Selfridges pledge to reduce energy emissions

Selfridges has pledged to help Manchester tackle climate change as part of the Challenge Manchester 2008 - 100 days to a cleaner, greener city campaign.

The prestigious Manchester store has a target to cut electricity use by six per cent this year, saving unnecessary emissions into Manchester's atmosphere.

The company will do this by installing more energy efficient light bulbs throughout the store, as well as motion sensors which will turn lights on when customers walk into the centre's toilets and turn off as they leave.

They will also install an automated lighting system for cleaners and other staff who need to work in the store at night after customers have left - such as those doing evening shop-fits. The system will ensure that only the areas in which they are working will be lit, rather than the whole store.

Selfridges made this pledge as part of the Challenge Manchester campaign, in which businesses across the city were asked to make a commitment to improve the environment.

Councillor Eddy Newman, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: "We are delighted that Selfridges has come on board to help us tackle climate change in Manchester, they have been very supportive of the 100 days challenge and are award winners of Manchester's Environmental Business Pledge, which helps businesses reduce their environmental footprint and save money at the same time.

"A big thank you to Selfridges, who are helping Manchester's thriving retail sector to improve the environment as well as the economy."

Jane Sharrocks, General Manager of Selfridges' Exchange Square store, said: "Sixty per cent of the electricity we use is for lighting. So, this year we will install more efficient lighting and automated lighting control equipment wherever we can.

"Our biggest opportunity to reduce energy use is when our customers go home. So, we will 'own the night' by switching off as much lighting and other equipment as possible out of trading hours."

About Challenge Manchester

Manchester City Council launched Challenge Manchester - 100 Days to a cleaner, greener city 2008 on February 14 at Manchester Town Hall.

The campaign will run until 24 May 2008, featuring 100 days of intense activity all over Manchester with the first 50 days focussing on green issues - primarily waste minimisation, recycling and climate change - and the next 50 days focussing on community clean-ups, local environmental improvements and planting schemes.

The council will also be asking residents and businesses about what they want the council to do to help them minimise waste and recycle more.

Challenge Manchester began in 2004 with "Challenge Manchester: 100 Days to a Clean City", and in its fifth successful year the campaign returns to its core aim to "clean up" the city.

More information about Challenge Manchester and how you can participate appears on our website http://www.challengemanchester.co.uk/

You can also e-mail campaigns.team@notes.manchester.gov.uk

or telephone 0161 954 9000

Media contact:

Conrad Astley, tel 0161 234 4027