In the latest 'Optical Plant Matters' blog post by OPT Services, we examine Environmental Responsibility and how companies like OPT Services can play their part.
In our modern world, where the pressing concern of climate change casts a shadow over us, the need for businesses to embrace environmentally responsible practices becomes more crucial than ever. Among the ranks of those responsible enterprises taking a stand on this is the team at OPT Services. Our agile and dedicated team has taken a number of initiatives to improve our sustainability and reduce our environmental impacts.
Products and Packaging
Fibre Locking Device: One notable stride taken by us at OPT Services involves our unique approach to packaging. A significant transformation has occurred as we bid farewell to all plastic packaging used for our FLD/ACD. This change alone has yielded a remarkable outcome, preventing over 700 kilograms of plastic waste from entering the landfill—a testament to our commitment to the planet.
Fibre Stripping Tool Cassettes: As a company, we have implemented an efficient blade replacement policy on the cassettes in our fibre stripping tools that focuses on minimizing waste. In cases where a blade becomes damaged or worn out, the approach involves replacing only the blade (which can then be recycled). The unique design of our tools allows this initiative to flourish. This strategy significantly reduces the quantity of discarded materials, contributing to a more environmentally responsible practice by avoiding unnecessary landfill disposal.
Reusing Packaging: As we have already seen, we at OPT Services are all about eco-friendly packaging. Taking it a stage further, we reuse old boxes and packaging from previous orders and shipments. This smart move cuts down on the need for new materials and shows how serious we are about being green. Where-ever possible we will reuse existing or sell on our unused pallets. It's like we're proving that being practical can also be great for the environment!
Recyclable Materials: A significant stride has been made in adopting recyclable materials for 80% of our product range and packaging up to this point. As we set our sights on the path ahead, OPT Services’ dedicated efforts are directed towards the ambitious objective of achieving complete recyclability, encompassing the entirety of their product line.
Sustainable Travel
Cycle to Work: We also advocate for alternative transportation wherever possible. The "cycle to work" initiative has gained great traction, encouraging employees to opt for bicycles rather than cars. The result has been the adoption of a more sustainable mode of commuting by several staff members.
Video/Phone Conferencing: Whenever feasible, we prioritize the utilization of technologies like video and phone conferencing for our meetings, aiming to decrease the need for unnecessary travel. This approach enables us to maintain productive communication with both clients and suppliers, all while effectively curbing additional carbon emissions.
Signage
Good Practices: Within our premises, signs serve as gentle reminders to employees to take part in eco-friendly behaviours. These range from turning off lights when not needed, to the adjustment of indoor heating during winter months, contributing to energy conservation and a smaller carbon footprint.
Environmental Policies: We have placed posters within our premises to inform both employees and visiting customers about our various environmental initiatives. These posters highlight initiatives like the cycle-to-work scheme and prominently display the environmental policy. This policy not only outlines the current sustainability efforts but also outlines our future plans, demonstrating our commitment to ongoing environmentally conscious actions.
New Equipment
IT Equipment: At OPT Services we are taking significant steps to reduce our environmental impact. By opting for lower-power laptops instead of energy-inefficient PCs, we're actively minimizing our carbon footprint. Additionally, our commitment to sustainability extends to our procurement practices, with a focus on refurbished office and IT equipment. This not only breathes new life into older devices and appliances, but also aligns with our eco-conscious values.
Motion Sensing Lights:
No one has to remember to turn out the lights at OPT Services, it happens automatically. All our offices and communal areas include these energy efficient upgrades. When the motion sensor detects people nearby, it will turn on the lights. When the motion sensor detects no people around, it will turn off the light thus reducing our electricity consumption.
Infrared Heaters: During the winter months, we have also made strides in energy efficiency. Our adoption of energy-efficient Infrared Heaters has led to substantial reductions in energy consumption. This smart approach not only cuts down on wastage by only heating occupied spaces but also ensures that people in the room remain comfortably warm without compromising our sustainability goals.
Green Mark
In recognition of our comprehensive approach to sustainability, OPT Services has earned the Green Mark Level 1 certification. This recognition is not merely a badge but reflects our genuine commitment. It signifies not only compliance with established environmental norms, but also we have a forward-looking plan encompassing waste reduction, prudent energy usage, and mindful water and gas consumption.
Looking Forward
Suppliers: At OPT Services we employ a methodical approach in the selection of new suppliers. This involves us thoroughly assessing whether potential suppliers have a readily accessible environmental policy and we consider their proximity to our HQ and offices. This strategic method guarantees that our business choices are in line with environmental considerations, favouring options that result in the least overall carbon footprint. We are proud to display the Made in Britain logo on our website, documentation and products.
Suggestions: Within the organization, all our staff members are actively encouraged to contribute ideas for bolstering environmental impacts. Each proposal undergoes a feasibility evaluation before being put into practice, leading to the implementation of numerous suggestions. This inclusive process ensures that every individual within our team has a voice, resulting in a continuous influx of ideas that drive progress towards a more ecologically conscious future.
Action Plan: We maintain a centralised action plan, outlining our initiatives aimed at advancing environmentally conscious practices. This document serves as a repository for proposed ideas, each accompanied by an estimated completion date and an assigned individual responsible for its execution. Through this structured approach, we ensure a steady trajectory in its pursuit of environmental enhancement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we believe that OPT Services stands as a commendable exemplar of a business actively aligning ourselves with the urgent call for environmental stewardship. Our initiatives—ranging from impactful packaging reform, through employee-centered encouragement, to the acquisition of a noteworthy certification—collectively form a portrait of a business that is both attuned to the needs of our planet and dedicated to a sustainable future.
OPT Services are product specialists for fibre networks. We sell a range of fibre optic cable preparation tools and fibre management products. We also provide storage and logistics, alongside product development, graphic design, plus cable installation and assessment capabilities. Contact us now for more details.
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