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CRYSTAL PALACE GREEN BUSINESS CHALLENGE
During 2004 a Green Business Challenge ran in the Crystal Palace Triangle as a fore-runner to ENVIBE. Businesses in the area were encouraged to sign up for the initiative to help promote the area and raise awareness of environmentally-friendly actions. The Green Business Challenge was set up by the Council in partnership with two of ENVIBE’s current partners, Croydon Energy Network and Envirowise.
Businesses from pubs and restaurants, to food stores and hairdressers were asked to commit to at least one environmental improvement such as using less energy, recycling more, saving water, buying green or travelling less. During the campaign:
- Twenty-six businesses signed up to the council’s business glass recycling service and 29 expressed an interest in the new cardboard recycling service.
- More than 50% of staff were using sustainable transport methods for travelling to work such as public transport, walking or cycling.
- Eight businesses took up the offer of a free energy survey and many have taken on board the recommendations such as switching to low energy lightbulbs.
- Over 200 hogs save-a-flushes were distributed amongst the businesses saving a litre of water a time on toilet flushes
- Nine of the area's estate agents handed out energy efficiency homebuyers' guides to prospective buyers. These guides are written by Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp from TV's 'Location Location Location' in association with the Energy Saving Trust - if you would like one, please call 0845 727 7200
Alison McNaught, partner in the Domali Café on Westow Street explained why they were attracted to take part in the scheme. She said: “I think it’s a very good scheme and reflects our whole business ethic. We try to be green within our business but with the help of the council we are able to do more in the way of recycling and saving energy. Anything that helps improve the local area is good for the environment and the community as a whole.” One big change the Domali Café has made has been to switch to a Fairtrade coffee brand which has been welcomed by customers.