Ecohouse

An eco-friendly business in St Agnes which is already recognised for its commitment to a sustainable future, is pledging to reduce its carbon footprint by another 10% in 2010

Ecohouse designs and builds energy efficient homes in Cornwall.

From the company’s launch in 2004, director Robin van der Bij was fully aware that you could not run a business offering such a service without first having examined your own impact on the environment.

As a result, energy saving and environmentally friendly systems have been in place in the company from day one.

Now as a response to the recently launched 10:10 campaign the company is hoping to go a step further.

“Today we're joining thousands of individuals and organisations from across the country to unite behind one simple idea: a 10% cut in carbon emissions during 2010. It’s called 10:10.

“Cutting 10% in one year is a bold target, but for most of us it’s an achievable
one, and is in line with what scientists say we need right now.

“By signing up to 10:10 we’re not just promising to reduce our own emissions – we’re becoming part of a national drive to hit this ambitious goal in every sector of society.”

In the last year the company has expanded and moved from a home office environment in a purpose built ecohouse, with solar panels delivering hot water, high levels of insulation and energy efficient lighting.

At their new office, at Wheal Kitty in St Agnes, the company takes every opportunity to minimise their energy use, switching off lights and electronic equipment when not in use, staff are used to recycling all paper and cartridges, and they only print documents when absolutely necessary.

So how can they improve on their carbon impact within the budgetary constraints of a small business and without restricting growth?

“We are currently running four building sites around Cornwall, with others due to start in the next few months. Needing to be on sites most days of the week means our largest carbon demand is through motor fuels.

“In response we are investing in the most fuel efficient car on the market, a white Smart car. It has a combined mpg of 80. This will not only reduce the environmental cost of our motoring down by 25% but will also save us a considerable amount in money too. We will also be having it sign-written as part of a rebranding project for Ecohouse.”

The success of 10:10 depends on getting everyone involved in making it
happen, and the 10:10 website has all the tools you need to pass the message on far and wide.

Robin says: “We need to start spreading the word to everyone. We are pledging this reduction as a company but we are also inviting our clients, suppliers, employees and subcontractors to take part too.

“It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of a huge problem like climate change, but by bringing everyone together to take action collectively, 10:10 enables all of us to make a meaningful difference. It’s the perfect opportunity to find out what’s possible when we work together.”

For more information visit 1010.org