With shorter, colder days, energy use naturally increases at home and in the workplace. This year, we’re encouraging everyone to take part in our Seasonal Switch-Off by taking small actions that collectively make a big difference. Simple steps like turning off lights, unplugging devices, and turning radiators down or off can stop energy being wasted, reducing our carbon footprint and saving money.

As we work towards our goal of achieving Net Zero by 2035, it’s essential that everyone plays their part. By participating in the Seasonal Switch-Off and taking simple actions such as unplugging devices and turning down radiators, instead of opening windows, for example, we can save energy and costs as well as reduce emissions and University costs.

Before the winter break

As we prepare to leave for the winter break, let’s all do our part to save energy and reduce waste. Appliances left on standby, radiators heating unused spaces, and lights illuminating empty rooms all contribute to higher costs, energy and emissions.

Did you know leaving a single radiator on over the two-week winter break could waste approximately 80 kWh of energy, equating to 14.72 kg of CO₂ emissions? That’s the equivalent to driving 45 miles and the same amount of CO ₂ one tree absorbs over eight months. When multiplied by the number of radiators we have across campus, it shows how one simple action can contribute to significant savings in resources and finances.

Before leaving the office for the winter break, please take a moment to follow this checklist:

• Turn radiators down: ensure radiators are turned down to the lowest setting by turning the valve clockwise
• Switch off lights and lamps: turn off all lights in offices and communal areas when they are not in use
• Unplug electrical appliances: devices left on standby still consume energy. IT Services advise leaving PCs on for software updates but docking stations, speakers and monitors can be turned off at the wall
• Empty and unplug office fridges: clear out any perishables and switch off fridges to avoid unnecessary energy use over the break.

Green Impact

Earn points for your team sharing these tips on how to reduce energy and fulfil the General 005 task of the Green Impact Toolkit!

If you have any more cost-saving tips, send them to savings@sussex.ac.uk.