At the Crows Nest Centre, we’re keen to reduce our impact on the environment, as well as reduce costs so we can invest more in our community services and activities.
Energy is a big cost for a place like the Crows Nest Centre, so our focus has been on making the Centre more energy efficient.
Based on energy audit findings over the past few years we have worked with the Better Business Partnership and North Sydney Council to:
- install 165 solar panels on the roof of the Centre
- upgrade our lights to energy efficient LEDs
- replace our old gas hot water system with a thermal heat pump system
- install window tinting and blinds for more efficient heating and cooling
- replace older computers with newer, more energy efficient models
- upgrade our air conditioning chiller.
We closely monitor energy costs and are always on the lookout for new ideas to reduce our carbon footprint.
As well as our initiatives to reduce energy use, we have reduced water consumption with two 20,000 litre rain tanks installed under the Centre, supplying water for the toilets and gardens.
Record keeping is predominantly electronic. Where printing is required, we use recycled paper.
Other initiatives include paper, bottle and can recycling using Australian made carbon-neutral Ecobins, reusable coffee cups and water bottles.
In 2019 we hosted our first Sustainable Bunting Working Bee. Our clients and volunteers donated unloved doilies, serviettes and placemats, which were transformed into bunting for events at the Centre such as St Patrick’s Day and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.