The Low Carbon Living program awards participating businesses with either a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum rating based on the actions they have taken to reduce their carbon footprint.
The ratings system is based on a points system out of 100.
Businesses that score less than 25 are classed as “Participants” and businesses that have joined but are yet to receive a rating are classed as “Not yet rated”.
Of the 100 possible points available:
70 are allocated to energy-related actions, such as upgrading to energy-efficient lightbulbs or installing solar panels
20 are assigned to waste management actions, such as composting and effective recycling
10 are based on water use, such as the installation of low-flow showers and taps.
From here, the following ratings are given:
Businesses that have taken actions to reduce their carbon footprint by 25% from their base measurements receive a bronze rating.
Businesses that have taken actions to reduce their carbon footprint by 50% from their base measurements receive a silver LCL rating.
Businesses that have taken actions to reduce their carbon footprint by 75% from their base measurements are awarded a gold rating.
Businesses that have taken actions to reduce their carbon footprint by 100% from their base measurements are awarded a platinum rating.