Case Study: Cameron Optometry Achieves Net Zero Carbon Certification
23rd September 2024
Cameron Optometry has become the most recent in a line of optical practices to make a commitment to achieve Net Zero Eyecare’s Net Zero Carbon certification and follow through in a matter of months.
Their recent audit saw the practice achieving certified status as an Optical Recycling Centre, providing Carbon Neutral Eyewear, and as a Net Zero Carbon practice. This came as a result of a comprehensive process of carbon accounting to assess the practice’s annual carbon footprint, in line with the GHG Protocol’s carbon standards and Net Zero Eyecare’s certification standards, followed by a commitment to offset the practice’s unavoidable emissions via Net Zero Eyecare’s Gold Standard offsetting scheme over the next 12 months.
Ian Cameron, Managing Director of Cameron Optometry, said “Getting to Net Zero Carbon is a massive achievement for us. We’re keen to minimise our environmental impact and that’s been a bit of a journey because we’re a big practice. This is just the beginning - there's much more to do but this is a great foundation for us to build on as we reduce our footprint even further."
Mae Douglas, Optical Assistant at Cameron Optometry who undertook the challenge of the practice’s carbon accounts, added: “When I was tasked with carbon accounting for Cameron Optometry, I had little idea of what was involved. Through my work to achieve Net Zero Carbon status for the practice, I now appreciate the many aspects of the business that contribute to our carbon footprint and am excited to explore ways of reducing that footprint to minimize our overall impact on the environment.”
Andrew Clark, Net Zero Manager and Auditor at Practice Building commented: “Mae has done an exceptional job pulling together the necessary accounts for Cameron’s Optometry’s certifications; including conducting a thorough patient travel survey and engaging with their suppliers as much as possible. The next big challenge for all of us is to go deeper with suppliers, asking and supporting the industry to deliver clearer carbon data for products like contact lenses.”
Mae Douglas (left) and Ian Cameron (right) show their recent certificates in "eco-corner", alongside their optical recycling bins, lens cleaner refill station, and air-quality-boosting potted plant!