'A CSmart Organisation is aware of its carbon footprint, has a Carbon Management Policy in place and is taking positive steps to reduce its emissions within a Carbon Management Action Plan.'

In 2008 the Crichton Carbon Centre (CCC) worked with over 50 businesses to deliver energy and greenhouse gas efficiency reports under the Carbon Opportunities project. The reports included recommendations for generating emission reductions and financial savings. The reports produced in the original project were extremely well received. However, we are aware that more support and advice is often needed to help organisations implement some recommendations and for them to make changes that have a lasting effect.

In 2008 CCC was awarded funds from the Dumfries & Galloway LEADER Programme to continue working with local organisations, helping them reduce emissions through a 'Carbon Organisations Project'. The scope of the new project allows us to continue working with some of our earlier clients and also to extend our assistance to a range of non-business organisations.

The 2 year project will allow us to work 24 local rural organisations, providing guidance and assistance over a period of 4-6 months as they embark on their carbon journey. We have so far started working with 10 organisations, with a view to extending our assistance to a range of new clients, both businesses and non-business organisations.

Within the 'Carbon Organisations Project' we work together with the organisation through a series of key stages, helping them as they appoint a 'Carbon Champion', calculate their carbon footprint, write their Carbon Management Policy and take steps to reduce their carbon emissions within a Carbon Management Action Plan (CMAP). We dedicate time to helping the organisation overcome the barriers to reducing their carbon footprint to ensure that at the end of the process they have the confidence and capabilities to continue their good work.

The funding also allows us to develop a helpful series of briefing notes on various topics relating to the issues faced by local organisations. These will be available to the whole region through this website.

Through the project, we are able to offer a wide range of assistance including staff training, guidance on communicating with customers and supply chain, assistance with accessing funding streams, sourcing local suppliers, and research into specific options.  

If your organisation is interested in being a part of this project, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ,  to find out more and arrange an exploratory meeting.