Local DOC office leads the way in sustainability
Date: 03 October 2008
The Department of Conservation (DOC) in Warkworth has been recognised for its efforts in finding ways to work more sustainably.
Biodiversity Manager, Rory Renwick, was the North Island winner in DOC's inaugural Caught Being Sustainable Awards, recognised for his efforts in installing solar power on Tiritiri Matangi, Motuora and Little Barrier Island (Hauturu).
"Both islands are permanently staffed and have bunkhouses, so it is essential to have power. Previously we used diesel generators which were very expensive to run, and of course burned a lot of fossil fuels. Generators are also very noisy - the last thing you want to hear when visiting a wildlife sanctuary is the sound of a diesel motor," he said.
The solar power has made a significant difference. On Hauturu alone, the use of solar panels has reduced the amount of carbon dioxide produced by 17447 kilograms in a year. And it makes economic sense too; savings have come from the reduced need for staff input, a drop in maintenance costs and of course a much lower diesel bill. On Motuora Island, the solar pump paid for itself within twelve months and saved more than 2000 litres of fuel a year.
"It definitely makes financial sense, as well as these initiatives costing less, we spend a lot less time dealing with maintenance problems allowing the conservation dollar to stretch further," said Mr Renwick.
The project has also included the installation of energy efficient fridges and freezers, solar hot water heaters, energy efficient light bulbs and low flow showerheads. Plans are also underway to install a compacter to reduce the amount of rubbish that needs to be transported from the islands.
"Sustainability ensures that we preserve for future generations the environmental standards and values we hold so dearly today," said Mr Renwick.
DOC is one of the six government departments required to be carbon neutral by 2012. Key areas of action across the country are to reduce emissions from diesel and petrol vehicles, cut down on air travel, and reduce electricity and diesel use.