Environmental policy statement
Education for Change is a consultancy, project management and research company. We occupy small offices to which electricity and water are supplied through another tenant of the building. However, we aim to be socially responsible and environmentally friendly in our use of those resources over which we have control. We expect the same of our partners and sub-contractors and will draw this policy statement to their attention.
The main environmental impact of the company is in its use of air travel which EfC recognises as harmful and aims to keep to a minimum. Directors and staff of EfC are committed to conserving resources and minimising harm to the environment as far as is compatible with our international work commitments.
EfC will:
- offset carbon emissions from unavoidable staff flights by making payments to Climate Care for investment in CO2 reduction projects that combat climate change and benefit local communities.
- encourage the use of public transport by not providing company cars or subsidising private car use by paying generous mileage rates
- provide interest-free cycle loans for staff
- dispose of redundant IT equipment by donating it to Oxfam or Computer Aid International. In so doing we conform with the requirements of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
- recycle used toner cartridges and mobile phones through the Scope recycling appeal www.recyclingappeal.com/scope that also raises funds for the charity
- routinely conduct business electronically rather than on paper
- use paper made from a minimum of 80% recovered waste
- discourage printing of emails and single-sided printing. Paper that cannot be reused will be taken to public recycling bins. Collection points for recycled paper are visibly located close to computers and printers
- minimise paper waste by using china cups/plates and fabric towels
- agree an office cleaning contraction points for recycled paper are visibly located close to computers and printers
- minimise paper waste by using china cups/plates and fabric towels
- agree an office cleaning contract that minimises the use of potential pollutants
- central heating will be operated by timers and set to run as low as is comfortable and efficient
This policy is endorsed by the company Directors and all staff have been involved in its development. Day-to-day operation is overseen by the office manager. It will be reviewed annually.
Julie Carpenter, Director
Date: 5 September, 2007