Sustainability Policy
April 2024 – Overview
I want to take this first opportunity to ensure anyone reading this doesn’t just think this is a generic policy or AI written version to tick a box for us as a company. It genuinely is something close to our hearts as most of the company has been born and grown up in or around the Lake District. It’s our playground and we want to ensure it stays like this for the next generation. So, we are committed to promoting sustainability in all aspects of our operations. As a smart home, security and energy company, we recognise the importance of minimising our environmental impact and contributing to a greener future. This sustainability policy outlines our principles and goals to ensure the integration of sustainability practices into our business.
Environmental Responsibility
1.1 Energy Efficiency:
We prioritise the use of energy-efficient products and solutions in our smart home installations. We strive to promote the adoption of smart technologies that optimise energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to overall energy efficiency. In 2022 we launched the offering of Solar PV and battery storage solutions to our clients, working hand in hand with their smart systems to further reduce energy consumption. In 2023 we signed a contract to share our office space with a mechanical company to save the need of heating and lighting two spaces when we can all fit into one. Now we continue to work together discussing and testing different systems and their benefits before offering them as solutions.
1.2 Waste Management:
We are constantly mindful about our responsibility regarding waste management. This includes recycling and proper disposal of electronic waste, packaging materials, and other materials generated during our installations. We actively promote the use of recyclable or biodegradable materials whenever possible. Our offices and workshop have recycling bins to further ensure all waste leaving our office goes through the correct channels in the hope of being reused.
1.3 Electric Fleet:
By 2030, we aim to transition our entire fleet to electric vehicles. We have already begun this process in the procurement of electric cars, however our vans are a little more tricky. At the time of writing this there just isn’t a van on the market capable of the weight and mileage we require to service the Lake District. We are constantly researching this however and aim to stick to the 2030 deadline. This initiative will help reduce our carbon emissions, improve air quality, and support the transition to a low-carbon transportation system. In the meantime, with all our other changes we aim to carbon neutral before this date.
Social Responsibility
2.1 Ethical Sourcing:
We want to partner with suppliers and manufacturers who adhere to ethical and sustainable practices. We aim to source products that are produced responsibly to reduce the use of damaging materials. We aim to purchase from suppliers and manufacturers using recycled fibre, recycled low-density polyethylene (PE-LD), reinforced paper tape and recycled paper fibre.
Continuous Improvement
3.1 Monitoring:
We regularly monitor and measure our sustainability performance to identify areas for improvement. This includes tracking energy usage, waste generation, and fleet emissions. We set specific targets to reduce our environmental impact. We also implement all new systems where possible with remote monitoring, meaning we can proactively repair systems from our office negating the need of driving a van to site.
3.2 Innovation and Research:
We invest in research and development to explore new technologies, materials, and practices that align with sustainability goals. We actively seek partnerships and collaborations to drive innovation in the smart home industry and contribute to sustainable solutions.
3.3 Compliance:
We ensure compliance with applicable environmental laws, regulations, and standards. We strive to exceed these requirements whenever possible. We have started making our changes to certification for B Corp, reading their guidelines and statements and implementing them where possible.
Communication and Transparency
4.1 Stakeholder Engagement:
We engage with our stakeholders, including customers, employees, and suppliers to foster open communication about our sustainability initiatives and encourage their input and feedback. We give 1% of our card payment profits to the Carbon Trust.
4.2 Awareness and Education:
We’ll raise awareness about sustainability through various communication channels, including our website, social media platforms, and marketing materials. We aim to educate our customers and the general public about the environmental benefits and long-term value of green smart homes.
Matt Holmes, Managing Director.
