The News Green News Staff leave their green credentials at home shows government research
20 November 2009
Staff are leaving their green credentials at home when they go to work, according to government-sponsored research.
A survey by Tickbox.net/Opinion Matters completed on behalf of the Central Office of Information (COI) highlights how attitudes towards recycling and energy saving differ between the home and the workplace.
For instance, just over 40% of people said they recycled plastics at home but not at work, with women being the worst culprits. Similarly, other poor workplace practises include unnecessarily printing out emails (21%) and putting recyclable items into the non-recycling bin (21%).
The impact isn’t simply on the environment though. Defra figures indicate that UK businesses could save £6.4bn each year by implementing resource efficiency measures that are of no or very low cost.
Simple steps such as turning down thermostats, turning off lights, turning off office equipment and addressing dripping taps can help Britain’s businesses to save money and be more environmentally friendly, said the COI.
Environment ministry Defra launched a campaign this month to urge small businesses to cut down on waste, and reduce energy and water use, in order to reap the financial benefits.
Environment secretary Hilary Benn said, "Finding ways to save money will help businesses retain a competitive edge. Being sustainable is now essential - for your bottom line and for the environment. Resource efficiency is the future for all businesses, large and small."
The research for COI was carried out online among 832 UK adults.
