How a free carbon survey opened doors for a Bristol sports club

A free carbon survey from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) Growth Hub became a catalyst for change at Redland Green Club – a racquets club, gym, and Bristol Climate & Nature Partnership member.

After providing clear, tailored guidance on how to reduce emissions, the survey unlocked £35,000 in grant funding which has kick-started the Club’s climate action journey. In this blog, Rita Bourn, Chair of the Club’s Environmental and Ethical Advisory Group, shares the impact it’s had. 

At Redland Green Club, we’ve delivered a wide range of energy upgrades and nature-based improvements – cutting carbon emissions, lowering energy costs, and enhancing spaces for wildlife and the local community. Our journey shows how starting with a carbon survey can give organisations the confidence and evidence needed to make important changes to lessen their impact on the environment.

Where our journey started

Over four years ago, the Environmental and Ethical Advisory Group was formed by a group of committed Redland Green Club members. Together, we developed an environmental and ethical policy for the Club, setting a clear direction for long-term climate action.

One of our first priorities was improving the energy efficiency of the clubhouse. The ageing, uninsulated roof was responsible for 80% of the Club’s heat loss, driving up both emissions and running costs.

In late 2022, we contacted WECA to request a free Carbon Survey for small and medium-sized enterprises. An adviser came and audited our premises, and made practical recommendations on how we could cut emissions across the site.

Off the back of the carbon survey, we were delighted to secure a £35,000 Green Business Grant from WECA, meaning we could start turning the recommendations into reality.

From plans to action

With funding in place, we have delivered a range of improvements at the Club based on the carbon survey’s findings. These include:

• Converting all floodlights and clubhouse lighting to energy-efficient LEDs;

• Installing a timer to automatically switch drinks chillers off when not in use;

• Fitting passive infrared (PIR) sensors so lights turn off when spaces are empty;

• Replacing and fully insulating the roof to reduce heat loss;

• Installing 158 solar panels on the large south-facing roof to generate renewable energy on site.

Together, these changes are helping the Club lower our carbon footprint whilst creating a more resilient, energy-efficient space for members and the wider community.

Creating space for nature

Alongside decarbonisation work, we have also been taking action for nature. Working with our neighbours at the Redland Green Community Group, we started by transforming a previously neglected area of land into a thriving habitat.

Now affectionately known as the ‘Biodiversity Bank’, the space features a native wildlife hedge and the beginnings of a wildflower meadow. During wet weather, a boggy patch turns into a small stream where a community of water mint now flourishes.

We have also enhanced habitats along the edge of a tennis court by planting a wild privet hedge, providing food for pollinators and shelter for birds. These nature-based improvements are helping to create a richer, more welcoming environment for both wildlife and people.

What’s next

Looking ahead, we are continuing to explore ways to adapt to a changing climate and improve our relationship with local nature. Plans for 2026 include:

• Installing a fully double-glazed porch;

• Introducing drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly planting around the clubhouse;

• Piloting stopping the use of chemical weedkillers on selected areas of land, and switching to organic product instead.

Our journey shows how a carbon survey, local funding, and strong leadership can come together to deliver real climate and nature benefits. By taking action now, organisations across Bristol can reduce costs, support biodiversity and play their part in building a healthier, more resilient city for everyone.

Are you a small or medium-sized enterprise in the West of England region? Get your free carbon survey here.