Positive Steps: Introduction
Welcome to this week’s edition of Positive Steps, brought to you by Play It Green! Amidst a sea of headlines that often seem to darken our doors with news of challenges and setbacks, we’re here to bring a refreshing wave of optimism and progress. Every week, we shine a light on the incredible efforts of individuals, communities, and businesses around the globe. People and businesses who are making significant strides towards a more sustainable and green future.
From innovative breakthroughs in green technology to inspiring stories of communities coming together for a common cause, our mission is to uplift and inspire. We believe in the power of positive change, and through these stories, we hope to encourage every member of our community to take heart and consider how they, too, can contribute to making our world a better place. Let’s dive into the good news and celebrate the positive changes happening across our planet!
Positive Steps: Manchester City Aims to Lead the Way in Green Energy
Manchester City is pioneering a sustainability movement in football by transforming its City Football Academy into a leading renewable energy hub. The club plans to install 10,887 solar panels. This is a move poised to significantly offset the facility’s energy use with clean power, also benefiting the Etihad Stadium.
The initiative marks a crucial step towards Manchester City’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon net zero by 2030. Strategically placing solar panels across the academy. Including over 3,000 on the Joie Stadium roof and additional installations on various buildings and walkways. This reflects the club’s innovative approach to combining sports with environmental stewardship.
Awaiting approval from Manchester City Council, the project, led by local renewable energy developer Clearvolt, aims for completion by the end of 2024.
Pete Bradshaw, the Club’s Director of Sustainability, expressed, “Launching into renewable energy significantly propels our commitment to a sustainable future. We’re thrilled about our journey to net zero by 2030.”
The academy, established on revitalized industrial land, already boasts LEED Gold certification for its eco-friendly design. It serves as a testament to Manchester City’s dedication to green practices, including enhancing local biodiversity. This step reinforces the club’s leadership in sustainable sports practices, inviting fans and communities to join in celebrating and contributing to a greener future.
Positive Steps: Sainsbury’s Commits to Operational Reductions
Sainsbury’s is making bold strides towards sustainability, committing to slash its operational emissions by 68% by 2030. This aligns with its vision for net-zero carbon operations by 2035. Their ambition is underpinned by science-based targets, focusing on significant reductions in direct and power-related emissions. Furthermore, it has earned the approval of the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its alignment with a 1.5°C climate pathway.
In pursuit of these goals, Sainsbury’s has launched several energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. Switching to LED lighting across its stores has already reduced lighting energy consumption by 70%. Further, the supermarket is phasing out natural gas and hydrofluorocarbons, opting for electric heating and modern refrigeration systems to lower emissions. These efforts extend to reducing indirect emissions from energy, industry, transport. They are also including the impact of deforestation in their value chain, reflecting a comprehensive approach to sustainability.
Ruth Cranston, Sainsbury’s director of corporate responsibility and sustainability, emphasised the urgency of their mission, stating, “Getting our updated targets validated by the SBTi is an important step forward. The effects of climate change are already very real, making it vital for us to reduce emissions and protect nature.”
As Sainsbury’s continues on its path to net-zero, its actions signal a transformation across the business and supply chains, aiming to empower customers to make environmentally conscious choices.
Positive Steps: The National Grid Unveils Huge Investment in Change
The National Grid’s ambitious £60bn investment plan marks a pivotal step towards a net-zero power grid by 2035. The focus is on clean energy job growth and the expansion of the offshore wind sector. Their investment is poised to introduce an additional 21GW of offshore wind power from Scotland. This is propelling the UK to the forefront of wind energy with a projected capacity of 86GW.
The strategic move not only accelerates the transition to renewable energy but also underscores the UK’s commitment to combating climate change. Additionally, the plan entails the development of new electrical infrastructure to efficiently transport clean energy nationwide.
Fintan Slye, ESO’s executive director, emphasised the importance of swift, coordinated action to build the necessary infrastructure for a decarbonized electricity system. It highlights the role of collaborative efforts across the energy sector and communities. The initiative is expected to generate approximately 20,000 annual jobs, primarily benefiting regions outside London and the Southeast.
It’s a testament to the National Grid’s dedication to not only enhancing the UK’s energy security and sustainability but also to fostering economic growth and job creation across the country.
As the UK strides towards a greener future, the National Grid’s plan serves as a blueprint for clean, secure, and sustainable energy.
Positive Steps: Wrap Up
This week’s edition of Positive Steps has taken us on an inspiring journey. From Manchester City’s pioneering solar panel initiative to Sainsbury’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. Rounding off with the National Grid’s monumental investment plan towards achieving a net-zero power grid. Each story highlights the remarkable strides being made in various sectors to combat climate change and foster a sustainable future.
Through these initiatives, we see a common thread of commitment, innovation, and collaborative effort aimed at creating a greener, cleaner world. We hope these stories not only inform but also inspire our readers, showcasing that positive change is not just a concept, but a reality being crafted across the globe. As we witness these transformative actions, let’s carry forward the spirit of optimism and be motivated to contribute our part to this global movement towards sustainability.
Play It Green: Empowering Your Sustainability Journey
Ready to take your commitment to sustainability to the next level? Play It Green stands as your partner in creating positive environmental change. From educational resources on sustainable practices and signposting to sustainable services to initiatives like tree planting and social giving, Play It Green offers a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
Join us in the journey toward sustainability—embrace eco-conscious practices and be a force for positive change in our world. All whilst staying relevant, meeting legislation and aligning with the values of today’s consumers and employees.
