Thinking Green Part 8

Unplug electricals when not in use

Here is this month’s article from ABDO’s #ThinkingGreen campaign, working with the profession to make the optical world more sustainable. If you have managed to do just a few of the activities in this series, you are making a big difference already.

This time we’re looking at more ways to save energy (read the first article about energy saving here). Activities include one quick win and some longer-term activities to save energy.

If you’re in a role where you can make these long-term changes, start making a plan as to when you can make implement suggestions. Putting a date to it will help you work out what resources are needed and when. If you’re not in a role where you can make all these changes, find out who is and talk to them.

Some things everyone can do:

• Unplug unused phone chargers and other equipment when not in use
• If you have air conditioning, use it wisely. If it is on, keep doors and windows closed. If it is cooling, check that wall heaters are off. And use the thermostat timer setting

Planning for long term sustainability:

• Set a date to install motion sensor lights for storerooms, toilets, staff rooms, etc
• Look at whether you could fit solar panels
• Install insulation where possible
• Choose energy saving models when buying new electrical goods and optical equipment
• Install an energy efficient water pump, boiler or other eco-friendly plumbing and heating options

You could also investigate organising an EPC inspection. This is a thorough inspection of the building, looking at lighting, water, heating, etc. It is normally organised by the building owner, landlord or local council. The premises are then given a rating: A (very efficient) to G (Inefficient).

Do all or any of these activities and you will save energy and cut your bills too.

Stay in touch

Tell us what you’ve done this month – we’d love to see a photo of how you are saving energy. Sharing on social media will help inspire others. Use the hashtag #thinkinggreen and we’ll reshare it. Making great progress? Why not submit a case study about your journey to sustainability?

Remember to pick at least one activity to work on this month; watch out for another article next month with more inspiring sustainable ideas.

This article includes some of the tips that you can get after you complete the Sustainability Self Assessment tool which you can find here. If you haven’t yet done the questionnaire, it is a great place to start your journey to a more sustainable practice in 2022. You can also opt in to get tips to your inbox each week.