Knights of Old Looks to the Future with Low Carbon Champion
July 2011
In partnership with The University of Northampton, Knights of Old has employed a Low Carbon Champion to help in further reducing the company’s impact on the environment.
The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) began between the two organisations in February when graduate, Helen Coulthard, joined the transport and logistics company, focusing on reviewing its environmental policy and reducing Knights of Old’s carbon footprint.
Ian Beattie, Managing Director said: “We have a firm commitment and sense of responsibility towards the environment and recognise that minimising waste and saving energy is an essential part of business practice.
“We now want to look further and deeper into how we run our business and what impact we have on our staff and our surroundings. With the business able to access the expertise of the academics at the University of Northampton and take on a graduate dedicated to review this important area for us, a KTP seems the ideal option for us.”
Already Knights of Old has numerous procedures and initiatives in place but to enhance this, Helen has been tasked with investigating ways of reducing the company’s overall production of greenhouse gases, noise pollution and waste of natural products.
Ian continues: “As well as our carbon footprint, Helen will look at reviewing other aspects of the business including recycling of paper, shrink-wrap, pallets and water as well as increasing staff awareness through internal communications and educational workshops.”
Knights of Old recently launched their ‘Words of Wisdom’ initiative which through internal marketing staff are advised, encouraged and informed on matters such as the Environment, Health & Safety, Business Compliance and Quality. Helen has worked alongside the marketing department to ensure that the messages hit the key environmental issues and are as effective as possible.
Helen Coulthard, Low Carbon Champion, Knights of Old said: “The KTP between Knights of Old and the University of Northampton is a fantastic way for the corporate and graduate worlds to meet. I am learning about a new industry whilst utilising my knowledge to aid the company’s future position. By changing even the smallest things such as office recycling methods and the utility tariffs, through to helping develop sustainable supply chain policies with our customers, Knights of Old will cultivate a positive environmental culture throughout the business.”