Energy

The energy used to head studios, run machinery, digital devices and services in the day-to-day running of any jewellery or silversmithing studio is significant. Things like the choice of gas to fuel brazing or bench torches and the vehicles we travel in to attend events and selling fairs all contribute to energy use in your practice. Below are a range of ideas to consider in relation to energy in your practice, which are often cost-saving exercises in addition to being kind to the environment.

Electricity:

• Reduce energy waste by turning off appliances when not in use.

• Conserve use of heat or air conditioning—use a time to heat space only when necessary, and turn down to low or off when leaving.

• Opening and closing windows to manage temperature and air circulation as appropriate.

• Invest in energy efficient appliances, such as LED lighting.

• Measure and monitor your energy consumption by using a guide or energy calculator.

• Research renewable energy options.

• Use website servers that run on renewable energy.

• Invest in energy-smart building infrastructure such as double-glazed windows.

• If you are a studio tenant, ask your studio provider about their energy provider and energy-saving commitments.

Water:

• Re-use water in a basin.

• Do not leave tap water running unnecessarily.

• Be careful of what you are pouring into your water system. Consider your use of microplastics, steel wool, pumice powders and cleaning products which will enter the water system.

• NEVER dispose of hazardous chemicals such as etching acids and safety pickle down the drain. Seek local council disposal advice.

Donna Barry in the studio by James Robertson.

Gas for Torch Usage:

• Use appropriate torch flame and turn off when not in hand.

• Design products or adapt processes to reduce annealing, soldering or melting where possible.

• Safely manage gas supply to ensure hosing, connections, pressure valves and torches are all fit for purpose to reduce gas leaks and other health and safety risks.

Travel & Shipping:

• Consider buying from suppliers who ship products with low carbon footprints/carbon offsetting.

• Minimising travel and/or shipping in your business.

• Use modes of transport which are more sustainable where feasible.

• Choose green shipping options where possible.

• Search for alternatives such as holding virtual meetings, developing a local market or supply chain, etc.