Driving like a pro

• 55 000 drivers trained in safe and economical driving
• Average fuel cost savings of 5 to 10 % after course 

Prodrive Learning is a Dutch SME offering mainly online training for companies to promote safe and fuel-efficient driving practices. The e-learning approach is based on measuring, training and motivating staff. 

Generating and supplying compressed air is a very energy-intensive activity. Improving the energy efficiency of compressed-air equipment by implementing concrete measures can save more than 30 % of the total energy used.

The efficiency of such compressed air systems can be improved through simple changes, e. g. by adjusting the system pressure according to the actual demand as well as the required quality. Carbon Trust recommends the following efficiency measures:

Accelerating gently, avoiding high speeds, anticipating traffic... these are all energy efficient or ecodriving measures which can reduce fuel consumption and costs while decreasing carbon dioxide and air pollution. For example, fuel consumption and costs can both be reduced by 10 to 15 %, with an equivalent decrease in CO2 emissions.

Cutting waste in a systematic way will help SMEs to reduce cost and save material. A special waste-prevention plan will be very helpful in introducing such a systematic approach. It helps to understand where resources are used, where waste is generated, and to find and prioritise waste-reducing and resource-saving opportunities.

Tackling mounting energy and waste bills as business grows

• Experts helped SME address energy and waste issues as business grew
• 54 tonnes of waste and 174 tonnes of CO2 equivalent avoided annually
• Led to yearly savings of € 51 000 

Malcolm Allan Ltd is a family business, established in 1954, producing a range of cooked and chilled meats from its premises in Tamfourhill, Falkirk. With an annual turnover of € 12.5 million (£ 11) and 100 employees, the company has experienced recent year-on-year growth of 25 %.

Industrial symbiosis is an association between two or more industrial facilities or companies in which the waste or by-products of one become the raw materials for another. This is usually done for both commercial and environmental reasons. It involves a collective approach to competitive advantage through the physical exchange of material by-products. Typical examples of materials sold on to other businesses are shredded tyres, plastic pellets and waste steams from a factory.