Advice and funding to improve efficiency

You may not be aware, but SME businesses that fall within the Leeds City Region can potentially access free advice and funding to reduce their energy, water and waste costs.

The programme is called the Resource Efficiency Fund and is being delivered by the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership. Green Gain has been selected as a key partner in the delivery of the technical audits provided through the programme.

The Resource Efficiency Fund provides financial support and advice for SMEs looking to become more resource efficient in the way they do business.

It offers free resource efficiency assessments of your business, with advice and guidance on ways to save money and waste, and 50% grant funding of up to £10,000 available to help. You will be eligibile for support if your business is an SME that falls within the Leeds City Region highlighted in the map below:

To be eligible for support, your SME business must be:

• Based in the Leeds City Region excluding Barnsley, i.e. a trading address in the Leeds City Region
• In an eligible sector - this generally excludes primary agriculture, banking and financial services, and (for grants in particular) those trading directly with consumers- e.g. retail and hospitality
• Able to provide evidence of your previous energy and resource consumption, for example your previous utility bills
• Not being part of a larger group of companies that takes it over the SME threshold

For more information visit the LEP website.
To register your interest and find out more about the Resource Efficiency Fund, call 0114 348 1818 or email: businessgrowth@the-lep.com to speak to a business advisor. Please mention that Green Gain put you in touch!

Green Gain secures supply partnership deal for bin-fill monitoring system Sensoneo

Green Gain recently established a partnership with a Slovakian technology and software developer, Brain:IT to act as the UK supplier for their new 'Sensoneo' system.

Sensoneo is an intelligent, user-friendly technology delivering real-time monitoring of the fill-level of waste containers. The high precision sensors use ultra-sound technology, measuring the level of the waste in regular intervals, and using multiple angles to capture undistorted fill status.

The sensors send the data through to a secure web-based cloud platform using a GSM network. The Platform can be viewed and managed by both the waste producer and the waste contractor using our dedicated Apps.

Data is presented in real-time for bin volumes. Efficient route plans can be easily developed to ensure only full bins are being collected. The system can be leased or purchased delivering a 15-30% saving on operational waste collection costs through improved route efficiencies.

The key market sectors that Green Gain will target with this technology are:

• Local authorities

• Waste management companies

• Large businesses with multiple sites

• Universities

• Large healthcare organisations with multiple and/or sprawling sites

Sensoneo, whilst only in its first 18 months of commercial production, surpasses its competitors in several areas, including: measurement precision, error elimination, useful life, ability to implement the solution in all types of waste collection containers, sensor weight and size (there is no smaller sensor on the market capable of providing the same functionality), intelligent attachment and simple installation, and the lowest cost of operation (achieved through data transfer sharing between multiple sensors capable of communicating together). In addition, the applications can be “tailor-made” for clients. The data platform can be integrated with a client’s existing information systems. We also offer connectivity through LoRaWAN networks which is higher speed, less costly, and extends battery life.

If you are interested in more information about the system or would like to trial the Sensoneo system, then please get in touch via: info@greengain.co.uk

This August, take advantage of Green Gain's ‘resource efficiency support’ package to move forward your environmental objectives and deliver savings.  Green Gain offers technical expertise and the flexibility to adapt our support to your bespoke business needs. You will receive support from our highly experienced team who can assist accross a range of technical disciplines.

Flexible bespoke support;  Highly experienced team; Multi-disciplinary skill-sets; Typical payback is 3 months Access low-carbon technologies; Meet CSR objectives.

Areas of expertise •    Baseline environmental impact measurement; •    Benchmarking and target setting; •    Environmental Strategy Development; •    Implementation of efficiency measures across energy, waste, and water; •    Renewable energy feasibility studies; •    Introduction to process efficient technologies; •    Staff training and awareness raising; •    Procurement of waste management contracts; •    Mapping of environmental impacts across national sites; •    Green product and packaging design; •    Carbon foot-printing; •    Establishing circular economy business models.

Here is what our customers say “As energy, waste and commodity prices continue to rise, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important issue. The work we are doing with Green Gain to address these issues is not only gaining us recognition with our customers; it is helping to secure our long-term future”.  Keith Foreman, Managing Director, Freshpak Chilled Foods “Our requirement was quickly understood and an excellent piece of work ensued. It was refreshing working with a team of people who clearly have a strong grasp on what they deliver.” Jane Fowler, Marketing Director, Crompton Controls "Green Gain provided Plastic Trading with support to develop a new recycling process for the plastic materials we handle. They ensured that we have robust market information to feed into our business plan and helped us to understand the impact we're having on carbon reduction. We were impressed with the quality of their work." Jane Abson, Managing Director, Plastics Trading Ltd

Our typical day rate is £500/day, so with the August discount you could receive support for £350/day (excluding VAT). Please contact Green Gain today to organise a summer support package that meets your needs.

