A sustainable future for all
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, many businesses are striving to become more sustainable.
At GA we are 100% behind this and are taking significant action to improve our sustainability efforts and achieve our long-term goal of reaching zero emissions. This has included setting up a ‘carbon reduction committee’, evaluating all our day-to-day operations and implementing a range of initiatives that will help us manage energy efficiently and responsibly.
The carbon reduction committee
In late 2022, we announced an ambitious sustainability plan. The firm is taking a comprehensive approach, looking at every aspect of its operations to identify ways to reduce our carbon footprint.
The committee is run by managing partner David Wallis and attended by head of employment Rob Zacal, partner Matthew Rose, marketing executive Yasmin Thomas, and head of GA Energy Helen Rumford. The group produces forward-thinking strategies and identifies opportunities to reduce our carbon footprint. The committee also manages a firm-wide forum, allowing all GA employees to have their say and ensure as many people as possible can put forward ideas and have an impact.
So, what exactly are we doing?
- We have partnered with SWMAS to undertake a formal assessment of our carbon footprint so that we can calculate our baseline. Where do we fit against other businesses? How and where can we improve?
- Waste management practices:
- We are transitioning to a more paperless office including reducing the number of files stored and thus printing needed
- We recycle all possible paper products that are used. Even our confidential waste is taken away and recycled securely
- Individual waste bins are being removed, with more recycling bins (with prominent signage) being placed around all floors of the office
- Made changes to our case management systems to remove print options in many areas to limit printing
- We have ceased printing business cards, and instead use an online, phone application, saving the printing of hundreds of business cards each year
- Water consumption:
- Zip taps have been fitted to all floors to reduce water wastage and also the energy needed to heat water which is not used
- Our use of water coolers has been reviewed and limited, with only recyclable, paper cups provided
- We have installed energy-efficient, sensor-driven lighting with energy-efficient light bulbs
- When choosing new suppliers we ensure they are as sustainable as possible
- Introduced a salary sacrifice ‘cycle to work’ scheme, encouraging people to leave their cars at home
- We encourage a culture of sustainability and sustainable decision-making, through awareness-raising events, information on our intranet system and accessibility to staff and their ideas
- All merchandise is bought from environmentally friendly sources to ensure the content is bio-degradable or recyclable
- Working with various organisations on taking part in environmental projects and rewarding staff for attending including beach clean-ups
Plymouth Plastic Free Directory
We are proud to announce that we are listed on the Plymouth Plastic Free directory. The directory is part of the Plymouth Plan for Plastics – the Plymouth City Council initiative that drives the Plastic Free Plymouth mission.
By taking these steps, GA Solicitors is setting an example for other law firms to follow. We are showing that it is possible to be a successful business while also being environmentally responsible. With our commitment to sustainability, we are demonstrating that climate change can be addressed in the workplace.
David Wallis will be speaking at Devon & Plymouth Chamber’s Green Networking Breakfast on 25th May to talk to other local businesses about what we are trying to achieve and how.
Keep visiting our website to hear more about our journey to zero emissions.
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