An organisation has been presented with North Tyneside Council’s first carbon reduction award.
The local authority launched its free Carbon Reduction Award Scheme earlier in the year, designed to help local organisations make a positive difference by reducing their own carbon emissions and tackling climate change.
And thanks to their carbon-cutting measures, New Prospects has been presented with the silver award by Cllr Sandra Graham, cabinet member for Environment at North Tyneside Council.
Based in Whitley Bay, New Prospects has been supporting people with a learning disability and their families for over 25 years – whether they need support for just a few hours a week or for 24-hours a day.
Committed to making a difference to the environment too, the not-for-profit association has been exploring ways to improve its carbon footprint.
The changes have included fitting light motion sensors, working toward being paperless, closing the office on a Friday to undertake community visits, and sharing best practice across the organisation and with service users.
On presenting the award, Cllr Graham said: “I’d like to congratulate and thank New Prospects for all of their efforts.
“With support from our expert Environmental Sustainability team, the award scheme is a brilliant way for organisations to gain a detailed understanding of energy and carbon reduction opportunities in their workplace.
“Those taking part will receive support and resources from our team to help reduce their carbon footprint, becoming more efficient and profitable in the process.
“As a council, we are working towards being carbon net-zero by 2030, but we can’t do this alone. We only directly control two per cent of the borough’s carbon footprint, so we absolutely need the help of our residents and businesses.
“I would really encourage other businesses to find out more and sign up to the scheme.”
There are three tiers to the scheme – bronze, silver and gold – depending on the changes an organisation has made.
Mandy Postle, Head of Operations at New Prospects, said: “Tackling climate change should be something that we all - as organisations, businesses and individuals - take extremely seriously.
“Here at New Prospects, we are really proud to have achieved the silver award through our various activities which will help to make a difference.
“We’ve received a range of support and resources from North Tyneside Council to help us on our climate journey and we’re looking forward to working with them as we now aim for the gold award. I’d really encourage other organisations to find out more – it’s been really beneficial to us.”
Upon award, participants receive a certificate and window display sticker which demonstrates their commitment to carbon reduction. Customers can be assured they are making a sustainable choice with an environmentally conscious organisation.
If you want to sign up or would like further information about the award scheme, please email the Environmental Sustainability team at carbon@northtyneside.gov.uk.
