10 December 2015

RTÉ presenter and broadcaster, Miriam O’Callaghan has lent her support to the launch of Green 50, a pivotal charity initiative aimed at raising vital funds for those in need through improved business efficiency and Corporate Social Responsibility.

 

RTÉ itself is one of the first businesses to sign up to the Green 50 programme which encourages companies to donate to a charity of their choice by pledging to adopt more green practices in the workplace.

 

The not-for-profit initiative is funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is aimed at helping businesses to save money and the environment, while redirecting a percentage (hopefully 50%) of its savings achieved over a period of time to those in need. Businesses that sign up to Green 50 will be supported by expert consultants from Green Business who will provide advice on waste management and energy inefficiencies and practices that can be implemented to cut costs and unnecessary wastage.

 

James Hogan, Green 50 programme manager said he hopes that businesses and employees will get on board the green revolution: “In today’s world businesses need to embrace sustainability or go out of business. A sustainable business must remain profitable while at the same time conserve the planet’s resources and remain loyal to its customers, workers and community. Green 50 is a vehicle which allows business to publicise their sustainability credentials."

 

Among the businesses that have already pledged their support are RTÉ, ABP Food Group (Anglo Beef Processors), Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) and Fuzion Communications. Down Syndrome Ireland, Barnardos and Make A Wish Ireland are among the charities that hope to benefit from Green 50. 

 

RTÉ has pledged to donate income received from the reuse of toner cartridges to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin.

 

Noel Curran, Director-General RTÉ said, “RTÉ is delighted to support the Green 50 programme. As participants in this programme, RTÉ will endeavour, not only to continue to pursue the highest standards in energy-efficient broadcasting, but also to ensure that maximum benefit is derived from savings made."

 

ABP Food Group plans to replace existing lighting in its plant in West Cork with efficient LED lighting which will save the facility thousands of euros, half of which will be donated to charity. Green 50 is welcoming both businesses and charities to support and participate in the programme.

For more information visit www.green50.ie.