Axion turns green to embrace environmental certification

Manchester-based Axion Consulting has achieved ISO14001:2004 certification an internationally-accepted standard for an effective Environmental Management System (EMS).

New standard operating systems implemented at Axion’s Bramhall-based premises include IT equipment-recycling procedures, passive infrared sensors (PIRs) that automatically control lighting, radiator thermostatic controls and timers to turn off printers outside working hours.

The company says its staff have also embraced a ‘green journey’, with many employees favouring public transport or sheer legwork over car use to embrace the ‘spirit’ of the certification, designed to address the delicate balance between business operations and reducing environmental impact.

“We think we have higher than average use of train travel per employee than most companies; it shows we are ‘really doing it’ and not simply getting a certificate to prove our environmental credentials,” commented Axion Director, Keith Freegard, who travels around 20,000 miles each year by train, including from his London home to Axion’s Manchester sites.

Axion calculates his train journeys, based on one person travelling on a busy train, save 90 percent of carbon emissions compared to going by car. Over the course of a year, train travel generates 720 kg CO2   versus 7,170 kg CO2 for an average car.

Axion Consulting Consultant, Hannah Burke, who spearheaded the year-long process and rides her bike to work every day, commented: “Sustainable travel options are an on-going focus for us.”

Burke added: “Due to the nature of our work, we already had a strong environmental policy in place, fully supported by our management team and staff.  ISO 14001:2004 certification is official recognition of our environmental credentials and publicly demonstrates our commitment to continual environmental improvement.”