TREADING LIGHTLY:
MINDING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

Our Carbon Footprint is the sum of all greenhouse gasses emitted by an organisation, event, product or person in a given time frame. It is important that everyone in the DAC understands the meaning and implications of our carbon footprint and actively participate in environmental actions.

Building a greener DAC

A Green Building is a building which incorporates energy efficient, resource efficient and environmentally responsible designs, construction and operational practices to reduce or eliminate its negative impact on the environment and its occupants.

Green building professionals will be appointed to manage future building projects. Design and construction of new buildings and facilities will incorporate energy-efficient lighting and ventilation and adhere to environmentally friendly waste and building practices. Renewable energy sources will also be integrated to limit environmental impact. Existing governmental buildings will be retrofitted with energy saving devices to reduce energy usage by up to 50%, limit greenhouse gas emissions and cut energy costs.

Reducing yóúr carbon footprint

Simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your CO2 emissions and environmental impact. Start making a difference today! It will not take long to adjust your habits and make a real difference to the environment.

• Switch off lights, and unplug chargers and equipment when they aren't in use. Lighting an average-sized office overnight wastes enough electricity to make 1000 hot drinks and chargers can use up 95% energy even when they're no longer attached to a device.
• Minimise your reliance on heaters and air-conditioning. If it's too hot - open the windows and let the breeze in. If it's too cold - wear a jersey or a blanket to warm you.
• Print responsibly: Printing is often unnecessary and a waste of both paper and electricity. Think before you print and only print the pages you need.
• Recycle and reduce waste. Set up recycling bins for all your different consumables, including paper, glass, soft metals and plastic.
• Buy energy-efficient equipment and appliances. Look out for the Energy Saving Recommended logo when buying equipment. The Energy Star Rating denotes the most energy efficient product. Electrical appliances are rated A-G, with A being the most energy efficient.

Watch out for the Conference of Parties on climate change (COP 17) which will be hosted by the South African Government in Durban in November and December 2011. The conference seeks to assess progress in dealing with climate change and issues relating to the reduction of carbon emissions.