{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Reducing Carbon Footprint in Domiciliary Care Office Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} operates in an environmentally responsible manner by minimising its carbon footprint within the domiciliary care office and service delivery operations. Our commitment to sustainability aligns with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations, Welsh Government climate goals, and best practices in environmental sustainability.

We aim to:

• Reduce energy consumption and waste within the office environment.
• Promote sustainable travel and vehicle use in domiciliary care operations.
• Encourage staff engagement in carbon reduction efforts.
• Comply with environmental legislation and promote eco-friendly practices.
• Incorporate sustainable procurement and recycling measures.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including care workers, managers, and administrative staff.
• The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, responsible for ensuring compliance.
• Third-party suppliers, contractors, and external agencies interacting with the business.
• Service users and their families, where applicable, in relation to sustainability awareness.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

• The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, requiring public bodies to act sustainably.
• The Environment (Wales) Act 2016, setting targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• The Climate Change Act 2008, which mandates carbon reduction strategies in Wales.
• CIW Guidelines on Sustainability and Energy Efficiency in Social Care.
• The Waste (Wales) Regulations 2010, governing responsible waste disposal and recycling.

4. Energy Efficiency and Reducing Consumption in the Office

4.1 Reducing Electricity and Heating Usage

To reduce carbon emissions related to energy consumption, {{org_field_name}} will:

• Encourage the use of natural light where possible.
• Install energy-efficient LED lighting and motion sensors in offices and communal spaces.
• Ensure heating systems are used efficiently, keeping temperatures at a recommended 19-21°C in winter.
• Switch off all non-essential electrical equipment when not in use.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Staff training on energy conservation is provided during induction and refresher sessions.
• Monthly office energy audits track and reduce unnecessary consumption.

4.2 Smart Energy Management

• Office computers and printers will be set to energy-saving mode when idle.
• A ‘last person out’ policy ensures all equipment is switched off at the end of the day.
• Smart thermostats and timers will be used to optimise heating and air conditioning.

How we manage this efficiently:

• An assigned sustainability lead oversees energy efficiency improvements.
• Quarterly reports assess progress in reducing energy use.

5. Sustainable Travel and Vehicle Use

5.1 Reducing Carbon Emissions from Work-Related Travel

• Encourage carpooling and public transport use for office-based staff.
• Introduce a cycle-to-work scheme for employees.
• Minimise unnecessary travel by using virtual meetings and digital communication.

5.2 Transitioning to Low-Emission Vehicles

• Where possible, adopt hybrid or electric vehicles for domiciliary care visits.
• Encourage staff to use fuel-efficient driving techniques to reduce emissions.
• Ensure company vehicles are regularly maintained to optimise fuel efficiency.

How we manage this efficiently:

• A travel and emissions log is maintained to monitor vehicle carbon output.
• Staff incentives are offered for using low-carbon travel options.

6. Sustainable Office Procurement and Waste Reduction

6.1 Eco-Friendly Purchasing Practices

• Office supplies must be sourced from sustainable suppliers where possible.
• Use recycled paper and reduce unnecessary printing by encouraging digital documentation.
• Choose refillable and biodegradable products for cleaning and kitchen use.

6.2 Waste Reduction and Recycling

• Implement a strict recycling policy for paper, plastics, and electronics.
• Encourage staff to reduce paper usage by using cloud-based storage and e-signatures.
• Compost biodegradable waste where applicable.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Clear recycling bins and signage are provided in the office.
• A designated waste management officer ensures compliance.

7. Encouraging a Green Workplace Culture

7.1 Staff Engagement and Awareness

• Annual sustainability training for all employees to reinforce eco-friendly practices.
• Encourage staff to submit ideas for improving carbon footprint reduction.
• Organise eco-friendly initiatives, such as tree planting or charity sustainability drives.

7.2 Service User and Community Involvement

• Encourage service users to engage in energy-efficient practices at home.
• Partner with local environmental groups to support green initiatives.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Green Champions are appointed in each department to lead initiatives.
• Sustainability performance updates are included in team meetings.

8. Monitoring and Reporting Progress

8.1 Carbon Footprint Tracking

• Regular assessments of energy, waste, and travel emissions will be conducted.
• Annual carbon footprint reports will be produced, outlining improvements.

8.2 Continuous Improvement

• Action plans will be developed based on environmental impact assessments.
• Feedback from staff and stakeholders will guide future sustainability efforts.

How we manage this efficiently:

• A sustainability dashboard tracks key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Quarterly management meetings review progress and new targets.

9. Related Policies

This policy aligns with:

• Health and Safety Policy (DCW18).
• Procurement and Ethical Sourcing Policy (DCW30).
• Risk Management and Sustainability Policy (DCW35).
• Workplace Well-being and Staff Engagement Policy (DCW22).

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, business needs, or CIW updates. The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual are responsible for ensuring compliance.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.