Hotel Desk, a small business based in Wilmslow, Cheshire, have recently achieved the Environmental Management System standard BS 8555 Phase 3 with the help of Groundwork Cheshire.
This standard not only reflects their conscientious approach and dedication towards increasingly prevalent environmental issues, but there are also direct business benefits too, as many larger companies are looking for increased commitment in this area from its suppliers. Over the last 2 years Hotel Desk have been monitoring and measuring their electricity usage through the implementation of BS 8555. By using it as a key environmental indicator they have managed to save up to 16% on their electricity costs simply by introducing a turn off scheme for any lights and electrical equipment which are not being used and ensuring that everything is switched off at night and during the weekends. They are now also recycling more of their waste, such as cardboard, plastic, paper, tin and ink cartridges rather than sending them to landfill. By doing this they have managed to save 30% on their waste disposal costs.
Matt Egan, Managing Director of Hotel Desk says: "Many small businesses simply do not have the time or resources to commit to these standards, however at Hotel Desk we believe any associated costs are far outweighed by the benefits - both ethically and financially."