Updated on 21 August 2009
Green Embassy saves one third of energy consumptionSimple but practical measures have helped the Embassy achieve some of its goals of by saving electricity, some water and become almost self–sufficient with bio-fertilizers for the garden soil.
The compost-making routine works very well and we have managed to get good quality soil for our flowerbeds which can be seen in the thriving of plants.
The replacement of old machines and equipment – like air-conditioners and fridges - for more energy-efficient ones; the change of routines for turning off equipment and lights, using low-energy bulbs etc. have lowered the energy consumption at our premises by around 30% compared to that of June 2008.
The recycling mechanism of the salty water in our swimming-pool, using less chemicals is well functioned, thus improving the working environment for maintenance and reducing maintenance costs.
From now until the end of 2009, the Embassy will intensify its efforts by offering training to its drivers to drive as energy-efficiently as possible, coordinate transport, go through the fleet of cars and use better and more eco-friendly detergents in the office. We also aim at trying to calculate the savings in amount of carbon saved through the measures.
The Embassy strongly believes that it can make a difference by starting to set a good example of being Green at the individual level and small-scale. The Embassy is determined to inspire others and join hands with others to make the Earth a better place to live on for the younger generations.Updated on 4 June 2009The Embassy of Sweden strives to become a “Green Embassy”
The Government of Sweden has a long tradition of working with environmental protection with the aim to act as a positive force and model for sustainable development, and secure that Sweden continues to be a leading country within this field. The Government has previously, as one measure, introduced green procurement as a norm for its procurement. During 2009, and onwards, the Swedish Government has introduced “Green Goals” to be achieved within its operation and enterprises.
In order to fulfil this goal the Embassy of Sweden in Hanoi has introduced a programme in 2009 to become a “Green Embassy”. Previously, heating hot water for the compound by solar heaters has been introduced. This entails that a plan for lessening the Global footprint of the Embassy is developed; that achievable goals are developed within a certain timeframe, results reported at regular intervals, and that the plan will be updated continuously.
The Embassy of Sweden has now introduced composting of household waste within its compound in Hanoi where the soil produced will enrich and beautify the garden. Given the good climate for composting in Hanoi, the Embassy aims at having soil ready for use within 12 weeks. This initiative will lower the waste produced by the Embassy compound with approximately one half, and significantly reduce the smell pollution from its waste.
Among the issues the Embassy has to strive for is lower emissions from its vehicles.
The Embassy also aims at reducing the use of water and electricity by more stringent instructions; by the consistent use of low-energy bulbs, turning off stand-by screens, printers, copying machines, lights when not in the room, etc. Paper, lead batteries, glass, plastic, etc. are collected for recycling.
The water at the pool within the Embassy compound has been changed from chlorine to salt water with the aim of lessening the environmental burden from chemicals and cut costs.
All staff have been sensitised and trained in order to be able to carry out some of the measures introduced at the Embassy in their private homes.