Council call to shut that door

7.28.12pm GMT Fri 28th Dec 2007

Businesses are being urged by Richmond Council to heed the energy-saving message and shut their doors this winter.

Vast amounts of energy are wasted by shops, restaurants and bars that leave front doors open with the heating on full blast. The Council is also reminding them to switch off lights during closing hours.

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Cabinet Member for Environment on Richmond Council, said: "Leaving doors open in winter and lights switched on throughout the night represents a huge waste of energy that eats into profits and contributes to global warming. Residents are increasingly aware of the need to insulate homes, switch off electrics when not in use and reduce their carbon footprint. But many businesses don't follow this example. We have received numerous complaints about it from local people but the Council has no powers to intervene. Therefore, I would urge businesses to make a New Year resolution to cut their energy consumption in 2008 by taking simple steps like shutting doors and switching lights off. Your customers will thank you for it and it will save money in the process. The Council is currently drawing up a climate change strategy for the borough and will be launching a green business service in 2008 to help firms adopt more sustainable practices."