Living our values – Powering a sustainable future

Caring for the planet has never been more important, and taking action can make a real difference. We’re delighted to showcase our Zenergi colleagues who are putting our values into personal practice.

Meet Matt Varney, one of Zenergi’s bill validation experts, who spent a week in Australia recently, helping to protect marine life and assess the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

This is what Matt shared from his adventure…

What did the project involve?

I joined a team conducting coral watches, marine life counts, and green/hawksbill turtle surveys to evaluate population numbers and overall ecosystem health. These studies took place on Fitzroy Island and Green Island, where we collected data to determine the success of conservation efforts.

What were the key findings?

A particularly striking observation was that approximately 20% of the corals surveyed exhibited signs of bleaching, a stark reminder of the devastating effects of climate change on marine life.

What were your highlights from the trip?

One of the highlights was recording and identifying several green turtles, as well as encountering a variety of marine species, including Maori wrasse, blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, and honeycomb stingrays.

Did you take part in any other environmental activities?

Yes! In addition to marine surveys, we participated in one of the monthly beach clean-ups on Fitzroy Island. In my team alone, we collected 12.3 kg of waste, including 143 pieces of microplastics. Our efforts removed harmful debris from the environment and provided valuable data on the types and quantities of waste affecting marine ecosystems. We also learned about the long decomposition times of various materials and the impact of plastics on wildlife.

How did you prepare for the trip in a sustainable way?

I implemented several environmentally friendly cost-saving strategies so that I could fund the trip. Simple actions such as minimising energy consumption (turning off lights, showering efficiently, and reducing oven usage), preparing meals in bulk, and using public transport helped me to reduce my outgoings before I went so I could save for the trip, while also living more sustainably which I believe strongly in.

Was this your first volunteering experience?

No, I also volunteered in Cordoba, Argentina, the previous year, working in a soup kitchen. I assisted in meal preparation and gained insight into poverty and homelessness. To support the kitchen’s ongoing efforts, I contributed essential supplies, including vegetable oil, rice, polenta, vegetable stock, and much-needed cooking equipment. This experience reinforced the importance of community support and resource sharing.

What’s next in your sustainability journey?

I’ll be heading off to Greece in June to do some dolphin conservation work. And I’m taking my Mum along this time too!

What message would you give to others interested in getting involved in similar ventures?

Engaging in these projects has reinforced my belief that the world is full of opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Whether through conservation efforts, community aid, or sustainable living practices, everyone has the power to drive positive change. I encourage anyone passionate about environmental or social causes to explore volunteer opportunities and embrace the rewards of giving back.

Action makes a difference, no matter how small. What matters is taking the first step. At Zenergi, we’re here to help make that step easy. We’d love to feature your story too, so if you’re a net zero hero, both in and out of work, then get in touch so we can showcase your adventure with our community of readers.