Environmental Policy

1. Introduction

1.1 Formby Pool Trust (FPT) remains committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. This 2024-2025 update to the Environmental Sustainability Policy reflects the latest advancements in energy efficiency, renewable energy installations, and sustainability efforts as outlined in the 2023-2024 Annual Performance Report and Annual Delivery Plan.

2. Policy Objectives

2.1 Achieving carbon neutrality by eliminating or offsetting all carbon emissions by 2030.

2.2 Reducing energy consumption annually and implementing advanced technologies to improve efficiency.

2.3 Expanding renewable energy usage, aiming for 50% of energy needs by 2028.

2.4 Improving water conservation and waste management strategies.

2.5 Engaging staff, members, and the local community in sustainability initiatives and best practices.

2.6 Improve Display Energy Certificate rating to an A (0-25) by 2027/28.

3. 2023/24 Energy Consumption Overview

3.1 FPT has reduced annual electricity consumption to an all-time low of 251,984kWh, a 2% reduction from the previous year. Compared to 2008/09 electricity consumption has reduced by 61%, achieved through the installation of LED lighting, daylight harvesting systems, solar PV, and BMS efficiencies. Currently, 24% of the electricity consumed at Formby Pool comes from onsite renewable sources.

3.2 In 2023/24, annual gas usage decreased by 14.7% compared to 2022-2023. Furthermore, gas consumption has been reduced by 37% since 2015/16, attributed to investments in solar thermal systems, pool covers, and upgraded heating systems facilitating superior efficiency.

3.3 Currently the Trust has a DEC rating of B33, representing a substantial decrease from the C67 awarded in 2016. Furthermore, since 2009 the Trust have reduced annual C02 emissions by approximately 300 tonnes (50%).

4. 2024-2025 Energy Consumption Targets

4.1 The Trust have set annual consumption targets of 239,000kWh for electricity and 641,000kwh for gas, representing a 5% and 2.5% reduction respectively.

5. Key Initiatives and Projects (2024-2025)

5.1 Total PV capacity is set to increase by 149 panels to 459 in total, generating a combined total of approximately 75,000kWh per year. The third phase of Solar PV installation, funded via the Swimming Pool Support Fund, is set for completion in April 2024 and is projected to produce and additional 46,342kWh annually. This expansion will reduce grid electricity reliance by a further 11% and offset 11.5 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.

5.2 The Trust continues its commitment to reducing gas consumption with the planned installation of ASHPs to replace existing gas boilers. Investment will facilitate a 91% annual reduction in gas consumption, offsetting 736,000kWh of gas with 69,000 kWh of electricity, subsequently achieving an annual net reduction of C02 emissions by 135 tonnes. Planning approval has been obtained and the procurement process is underway.

5.3 Following installation of additional Solar PV the Trust intend to procure its first battery storage in Q4, enabling the capture of surplus generation, further reducing grid reliance.

6. Waste Management and Recycling

6.1 The Trust is committed to increasing its onsite recycling efforts, ensuring all departments participate in waste reduction. In addition, educational initiatives will be rolled out for both employees and customers to improve awareness about recycling best practices.

6.2 FPT will explore new ways to reduce waste, including eliminating single-use plastics from its operations and promoting the use of sustainable materials across its supply chain.

7. Water Conservation

7.1 FPT will continue exploring the feasibility of water recovery and rainwater harvesting systems to reduce water consumption in non-drinking water applications. The Trust is committed to improving water efficiency throughout the facility.

8. Green Transportation

8.1 A new cycle shelter modification project, set for completion in October 2024 aims to encourage staff and visitors to use bicycles, providing a secure facility with remote access for up to 20 bicycles. This initiative supports FPT’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint by encouraging staff and members to choose a sustainable transportation option.

8.2 In 2023, the trust acquired an electric maintenance van, used primarily by the maintenance team. In addition, the vehicle is used by management when attending off site meetings, seminars, conferences, training etc. The vehicle is largely charged by excess solar generation using a smart control system.

9. Staff and Community Engagement/Education

9.1 To ensure the success of FPT’s environmental policy, the Trust will expand its efforts to engage staff, members, and the local community in sustainability initiatives by;

9.2 Providing ongoing training for employees on sustainability best practices and energy efficiency. Annual sessions will be held to keep staff informed on the latest initiatives and how they can contribute to meeting the Trust’s environmental goals

9.3 Engaging the local community through educational campaigns and workshops that raise awareness about environmental sustainability and how individuals can contribute to reducing their carbon footprint.

9.4 Informing and encouraging facility users to adopt sustainable practices, such as recycling and energy-saving behaviours during their visits to FPT facilities.

10. Monitoring and Reporting

10.1 Smart metering for electricity and gas has long been in place providing real-time data on energy usage, enabling better management and optimisation of consumption. Data will be reviewed daily by the Trusts energy campion and the maintenance team. Consumption data is shared monthly to the management team and forms part of the operations report presented to the Trust board on a bi-monthly basis.

10.2 An energy display will be present in the foyer area, displaying live consumption data to employees, members and visitors along with the Trusts environmental sustainability policy

10.3 This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure FPT’s environmental goals remain aligned with its strategic objectives. The Trust will continue to publicly report its progress, ensuring transparency and accountability in meeting its sustainability targets