Bendigo Bank and climate change partnership Carbon Down have joined forces to encourage Victorian businesses to reduce their energy use for the dual benefit of protecting against energy price rises and reducing their carbon footprint.
Electricity use accounted for more than 70 percent of an average business’ carbon footprint, said Trudy Ellery, Bendigo Bank’s head of Environment and Sustainability, and simple changes could reduce energy consumption and save money.
Devices left in standby mode alone accounted for more than six percent of commercial electricity usage to the tune of $588 million a year, she added.
“Many Australians businesses are inclined to leave their appliances on standby without realising the significant impact that standby power has on their energy consumption and power bills,” said Ellery.
“By changing everyday habits at work, there’s plenty of scope for businesses to cut down on power, save money and reduce their carbon footprint.”
To support businesses switching off, Bendigo Bank has launched its Generation Green Energy Saver Initiative, which offers the chance to win $10,000. To participate, Victorian businesses need to visit the Generation Green website (www.bendigobank.com.au/generationgreen) and share their organisation’s energy-saving advice.
The first 5,000 entrants will receive an energy saving power board with a retail value of $49.95. The most innovative response will take home $10,000 to spend on improving energy efficiency, with second prize $5,000 worth of Bendigo Bank Financial Planning Advice and Services and third prize a Business Energy Assessment from VECCI Sustainability Services valued at $1,000.
Entries close at midnight on Tuesday 31 May 2011.
Carbon Down is a partnership between the Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) and the Victorian Government.
