Bank lends green hand- Berwick Bendigo Bank branch manager Tracey Kelly is urging local businesses to decrease their energy consumption. 63362

BENDIGO is helping local businesses go green and reduce their carbon footprint.
Bendigo Bank has teamed up with Carbon Down to help local businesses decrease energy consumption, save money and help the environment by giving them the opportunity to win $10,000 through the ‘Generation Green Energy Saver Initiative’.
Berwick Bendigo Bank Branch is set to reward businesses that have embraced sustainable business practices.
Berwick Bendigo Bank branch manager Tracey Kelly said by changing everyday habits at work, there was plenty of scope for businesses to cut down on power, save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
“Electricity use accounts for 71 per cent of the average business’ carbon footprint, but by making a few simple changes every business could reduce its energy consumption and save money,” Ms Kelly said.
“Electrical items left on standby account for more than six per cent of Australia’s commercial electricity usage, costing the business community more than $588 million each year.
“It’s easy to leave appliances on standby without realising the significant impact that standby power has on their energy consumption and power bills.”
To enter the Energy Saver Initiative visit the Generation Green website and explain what your organisation has done or could do to save energy and reduce its environmental impact.
The most innovative responses will be rewarded with prizes.
First prize will win $10,000 to spend on improving their business’ energy efficiency, second prize will win Bendigo Bank Financial Planning Advice and Services valued at $5000 and third prize will take home a Business Energy Assessment from VECCI Sustainability Services at $1000.
In addition, the first 5000 entrants will receive an energy saving power board with a retail value of $49.95.
Visit www.bendigobank.com.au/generationgreen to enter. Entries close at midnight on Tuesday 31 May.