Across the organisation we are pushing forward with a number of initiatives to help achieve our aim of net zero carbon by 2040. From the installation of solar panels, to the reduction of CO2 emissions across our vehicle fleet and waste management solutions at our services, there are a number of environmental activities underway with more in plan for the future.
Using technology to drive a greener, cleaner, safer fleet
In 2020 Cygnet introduced vehicle tracking and driver training devices, called ‘Lightfoot’, in all company-owned vehicles. The devices have had a proven outcome of lowering emissions, saving fuel, reducing accidents and ensuring the safe, comfortable transfer of service users.
In its first two years, the ‘Lightfoot’ system reduced CO2 emissions by 122 tonnes across our vehicle fleet, which is the equivalent of:
- 434,000 washing machine cycles
- Boiling the kettle more than 2 million times
- The weight of 189 polar bears
With 1000+ drivers across Cygnet the project has also incentivised our drivers to adopt safer, more environmentally-friendly driving styles.
From a pilot across 20 sites, ‘Lightfoot’ has now been implemented across all 150 Cygnet sites and shortlisted as a finalist in the Environmental Sustainability Project of the Year at the HSJ Partnership Awards 2023.
Electric vehicles
From the rich data that Lightfoot provides we have also been able to confidently replace petrol and diesel vehicles with suitable electric vehicles. Our aim is to replace our entire fleet with electric vehicles by 2032 and this programme is now well underway with 15 new electric vehicles joining our fleet in Spring 2023.
Solar Panels
In 2022 Cygnet completed the installation of solar panels at five of our top 22 electricity usage sites. The solar energy now accounts for approximately one-quarter of the electricity at each of those sites.
In just one site, the CO2 emissions that are avoided equate to 21,631kg per year or 21.63 tonnes. This is equivalent to 865 trees being planted.
Installation of solar panels at all 22 sites is expected to be completed by April 2023.
In addition to our own solar installation programme, 100% of electricity procured by Cygnet is renewable.
Waste & recycling
Waste recycling increased from 16% in 2019 to 31% in 2022. This is due to initiatives such as our ‘Right size, right shape’ project, in partnership with our waste management provider, which monitors the recycling habits across sites and supports greater awareness and action.
Cooking oil recycling and removal of black plastics
Cygnet Health Care facilities recycle cooking oil and in 2022 we recycled more than 5.84 tonnes of cooking oil into biodiesel.
We have also removed all black plastic from our food supplies.
We can all play a part
There are steps we can all take at home and work to help the environment, be more sustainable and save energy.