Environmental literacy articles
Net Zero by 2027 – part 14
This time we look at additional data that we can collect to get a better understanding of our emissions.
We’ve committed to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2027. We’re sharing our progress and how we overcome the questions that arise along the way. This time we look at additional data that we can collect to get a better understanding of our emissions. The initial goal is to begin paying more attention to the (relatively small number of) things we buy for the business. All our inputs lead to greenhouse gas emissions. We also plan to look at the way we store data, and we are going to analyse the waste we generate by carrying out a waste audit.
Net Zero by 2027 – part 13
Here we compare the values from both methods of calculating our carbon footprint. We work through the pros and cons and arrive at a decision about which method to use.
Here we compare the values from both methods of calculating our carbon footprint. We work through the pros and cons and arrive at a decision about which method to use. We are still not absolutely sure which is the correct figure and, if we are not sure, it does not really help the many other small businesses just starting out on this journey. It may be that the emission factors from the government underestimate the scope 3 emissions which may be a reason for under-reporting of this aspect of greenhouse gas emissions.
Net Zero by 2027 – part 12
In this video we describe the steps needed to work through our carbon emissions from first principles.
In this video we describe the steps needed to work through our carbon emissions from first principles. This was more detailed than the on-line calculators. The calculation included factors such as cloud storage and water use, which were not itemised in the Business Carbon Calculator. Using this method, we arrived at a value significantly lower than the result from the Business Calculator. The discrepancies between different methods of calculation are interesting and give us something to talk about. However, they are not helpful for a small business wanting an accurate calculation of their greenhouse gas emissions.
Net Zero by 2027 – part 11
Here we continue our search for free carbon calculators so we can compare their results with those we obtained using the Business Carbon calculator.
Here we continue our search for free carbon calculators so we can compare their results with those we obtained using the Business Carbon calculator. We highlight the difficulties with finding free calculators and without drawbacks such as additional paid for services. Our rationale for this is that we are trying to replicate the position of a small business owner who is, at this stage, information gathering. They are probably unwilling to engage consultants before gathering the information to determine if they need to take further action. Next time, we’ll go back to first principles!
Net Zero by 2027 – part 10
In this next step on our path to Net Zero by 2027, Normative respond to our queries about how to enter our business travel into the calculator.
In this next step on our path to Net Zero by 2027, Normative respond to our queries about how to enter our business travel into the calculator. They confirmed our thoughts and we remind you how we dealt with this issue. We also provide a link to the methodology behind the Business Carbon calculator which they provided. We continue our search for another “ready-reckoner” type calculator for comparison.
Festive food waste
Food waste is a problem all year round and this contributes to climate breakdown. During times of celebration, this is a particular problem.
This is the third and last Suggestion Box video about the environmental impact of festive traditions. Food waste is a problem all year round and this contributes to climate breakdown. During times of celebration, this is a particular problem. In the UK alone, around 270,000 tonnes of festive food waste is created. Here we provide some suggestions to reduce this waste.
Decorations
Karen looks at the items we use to decorate our homes. She offers some suggestions on how to reduce the impact.
This is the second video about the environmental impact of festive traditions. This time, Karen looks at the items we use to decorate our homes. She offers some suggestions on how to reduce the impact. These include changing to low energy lightbulbs and continuing to use old decorations instead of sending them to landfill. She also includes some suggestions for creating new, low impact decorations.
Christmas trees
Some pros and cons of natural trees against their artificial alternatives.
This is the first of three videos in which we explore the environmental impact of festive traditions. This time we look at Christmas trees. Once you have decided that a tree will be part of your celebrations, the next choice to make is the type of tree. Here, we offer some pros and cons of natural trees against their artificial alternatives.
Discuss issues
Ways that you can discuss issues once you have made changes to reduce your own environmental impact.
In this video we suggest ways that you can discuss issues once you have made changes to reduce your own environmental impact. These include questions to ask your friends and family to find out what they know and what action they are taking. You can also find out about climate action groups in your local area.
See also
Gardening
However big or small your outside space might be, in this video we give some suggestions for how you can help the environment when gardening.
However big or small your outside space might be, in this video we give some suggestions for how you can help the environment when gardening. For example, if you only have a windowsill, hang up a bunch of twigs to provide a shelter for pollinators. Plant choices and composting waste are other ways to garden for the planet.
Investments
Karen suggests some checks that you can make to ensure that your investments do not result in harm to the environment.
In this video, Karen suggests some checks that you can make to ensure that your investments do not result in harm to the environment. The activities of fossil fuel companies and chemical manufacturers have a negative effect on the planet. Our investments could be used to fund these companies so it is important that you ask questions about your investments.
Green spaces
Access to green space is beneficial to our well being.
Access to green space is beneficial to our well being. However not everyone has their own green space. Here Karen explores some ways in which we can experience the benefits of green spaces that are accessible to all.
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