Mercy Community is heading towards a cleaner, greener future with LED lighting and a new solar energy project now underway.
With World Sustainable Energy Days 2024 highlighting a need for fast, smart, and resilient power solutions, we are proud to be playing our part – not only as a torchbearer for the People and Planet Initiative but by embracing cutting edge technology.
The latest figures reveal just over 75% of our sites have now been converted to energy-efficient LED lighting – heading towards a target of 90% by the start of 2026.
Meanwhile, work has begun to develop suitable options for an exciting solar initiative.
Mercy Community’s Chief Risk Officer Tim Nayton said the move towards greater organisational sustainability was essential.
“Our goal is not to just care for people, but to also care for the planet they inhabit,” he said.
“The solar project will contribute to a significant reduction in carbon emissions and aligns with our values of environmental stewardship and responsible resource use.
“Lighting also plays an important role in reducing our carbon footprint as well as creating a conducive and comfortable living space for our aged care residents.
“With LED lighting we are not just illuminating spaces for the well-being of residents; we are making a conscious choice towards energy efficiency.
“It’s a tangible step towards a more sustainable future and demonstrates Mercy Community’s commitment to the People and Planet Initiative.”
LED lighting boasts numerous benefits, including significantly lower energy consumption, longer lifespan, and reduced environmental impact.
Mercy Community’s LED bulbs are progressively replacing traditional bulbs across all facilities.
Mr Nayton said: “When a bulb goes, we change it with an LED one if the fixture will permit, and when a light fixture itself fails we replace it with an LED fixture.
“We estimate this progressive process will see us reach our 90% target within the next two years, embracing a brighter and greener tomorrow for everyone.
“Our residents deserve the best, and the best includes a living environment that respects and nurtures their well-being.
“By incorporating sustainable practices, we are not just caring for the people under our roof but also acknowledging our responsibility to the planet we all call home.”
The World Sustainable Energy Days (WSED) 2024 is an event organised by the Upper Austria Regional Energy Agency.
Scheduled from 5 to 8 March in Wels, Austria, it aims to tackle global energy challenges, such as price fluctuations, geopolitical instabilities, and the ongoing climate crisis.
Top tips to reduce your energy consumption
Reducing energy consumption not only helps the environment but can also lead to cost savings.
Here’s some tips to help you get started:
- Switch to LED bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. They use less energy and last longer.
- Unplug devices: Many electronics consume energy even when turned off. Unplug chargers, appliances, and electronics when not in use.
- Upgrade appliances: Invest in Energy Star-rated appliances, which are designed to be more energy-efficient.
- Use smart power boards: Plug multiple devices into a smart power board to easily cut off power to all devices when they're not in use.
- Optimise heating and cooling: Keep heating and cooling systems well-maintained, and clean or replace air filters regularly.
- Conserve water: Use energy-efficient appliances like low-flow showerheads and washing machines to reduce the energy needed to heat water.
- Air dry clothes: Skip the dryer and air-dry clothes to save energy. If you use a dryer, clean the lint filter regularly for optimal efficiency.
- Plant shade trees: Strategically plant trees around your home to provide natural shade, reducing the need for air conditioning.
- Opt for solar energy: If possible, consider using installing solar panels.
- Turn off lights: Develop a habit of turning off lights when leaving a room. Consider using motion-sensor lights in areas with less frequent traffic.
- Cook efficiently: Use lids on pots and pans while cooking, match the size of the cookware to the burner, and consider using a microwave or slow cooker, which can be more energy-efficient than an oven.
- Upgrade water heater: If your water heater is old, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model or installing a tankless water heater.
- Limit hot water usage: Use cold water for laundry when possible and limit hot water usage.
- Educate and involve family: Raise awareness within your household about energy-saving practices and involve everyone in making conscious efforts to cut energy consumption.
Click here to learn more about Mercy Community’s People and Planet initiative.
