Energy and our carbon footprint

Property-based energy consumption

We have targeted to reduce our property-based energy consumption in 2011/12 by 10%. To achieve this, we run a number of initiatives including use of energy-saving building technologies, energy-efficient materials, fixtures and fittings for all our refurbishments and new buildings.

Each year we run a number of internal energy reduction and recycling campaigns such as 'Switch Off' and 'Know your Bin' to keep our staff focused on our environmental targets.

Waste segregation and reduction is an ongoing part of our environment programme. We run quarterly waste audits to track progress and monitor efficiency.

Paper reduction and recycling

We recycle 100% of our confidential paper waste and have switched to recycled paper for all general stationery. Initiatives aimed at reducing our paper consumption include intelligent printing systems and analysis and monitoring of usage. We continue to encourage our customers to switch to paperless banking and use our online services and e-statements.

Reducing travel

We have taken steps to cut business travel wherever possible. One way we achieve this is by holding more meetings by telephone and video conferencing. We now have these facilities in many of our business centres in Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Kilkenny.