OUR COMMITMENT TO THE PLANET

Reducing Our Environmental Footprint for a Sustainable Future

At St. Francis Credit Union, we are committed to environmental sustainability.

Our efforts are focused on reducing our carbon footprint, promoting energy efficiency, and supporting eco-friendly practices.

We believe that by taking responsible actions today, we can contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.

Environmental Projects and Initiatives

Our environmental projects and initiatives are designed to create a positive impact on the planet. Here are some of our key efforts.

Energy-Efficiency Upgrades

We have developed a roadmap for upgrading the energy-consuming devices at our nine branches around County Clare.

This includes upgrading to modern heating and cooling systems, advanced lighting that requires less electricity, and even the technology that powers our banking.

Our goal is to use as little energy as possible.

Harnessing Solar Power

We are conducting feasibility studies to establish the viability of installing solar panels for generating our own electricity.

By investing in solar energy, we will reduce our reliance and load on the Irish electrical grid – as well as move closer to reducing our business-related carbon emissions.

Carbon Reduction Measures

In addition to reducing our energy requirements and investing in green energy, we are looking at other areas in which we can reduce our carbon footprint.

This will include moving away from oil- or kerosene-fired heating, as well as sourcing energy that is free of fossil fuels.

Minimising Waste

We are continuously reviewing our policies to identify measures that will help us, and our members, reduce waste.

We have already started this journey by introducing paperless banking, and look forward to introducing more innovative practices that will ease the burden on the planet.

Goals and Metrics

We have set ambitious, science-based targets to guide our environmental sustainability efforts. These goals are backed by metrics to track our progress.

Goals:

  • 50% reduction in carbon emissions intensity by 2035.
  • Begin tracking Scope 3 emissions by 2030.
  • Develop a comprehensive waste-reduction plan.

Progress towards these goals:

  • Energy audit conducted to establish baselines.
  • Airtightness audits at the Ennis and Shannon branches.
  • Smart timers for heating systems at all branches.
  • Solar panel installation at the Shannon branch.
  • Developed a roadmap for energy efficiency and carbon reduction measures.

DID YOU KNOW?

Carbon emissions intensity is a globally recognised method of measuring the amount of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) emitted per €1 million of economic activity. It shows how much pollution is generated for each million euros spent or earned, helping to assess the environmental impact of economic activities.