Times Media supports 49M campaign

Ierfaan Livingstone, TMG's facilities manager, says a number of initiatives have been implemented to reduce energy consumption in the business.

TMG's energy saving activities include replacing all 50W down-lighters with LEDs, switching off office lights after hours, running the central air-conditioning system at half speed from 8pm to 7am daily, and turning off escalators overnight between 6pm and 6am on weekdays. The escalators do not run over weekends. Geyser thermostats have also been adjusted to supply lukewarm water only.

"We ensure all new stand-alone air conditioning units are eco-friendly and fitted with inverters to reduce power usage. We have two power correction systems in the building to further reduce energy usage during peak and off-peak periods. Furthermore, we have partnered with Energy Management SA Utility, who is busy with an audit of our building so we can retrofit the existing electrical system with low wattage bulbs, and LED fittings to qualify for an Eskom rebate," says Livingstone.

Staff is educated

49M partners are encouraged to pass on the message about energy savings to key stakeholders including employees and suppliers. "Staff members are made aware of the initiatives that are being implemented. They are also educated through regular meetings as to how these efficiencies should be carried through to their homes, and how to spread the word with friends and family," Livingstone concludes.

Pieter Pretorius, senior manager of Strategic Marketing at Eskom commended TMG for the practical steps the company has taken to improve energy efficiency. "We as 49M are pleased that TMG joins a growing number of companies embracing an energy efficient culture. Energy efficiency offers a cost effective mechanism to achieve a sustainable energy future," says Pretorius.