How a Garment Wholesaler Leveraged Scotland’s Zero Waste Program

August 29, 2024
3 mins
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Location:

Scotland

Investor:

Scottish Government

Investment:

Energy and Carbon Reduction within operations.

Investment Size:

Interest free loan of 13,500 Pounds.

Impact:

Save 1,900 on energy bills, reducing GHG emissions by an estimated 9.5 tons.

Established in 1982, Bar One Clothing initially began as a garment wholesaler specializing in both wholesale transactions and diverse services like screen printing, embroidery, transfers, and garment finishing.

Today, the company boasts an impressive clientele, including renowned names such as Sony, Disney, and the BBC, and holds a distinct commitment to sustainability.

While already meeting client demands by introducing a range of organic and Fairtrade items, Bar One sought to further enhance its environmental impact by addressing the energy efficiency of its 45-year-old facilities in Scotland. This comprehensive space includes a reception and production area, offices, and a warehouse.

As a Scottish enterprise falling within the EU's SME classification, Bar One proactively engaged with the Scottish Government, expressing interest in the Zero Waste Scotland program. This initiative not only offers cashback grants of up to £20,000 but also provides loans of up to £100,000 to support SMEs in implementing energy and carbon reduction solutions.

Collaborating with program advisors, Bar One identified numerous opportunities to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions within its operations. These initiatives ranged from the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting and a low-voltage distribution board to the implementation of occupancy sensors for lighting control and the introduction of rubber strip curtains for more efficient space sealing, thereby eliminating the necessity for electric heaters.

By successfully securing an interest-free SME loan through the Zero Waste Scotland program, Bar One is now poised to implement these eco-friendly recommendations. The collective measures, with an estimated implementation cost of £13,500, are anticipated to yield annual energy bill savings of £1,900 while concurrently reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 9.5 tons.

This case study was taken from Business Energy Scotland. Read more on their website.

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