Carbon Statement
Pathfinders Support alternative energy solutions that can change the world for the better. Climate Change and Air Pollution costs lives and billions of pounds. It is one of the UK's biggest killers, causing up to 36,000 early deaths in the UK every year. That’s more than obesity or alcohol. Dirty air leads to worsening asthma symptoms, heart disease and even lung cancer. Air pollution has even been associated with changes in the brain linked to dementia and can lead to children growing up with smaller lungs. The wider effects of air pollution include the burden on our health services and business. The costs of illness and days lost from work are estimated to add up to £20bn a year. The benefits of cleaner air would be shared by everybody: reduced traffic congestion, more liveable cities and towns, and fewer days off sick. Cleaning up our air will also help in the fight against climate change, the biggest environmental problem we face. Pathfinders will minimise the impact that the organisation has on the environment in any way it can. We have changed to a Green energy supplier. Lights and electrical goods are switched off when not in use. Our Central heating systems are used sensibly, with the ideal temperatures being set between 18- 22 degrees Celsius. Energy saving lightbulbs are used throughout the organisation.
Our houses are within walking distance of each other and located near all public transport. This enables staff to walk between houses and use public transport to get to work. Staff who choose to drive are encouraged to switch off cars engine when waiting at level crossings or stuck in long traffic queues and to drive at optimal speeds to reduce fuel consumption. We promote alternative travel and transport options where possible, increasing use of public transport and walking or cycling. Whenever possible we buy UK and locally sourced products to reduce contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. We have provided clearly larked recycling containers to encourage staff and young people to recycle as much as possible. We have invested in re-usable food containers with lids to minimise the use of cling film when needing to keep food fresh.
When purchasing new appliances, the most cost-effective and eco-friendly products should be researched. Pathfinders provide reusable mugs and water bottles to discourage staff from purchasing single use water bottles. Disposable water bottles will not be purchased by the organisation. We purchase hand-soap in bulk for distribution to homes for using in refillable soap dispensers. Staff are encouraged to ensure they take our own bags when shopping and encourage young people to do the same. Staff avoid purchasing cheaply produced meats and foods and to look for locally sourced and well reared options. Staff are encouraged to buy seasonal produce where possible and should buy British and local produce when possible, to support the local economy and reduce carbon footprint. Pathfinders will continue to identify improved practices in this area, including sourcing further environmentally friendly and ethical products to replace what might currently be in use.