Earth Hour 2011
As millions around the world prepare to switch off on Saturday evening, we look at what DCMS is doing to be more sustainable.
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is urging individuals and organisations around the world to switch off their lights at 8.30 pm tomorrow to mark Earth Hour.
The annual event aims to raise awareness of sustainability issues and encourage people to reduce their impact on the planet all year round and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has been doing its bit to reduce its environmental impact over the past 12 months.
Electricity is provided wholly by green energy sources. Ninety-eight per cent of the lighting in the department’s headquarters is activated by presence detectors to avoid unnecessary electricity use and security staff ensure that appliances such as monitors are switched off at the end of the day.
Recycling bins for paper, card, glass, aluminium and plastic are provided throughout the building and printers and photocopiers use 100% recycled paper. Printers also default to double-sided printing to save paper.
Employees are also encouraged to use environmentally-friendly methods of transport such as bicycles through the provision of cycle parking, changing areas and a free towel service.