Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has been reaccredited as an organisation that has made reductions in carbon emissions

Three years ago, the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service joined only one other fire and rescue service in the UK in providing the necessary proofs to the Carbon Trust Standard to be accredited as an organisation shown to have taken practical action in making genuine reductions in their carbon emissions to fight against climate change.

County Councillor Shelagh Derwent, the Lancashire Combined Fire Authority Environment Member Champion, describes climate change as "one of the biggest issues we face in the 21st Century. The Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's contribution to environmental protection is considerable, ranging from the magnificent work it does to prevent fires and reduce their impact on the environment when they occur, to its introduction of a fleet of fire engines powered by the latest generation of low-emission powerplants."

Lancashire's Chief Fire Officer, Peter Holland, adds: "Recertifying under the Carbon Trust Standard has enabled us to identify new areas to increase carbon efficiency; bringing tangible and significant cost savings to our operations. With our carbon reduction strategies now coming of age through the recertification of the Carbon Trust Standard, we plan to continue to renew our commitment to tacking action on climate change."

To achieve the Carbon Trust Standard, the Service has been required to:

  • Measure its carbon footprint, including electricity and gas consumption and fuel consumption of its vehicles
  • Achieve an absolute reduction in emissions of 2.5%
  • Provide evidence that the service is managing carbon in an appropriate manner through effective governance procedures, accurate carbon accounting and carbon management programmes.

Harry Morrison, General Manager, the Carbon Trust Standard said: "We are delighted to recertify the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's ongoing commitment to carbon reduction. Their ability to seek out new areas to improve energy efficiency proves that, with the right level of skills, tenacity, and support, it's possible to improve carbon efficiency year-on-year - which has a hugely positive effect on the organisation."

The Standard is valid for two years following which a re-assessment will be undertaken.

See more at: www.carbontruststandard.com  

 

Posted September 12th, 2011 at 0955 by Andrew. Comment by emailing: andrew.lynch@pavpub.com