Switch off and save!

• Training campaign reduces energy consumption by 5 % annually
• Carbon awareness now extending to driving habits

The borough of Redcar and Cleveland in the Tees Valley region of North Yorkshire, England developed a campaign for energy usage in its two main offices: the Town Hall and Redcar and Cleveland House. Following the mantra that 'money is a great motivator', staff received training and tips on how to save energy and reduce carbon emission, while saving the council money. This was considered a very effective message to motivate behavioural change.

The first part of the training was called 'switch it off', which encouraged employees to turn off machines not in use, such as computers, office equipment and lighting. Through bulletins, posters, stickers and online awareness tools, staff received regular reminders.

Key results

Regular checks before and after the campaign launch showed a dramatic increase in the number of staff switching off their equipment. This is believed to have contributed to a 5 % reduction in electricity use overall.

Based on the success of the programme, further awareness campaigns were planned, such as a new focus on improving employee driving habits to reduce fuel consumption and vehicle wear and tear.