NHS Lothian has launched an innovative campaign to encourage staff to save on the energy they use at work. The Power Pack campaign centres on a group of digital characters each promoting a key message to save energy, print less, recycle more and switch-off.
A recent survey showed that 91 per cent of NHS Lothian staff felt they could do more to conserve energy whilst at work. The survey also generated a number of positive suggestions which have been used to help shape the campaign, ranging from double-sided printing and recycling initiatives to rechargeable batteries and car sharing schemes.
Charlie Halpin, Energy and Environment Manager, NHS Lothian, said: “By taking these steps, staff will help NHS Lothian maintain the Carbon Trust Standard and sustaining a reduction in our carbon emissions by four per cent per year over the next five years. Simple tasks like turning off computer monitors overnight or only printing essential documents can make a huge difference. Working together will help us significantly reduce the amount of energy we use and make essential savings for the organisation.”
NHS Lothian spends around £14 million on energy bills and produces 90,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. That works out at £500 and three tonnes of C02 per member of staff.
Kirsten Smith, Senior Charge Nurse, Ward 72, Royal Victoria Building, said: “I’ll definitely be joining the Power Pack. It’s great that staff have the chance to contribute to this campaign and I’ll be putting my thinking cap on to come up with some energy saving ideas of my own.”
Stuart Wilson, Director of Communications and Public Affairs, NHS Lothian, said: “This is an engaging campaign which we hope will grab the attention of the 24,000 employees who work for NHS Lothian. We are keen for all staff to join the Power Pack giving us their own energy saving advice and ideas. Our staff are key to making this campaign a success and continuing our good work in reducing the energy we use at work.”
Dr Charles Winstanley, Chair, NHS Lothian, said: “We are committed to continuing to drive home the message of energy efficiency and hopefully the Power Pack will help to make the difference. We have already reduced our energy emissions from fossil fuels by 5.3% over the past two years and this led to being awarded the Carbon Trust Standard.”
The Western’s recently-opened Royal Victoria Building has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating. The project incorporates a number of initiatives developed to provide an environmentally friendly building: use of photo-voltaic panels, ground source heat pump, low flush WCs, low energy lifts, occupancy and light sensors. The building also achieved a ‘Considerate Contractor’ award – incorporating high level of construction site waste management, and water services are designed to minimise water-borne disease.
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