Green Gain takes centre stage at EcoFair 2016

On the 15th June, the Green Gain Directors Steven Ogden and Ashley Robb presented at EcoFair, the largest B2B environmental event in the north of England.

In its seventh year, EcoFair brings together business and technical environmental expetise in areas such as energy, carbon reduction, regulation, the built environment and the circular economy.

Green Gain presented two case studies of resource efficient business models that we have recently helped to take forward.

The first case study considered Fresh-pak Chilled Foods, the UK’s largest manufacturer of deli-fillings. Green Gain has been supporting them to review their operations in order to improve their overall operational efficiency. Adopting Green Gain's Accelerator programme has helped the business to review and rethink how they deliver their day-to-day business has helped Fresh-Pak uncover six figure savings and win an Asda sustainability award.

The second case study reviewed the work Green Gain delivered to help support the growth and commercialisation of Restructa in Scotland who have developed a high-value product from a low-value material. Restructa produce a decorative aggregate from the panel glass from Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) television screens. The product has great ‘sustainability’ credentials, and is extremely versatile being used for a number of landscaping applications. Our presentation will took the audience through the journey of progressing the product from conception to commercialisation.

Full copies of the presentations can be obtained by contacting: info@greengain.co.uk, along with details of how we can support your business to do the same.

Get your first 4 waste and recycling collections FREE of charge

First 4 Waste Collections FREE, if you sign up before the 30th June 2016 Our partners at Forge Recycling are offering a unique opportunity for you to benefit from having your Waste, Dry Mixed Recyclables, Food Waste or Glass Bottles collected FREE OF CHARGE. This special offer applies to Yorkshire-based companies within their service area that commit to a 12 month contract.    Forge Recycling offer a high-quality service at a low-cost price: Yorkshire company with a local customer service office Operate 24 / 7 Collect: General waste, Dry Mixed Recyclables, Food waste and Glass They are not a broker - they operate their own fleet of vehicles No hidden charges

Introducing Market Gain

Green Gain has developed a new service called MarketGain^TM aimed specifically at environmental technology businesses. MarketGain^TM is a low cost, high-value way of generating meaningful leads for your low-carbon products and services. It reaches a market of over 20,000 companies across the UK through targeted digital media campaigns. Our prices range from £150 to £195 per month (ex. VAT).

MarketGain^TM is the only online lead generation service dedicated to low-carbon products. Our contacts are in senior decision-making roles: Business Directors, Managing Directors and Financial Directors and these are updated on a monthly basis. 

A selection of the product categories we can generate leads for are summarised below - although this list is by no means exclusive.  We only promote a single product/service under each low-carbon product category to avoid any duplication or competing interest.

Contact us today to secure your product category listing and generate sales leads with high conversion potential.

Introducing Tender Gain

Tender Gain Cost saving, professional means of procuring sustainable waste management services and green energy

Green Gain has recently helped to develop a comprehensive procurement process for a new waste management contract for KFC UK Ltd. As a result of our support, they are now in the process of appointing a contractor that will provide them with a zero waste to landfill, high-recycling solution; helping make the transition from ‘wastes management’ to ‘resources management’. The work has really helped re-define their waste strategy and will make a big impact on their Corporate and Social Responsibility.

Introducing 'MarketGain'

Green Gain has developed a new service called MarketGain^TM aimed specifically at environmental technology businesses. MarketGain^TM is a low cost, high-value way of generating meaningful leads for your low-carbon products and services. It reaches a market of over 20,000 companies across the UK through targeted digital media campaigns. Our prices range from £150 to £195 per month (ex. VAT).

MarketGain^TM is the only online lead generation service dedicated to low-carbon products. Our contacts are in senior decision-making roles: Business Directors, Managing Directors and Financial Directors and these are updated on a monthly basis. 

A selection of the product categories we can generate leads for are summarised below - although this list is by no means exclusive.  We only promote a single product/service under each low-carbon product category to avoid any duplication or competing interest.

Contact us today to secure your product category listing and generate sales leads with high conversion potential.

FREE Solar PV for commercial and industrial customers until 31st March 2016

Green Gain is working in partnership with Hub Energy to promote the free installation of Solar PV panels at commercial and industrial properties across the Yorkshire region.


Key benefits:

• 20% saving on consumed electricity

• No capital expenditure or maintenance costs

• Bespoke and site-specific design, supply and installation by Yorkshire’s award winning Solar PV installer

• Quality installation by a MCS registered company

• Reduce your carbon foot print at no cost

• Benefit from cheaper electricity costs for the next 20 Years

• Be a Yorkshire-based commercial or industrial business

• Minimum of 80 square metres of available roof space

• Be the building owner or have the landlord's permission

Key requirements:

• Be a Yorkshire-based commercial or industrial business
• Minimum of 80 square metres of available roof space
• Be the building owner or have the landlord's permission

So if you are interested in exploring this offer further, don't wait for the sun to shine, get in touch now for a no-obligation feasability study at: info@greengain.co.uk. 

