Gotelee has become the first business in Suffolk to receive the Suffolk Carbon Charter at Gold level.
The Charter provides businesses with recognition for the work they are doing to reduce their energy consumption. This enables businesses with genuine green credentials to share their achievements with their customers, staff and suppliers.
Following an independent audit, Gotelee were awarded the Gold Charter, which shows that they are acting as environmental ambassadors, influencing their customers, supply chain or the wider community, in addition to having made significant reductions in their own carbon footprint. This accreditation lasts for one year.
Sallie Davies, an employment solicitor who champions Gotelee's green agenda, was delighted with the news; "This is terrific recognition of the efforts our staff have made. We achieved huge cuts in energy consumption by making small adjustments and thinking carefully about how we use resources. It shows that office-based businesses can make a contribution to tackle climate change. Just think of the impact if all the offices in Suffolk cut consumption by 30% as we have done."
The Gold Charter was awarded to Gotelee in recognition of the dramatic achievements they have made in reducing their own energy consumption, reflected in a 35 % reduction in electricity use, and a 30% reduction in gas use. Gotelee have adopted a clear and publicly visible environmental policy, which is overseen by a ‘Green Committee’ from within their staff.
As signatories of the Legal Sector Alliance, and through staff training events, and sustainable procurement practices, Gotelee demonstrate their commitment to reducing carbon beyond their own emissions. The Charter is recognition of the role they play in the goal of Creating the Greenest County.
Cllr. Judy Terry, Suffolk County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Greenest County, welcomed the new Charter as a valuable support for local businesses, saying: "The challenge of Climate Change is something that we all need to take into account – whether we’re at home or at work. This Charter will allow businesses to show their customers and staff that they are playing their part in creating the Greenest County whilst also making savings.
“Unlike many available environmental charters, this scheme is aimed primarily at small businesses, and its requirements reflect the business’ size and current circumstances. This means that Carbon Charter accreditation is a realistic goal for any Suffolk business”.