd March, organised by the Brighthelm Centre. Event website.

Sustainability in the Workplace

An essential half-day seminar for all businesses with premises who are keen to reduce their utility bills and win new customers through demonstrating their green credentials. Run on behalf of the Brighton & Hove Chamber of Commerce Ride the Wave series. Brighthelm Centre, 3rd March. Details & on-line bookings.

“The course was great and very well put together.” Graham Hillier, Cash Bases Ltd, Newhaven manufacturer.

The Global Calculator

The Global Calculator is a model of the world’s energy, land and food systems to 2050. Create different scenarios to explore whether everyone can have a good lifestyle while also tackling climate change. View calculator.

“Any Tree but Poplars!”

Said South East Wood Fuels‘ Mike Chapman explaining the production process of woodchip for biomass boilers at January’s breakfast in Lewes. He was joined by Jonny Starmer of Baystar Energy who provided an insight into biomass technology and the Renewable Heat Incentive, and Abigail Dombey, Environmental Manager at the University of Brighton, who shared initiatives they have taken to reduce their carbon footprint.

Download their presentations.

Bookings are now being taken for our next breakfast events in Littlehampton, 21st April, and Brighton, 7th May, with case study speakers from the Woodhorn Group and Glyndebourne. The Sustainable Business Network’s programme of business breakfasts and Industry Insight Tours are run on behalf of the University of Brighton’s Green Growth Platform.

Borrow an Electric Vehicle

Motorline Nissan in Crawley are offering local businesses the chance to borrow an electric car or van for a week free of charge. You can try either the Nissan Leaf or the new e-NV200 van. Contact Thérèse Wynn-Davies.

Last but not least…

Become a Low Carbon Workspaces Affiliate – More details
For suppliers of energy efficient technologies. Feature on the grant scheme’s website.

New guidance: scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions – Read more
Published by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol to help standardise how organisations measure emissions from purchased electricity.

UK greenhouse gas emissions fall 2.4% in 2013 – Government report
568.3 million tonnes CO2e released; a 13.9 million tonnes reduction on 2012.