My Journey as a Net Zero Officer: Driving Sustainability at Supporting Communities

by Natalie Mayes

When I first stepped into my role as a Net Zero Officer at Supporting Communities, I had no idea how transformative this experience would be. Little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey that would not only shape the organisation's sustainability efforts but also profoundly impact my personal and professional growth.

Supporting Communities was a revelation to me. I quickly learned about their incredible work in community development, social inclusion, and advocacy. Their mission to empower local communities resonated deeply with me, and I was thrilled to contribute to such meaningful work.

So, what does a Net Zero Officer do? Let me take you through some of the exciting projects I've been involved in:

1. Spreading the Green Gospel

My first challenge was to educate our staff about achieving net zero. Through presentations on reducing home emissions, I watched as my colleagues became increasingly aware of their environmental impact. It was inspiring to see them actively seeking ways to shrink their carbon footprints.

2. Number Crunching for the Planet

Data is king in the world of sustainability. I dove headfirst into calculating our organisation's carbon footprint for the past three years. This meticulous process gave us a clear roadmap for our sustainability journey and taught me the power of data-driven decision-making.

3. Crafting a Green Roadmap

One of my proudest achievements was developing an environmental policy covering travel, purchasing, and environmental practices. After extensive research and collaboration with our Board of Governors, we created a guiding document that not only aligns with our net zero goals but also sets a benchmark for other organisations.

4. Greening the Digital World

Did you know that even websites have carbon footprints? I investigated 'green' web hosts to make our online presence more eco-friendly. It's amazing how every aspect of our work can be optimised for sustainability!

5. Becoming Carbon Literate

Completing carbon literacy training was a game-changer. It equipped me with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate about carbon reduction and sustainability. Now, I feel empowered to inspire others to take meaningful action towards achieving net zero.

6. Partnering for Change

One of the most exciting aspects of my role has been collaborating with the Housing Executive NI. Together, we're creating a training program to educate community groups on energy awareness and carbon literacy. It's incredibly fulfilling to extend our impact beyond the organisation and into the wider community.

As I reflect on my time at Supporting Communities, I'm filled with gratitude. The warm welcome I received from day one and the unwavering support from everyone, especially the Finance Department and Senior Management Team, has made this experience truly special.

This placement has been more than just a job; it's been a journey of discovery. I've gained new skills, developed existing ones, and deepened my commitment to environmental stewardship. Most importantly, I've learned that dedicated individuals and organisations can make a significant impact in creating a more sustainable future.

As I prepare to graduate, I'm excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. One thing's for sure – I'd jump at the chance to work with Supporting Communities again. Here's to a greener, more sustainable future for all!