Green Gain has helped UK’s leading manufacturer of high quality deli-fillings, Fresh-pak Chilled Foods, to secure a top Asda sustainability award

Fresh-pak scooped the prestigious award for ‘Internal Engagement’ at the recent Asda Sustain and Save Exchange Summit in Leeds. This award recognises and rewards suppliers who take pride in their environment and who engage employees on sustainability initiatives. As overall winner, amidst tough competition from industry heavyweights, Fresh-pak was presented with its award by Chris Brown, Sustainable Business Director at Asda.

Throughout 2015, Fresh-pak has been supported by Green Gain to undertake a full baseline audit of energy, waste and water, and to work with the site team to help develop and implement an environmental strategy to address these impacts. This has enabled Fresh-pak to reduce its costs, improve its efficiencies, comply with the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), and make its primary operations more sustainable. This support has now helped Fresh-pak to gain recognition from one of its key customers.

“We are absolutely delighted to win this award. I know that the Fresh-pak team care passionately about the environment and it’s fantastic to see such enthusiasm and drive rewarded with this customer recognition and prestigious award”, said Keith Foreman, Managing Director, Freshpak.

“As energy, waste and commodity prices continue to rise, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important issue. The work we are doing with Green Gain to address these issues is not only gaining us recognition with our customer; it is helping to secure our long-term future”.

10 top tips for a sustainable Christmas

1. Artificial trees

If you have one already, use it for as many years as possible to make the most of it. If you don’t have one, try Freecycle, Ebay or Gumtree for a pre-loved one.

2. Eco-friendly real trees

To make sure your tree is UK grown, buy from a retailer registered with the British Christmas Tree Growers Association. If you want a tree that is certified organic, check to see that it has been approved by the Soil Association.

3. Grow your own

Buying a potted tree with roots allows you to grow it outside and use it again next year, reducing its environmental impact and costing you less. But be warned - they require some looking after and you'll need a big pot. 

4. Recycling cut trees

Don’t let your tree be part of the 90% that end up in landfill. Many local councils now compost them so find your local Christmas tree recycling point.

5. Tree rental

Christmas tree rental, what a brilliant idea.

Forever Green Christmas Trees deliver around South Essex but are prepared to do deliveries further afield if you call them up (07854 437 224).

The Little Tree Company previously operated across the UK and is now offering a local service in the South Yorkshire area.

Lovely Branches serves Greater London.

Save a tree, send an e-card


Let your imagination run wild. Homemade craft items or food can be a refreshing and creative alternative to high-street or online purchases. Giving your promise to do something nice will probably be seen as special too.

6. Homemade gifts

You can make use of what you already have, with these beautiful origami Christmas models or make your own candles in bespoke containers, like old tea-cups. Websites such as Prima have oodles of Christmas craft ideas, or see some of our favourite craft and gift ideas on Pinterest.

7. Food gifts

Sweets, biscuits and preserves can all make fabulous Christmas presents, especially with some creative packaging. To make the most of your pantry and garden, Alys Fowler’s book Abundance is a wonderful resource. In it you can find recipes for things like jams and pickles, which you can make months before Christmas.

The BBC Goodfood website and Delicious Magazine are both packed with sweet and savoury recipes for gifts. If you're baking with the kids, why not try traditional favourites such as gingerbread men? They're great fun to decorate.

8. Free gifts

Why spend if you don’t have to? Free Christmas Gift Cheques are a lovely way of making your time the thing that counts.

9. Friends of the Earth shop

The Friends of the Earth shop has a fabulous eco-friendly range of cards, calendars and gifts. So you can do all your festive shopping and support Friends of the Earth at the same time. They’ve also got gift vouchers, so you can let your friends or family choose their own present. A turkey on the table doesn’t have to be a seasonal inevitability. 

10. Vegetarian recipes

Why not cut the meat this Christmas, or cook vegetarian for Boxing Day and over the rest of the festive break? According to the Soil Association "food is the single most important, everyday way for people to reduce their own environmental impact".

This doesn’t have to mean endless cheese salads, cheese omelettes and cheese sandwiches. Try the Vegetarian Society or Jamie Oliver for hundreds of fantastic recipes.

Merry Christmas!

