The British High Commission has succeeded in slashing its carbon footprint by more than 10% from 2009 to 2010. The reduction to a level of 456 CO2 tonnes is equivalent to the amount of CO2 absorbed by 1,980 maple trees over a 25 year period. This achievement is part of the diplomatic mission’s aim to ‘green’ its operations and reduce its energy usage by 10% in 2010 – the 10:10 challenge.
![British High Commission Green Team June 2011](https://www.bajanreporter.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/British-High-Commission-Green-Team-June-2011-300x225.jpg)
Reduced energy consumption at Barbados’ High Commission properties came about from a smaller vehicle fleet, more efficient technology (including more efficient air conditioning units) and better practices, and most significantly from a move to flying economy on long haul flights: economy travel generates up to 30% fewer carbon emissions. This reduction alone generated 48 CO2 tonnes of savings.
Members of the High Commission staff – the Green Team – brainstormed ideas of how to save energy, and they achieved reductions in energy usage both at the office and at the official residence, Ben Mar.
The recipient of the first Green Barbados award from , the High Commission will not rest on its achievements, but is looking to reduce further its impact on the climate. New initiatives include the installation of motion sensor lighting, greater levels of recycling and a move towards photo-voltaic generated electricity.
Leave a Reply