Today, the call for sustainability resonates louder than ever. As we celebrate the NHS Sustainability Day of Action organised by Sustainability Partnerships, we stand firm in our commitment to drive positive change not only within our organisation but also across our communities and beyond.
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us; it’s a guiding principle woven into the fabric of our operations. From reducing our carbon footprint to promoting eco-friendly practices, we strive to always improve in our journey towards net-zero.
- Sustainable office: Just half a year ago, we moved into a smaller, more sustainable office, with energy efficiency measures as well as waste reduction and recycling facilities. With staff working remotely at least part of the time, a smaller, green office was the clear sustainable choice.
- Reducing staff commute: Our hybrid and remote working policy has also helped us significantly reduce CO2 emissions from staff travel.
- Partnering with Ecologi has given us the opportunity to contribute to climate projects, plant trees, and fund CO2 avoidance (minimising the volume of greenhouse gases being emitted). Just recently, we funded a peatland restoration and conservation project in Indonesia.
- Beach cleaning: During the past year, we sponsored and took part in several beach cleaning initiatives. Beach clean-ups are also a great way to inspire employees to actively participate in environmental projects.
- Sustainable events giveaways: We have been regularly exhibiting at events, and we always make sure our freebies are sustainable (coasters from recycled materials, biscuits wrapped in biodegradable non-plastic packaging etc.).
- Planning ahead: net-zero cannot be achieved without proper planning, so we are currently outlining the necessary steps in order to reach this goal as soon as possible.
Helping clients reach sustainability goals
Aside from our efforts to become a more sustainable business, we also take pride in helping our clients do the same. While Octopass helps companies manage their permits effectively from an operational standpoint, it is also rich in sustainability features. Some of these include:
- Digitising permits and passes, significantly reducing paper waste.
- Sustainability scoring for parking permit applications, based on flexible factors, customisable to fit the requirements of each organisation.
- Admin access to information such as vehicle type, size, CO2 emissions etc. for each application, for accurate reporting and planning.
- Sustainable Car Park Management – our joint solution in partnership with Mobilityways, to incentivise active travel, public transport, and car sharing, with the help of a personal travel plan for each applicant.
Looking Ahead
On this NHS Sustainability Day of Action, we urge all businesses to join us in taking steps to enhance our collective sustainability efforts. Here are some practical eco-friendly tips for any organisation looking to make a positive environmental impact:
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Implement a comprehensive recycling program and encourage employees to minimise waste. Reuse office supplies when possible and properly dispose of electronic waste.
- Go Digital: Reduce paper use by promoting digital documentation and communication. Encourage the use of electronic signatures and digital note-taking tools.
- Energy Conservation: Invest in energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Encourage employees to turn off lights, computers, and other equipment when not in use.
- Sustainable Commutes: Promote car sharing, cycling, and the use of public transportation. Offer incentives for employees who adopt eco-friendly commuting options.
- Green Spaces: Incorporate plants and green spaces within the office to improve air quality and provide a pleasant working environment.
- Eco-friendly Products: Choose eco-friendly office supplies and cleaning products. Opt for items made from recycled materials and non-toxic substances.
- Remote Work: Encourage remote working options to reduce commuting emissions and energy usage in the office.
- Water Conservation: Install water-saving fixtures and promote mindful water usage among employees.
- Sustainable Events: Plan eco-friendly company events by reducing single-use items, sourcing local and sustainable food, and minimising waste.
- Measure and Report: Track your company’s sustainability efforts and share the progress with your team. Regularly evaluate and adjust your strategies to enhance their effectiveness.
Whether through energy-efficient practices, waste reduction strategies, or employee engagement initiatives, every company has a role to play. Sustainability is a journey, and each eco-friendly step is a step in the right direction. Join us in making every day a sustainability day of action.