Install Solar PV before the December cuts with Yorkshire’s award-winning renewables specialist! Green Gain, in partnership with Hub Energy, is helping businesses make the most of solar PV opportunities before the Government reduce the current FIT payments.    The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) is proposing to cut the feed-in tariff rates for solar PV installations by as much as 87% from the 1st January 2016. Ministers are aiming to reduce the feed-in tariff for smaller scale solar installations from 12.47p per kilowatt hour to 1.63p with large standalone units eligible for subsidies of 1.03p per kWh, compared with 4.28p today. So if you are interested in ‘making hay while the sun shines’ then get in touch with Green Gain at info@greengain.co.uk.

Tender Gain

Tender Gain Cost saving, professional means of procuring sustainable waste management services and green energy

Green Gain has recently helped procure a new waste management contract for KFC UK Ltd. As a result of our support, they are now in the process of appointing a contractor that will provide them with a zero waste to landfill, high-recycling solution; helping make the transition from ‘wastes management’ to ‘resources management’. The work has really helped re-define their waste strategy and will make a big impact on their Corporate and Social Responsibility.

Raising standards, reducing costs

The UK’s leading manufacturer of high quality deli-fillings for retail and industrial suppliers, Fresh-Pak, starts to benefit from the Green Gain Accelerator.

Having undertaken a full baseline audit of energy, waste and water earlier this year, Green Gain has now developed an environmental strategy that will help the company to reduce costs, improve profit margins and make its primary operations more sustainable.

Following a desk top review, a number of on-site audits and staff-engagement workshops, a series of key recommendations are now being implemented by Green Gain. These will collectively deliver anticipated savings over £300,000 and the diversion of 650 tonnes of waste from landfill in to recycling. All actions will achieve payback in less than 2 years. Activities include:

·       

           -  Implementing a new segregation system for key waste streams and the delivery of an     awareness raising programme;

·         - Sourcing cheaper end markets for egg-shell waste and food waste;

·         - An assessment of power quality and actions to improve this;

·         - An assessment of steam boiler load profile and review of the control strategy; and

·        -  Investment in a flexible pigging system for pipe cleaning of the mayonnaise mixer.

See how we can help reduce your costs and raise your standards by contacting us at info@greengain.co.uk.

Significantly reduce your energy bill at no cost. But hurry as the offer ends on the 15th March 2015 on a first come, first served basis GreenGain is working in partnership with social enterprise iPower (a UK developer of low carbon projects) to promote the take up of the FREE BlueGEN micro-CHP (Combined Heat and Power) units. BlueGEN is the only Fuel Cell Micro CHP product in the UK to receive MCS accreditation and thus, eligible for Feed In Tariff. BlueGen is the world’s most efficient small-scale product to convert natural gas into power and heat. Key features: The BlueGEN model is a free model based on recovery of value through the 10 year FITs guarantee – in this case, iPower pays for (and owns) the fuel cells and the FITs go back to the funder. BlueGen ownership can pass to customer after ten years. The user pays for service (approx £520 per annum (yr 1) rising with RPI over 10 years) and for the gas supply (commercial/domestic grid connection required). The savings are made because of the efficiency of the fuel cell in generating electricity and heat from the gas – this typically translates to a 20-45% saving on total energy import displaced by the BlueGEN (i.e. combination of heat as well as power). Benefits and Costs: Onsite supply of electricity: 13000+ kWh/year Onsite supply of heat: 6000+ kWh/year CO2 reduction: 3.6+ tonnes /year Costs: cost of gas supply to BlueGen unit and cost of service contract. Eligibility Requirements: Gas supply to building and space for BlueGen with standard installation Electrical load of 20,000+ kWh per year and the ability to use all power generated by the BlueGen unit. No export meter. Ability to utilize approx. 200L hot water/day Minimum 10 year interest in the property Acceptable credit risk assessment.

So if you are interested in hearing more about the FREE BlueGEN then please contact Ashley Robb at: ashley@greengain.co.uk

Green Gain can provide free resource efficiency support to Yorkshire-based SMEs operating in the built environment, advanced manufacturing and environmental technology sectors.*  

An ERDF framework funds our expertise so that we can help you to take new initiatives forward to reduce both energy consumption and waste where you may lack the time, skills or resources in-house.

Our support is designed to be hassle free. We will handle all the paperwork and there is no match funding requirement.

The support is therefore 100% risk free and can be tailored exactly to your needs. As way of example this support may help you to:

• Improve your energy efficiency;
• Minimise your waste generation;
• Get better value from your waste contractors;
• Find higher value end-markets for your waste materials;
• Communicate on environmental issues within your business;
• Increase profitability.

The funded support places are limited, so contact us now to secure your free support!

You can reach me on Steven@greengain.co.uk or 07519 428475.

This is what a recent client said about our support on resource efficiency and waste reduction:

“We really couldn't have done it without you so thank you for your expertise and time – it really is appreciated.”

Abi Lawrence, Front of House Operations Manager, Chapter Arts Centre.

*This offer unfortunately excludes the South Yorkshire sub-region