FuDog, a popular restaurant nestled in the heart of Wanaka, has embarked on an ambitious journey towards environmental sustainability. The establishment made a significant step by taking part in the Climate Action Initiative (CAI), a program delivered by Environmental Accounting Services (EAS) through WAO Aotearoa. CAI helps participants calculate their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while also providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to take action to reduce their emissions.
Like many businesses, the team at FuDog wanted to understand their impact on the environment, specifically their carbon footprint. However, the process seemed daunting; with many minute details that could easily overwhelm a small business. The challenge was to find a way to evaluate and reduce their carbon footprint without getting lost in the complexities.
Harnessing collaborative strength
CAI appealed to FuDog as it brought together various local businesses, providing a platform for collaboration and mutual support. The owners appreciated the fact that they were not tackling this enormous issue alone.
The workshop provided a practical and manageable approach to understanding and reducing a business’s carbon footprint. Rather than diving into the nitty-gritty details, they started with broader categories like travel, delivery, staff commuting, and waste management. This approach made the process less intimidating and more achievable.
From insights to impact
Upon receiving their carbon footprint number, FuDog immediately identified areas for improvement. They decided to introduce a fleet of bikes for staff commuting, reducing their travel carbon footprint and promoting a healthier lifestyle among their employees.
They also decided to audit their waste management; identifying what they sent to the landfill. This step was crucial as waste to landfill was one of their biggest emission sources. By understanding their waste better, they could implement strategies to reduce it, which would also result in cost savings.
The value-driven path to improvement
FuDog’s journey towards environmental sustainability is ongoing. While there is always more that can be done, FuDog is committed to making continuous improvements. They have found that even small steps can significantly impact and that being environmentally responsible does not necessarily mean incurring high costs.
FuDog’s experience with the Climate Action Initiative illustrates the power of collaboration and the importance of taking manageable steps toward sustainability. Their journey serves as inspiration for other small businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute positively to the environment.
Small steps towards big changes
For other businesses considering similar initiatives, FuDog offers this advice: “Start small. Just pick away at little things and try to understand what it is you’re trying to do. Every small step that you take is a positive step. You don’t have to spend lots of money. There are things that you can do that will actually be cost-saving. It’s been a very positive exercise, and it’s important not to beat yourself up about it. If it becomes too overwhelming, you’ll probably raise your hands and say, ‘We can’t do it.’ So just take little steps, baby steps.”
To learn more about the Climate Action Initiative, please visit Climate Action Initiative — Wao and Environmental Accounting Services .