PART OF THE SOLUTION
Sustainable Development Report2001
A report on MTS’s Environmental Commitment, Performance, Initiatives and Programs.
Table of Contents
ONE
Company Profile
TWO
Environmental Policy
THREE
Environmental Commitment
FOUR
Environmental Performance
FIVE
Environmental Initiatives
SIX
Environmental Programs Report
SEVEN
3 R’s Programs
EIGHT
3 R’s Programs
NINE
3 R’s Programs
TEN
Manitoba Telecom Pioneers
ELEVEN
Initiatives for 2002
TWELVE
Environmental Management
THIRTEEN
Contact Information
© Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. 2002
All rights reserved. No part of this Report may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever, without prior written permission of Manitoba Telecom Services Inc.
COMPANY PROFILE
Manitoba Telecom Services is Manitoba’s preeminent, full-service communications company. Seamlessly blending innovative solutions and world class technology, MTS connects its customers to the world. Qunara Inc., MTS’s eCommerce, eBusiness and Internet Data Centre subsidiary, provides business solutions across North America. Through its investment in Bell West, MTS in partnership with Bell Canada delivers leading edge telecommunications services including next generation IP broadband services to businesses in Alberta and British Columbia. MTS’s common shares are listed on The Toronto Stock Exchange (trading symbol: MBT).
Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. (“MTS”), through its subsidiary companies, is western Canada’s leading regional provider of communications products and services. In Manitoba, MTS is the province’s only full service provider of local, long distance, wireless, directory, Internet, e-commerce and on-line multimedia telecommunication services. Services are delivered over world class fibre optics based digital networks. MTS’s facilities are located throughout Manitoba, in both densely populated urban centres as well as in remote rural locations. As the owner and lessee of land, MTS has an obligation to protect and serve the environment in which these facilities are located.
O N E
C
OMPANY
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Policy Statement
MTS is committed to conducting its business in a manner which reflects concern for the environment and supports the principles of sustainable development.
Goals
1. Procedures & Guidelines
To develop and implement procedures and guidelines which will give effect to the Environmental Policy.
To comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding the environment and sustainable development.
2. Communication and Education
To encourage and foster environmentally sensitive attitudes, knowledge and skills of employees through communication, education and community involvement.
To provide an annual report to the Executive and to the Board of Directors on environmental matters affecting MTS.
To provide reports to the Executive and to the Board of Directors on environmental matters affecting MTS, whenever the Board has to make decisions.
3. Waste Management
To set objectives and seek out measures within all operational groups which demonstrate commitment to sound environmental practices, which minimize the creation of waste and which maximize the principles of reduce, re-use and recycle within MTS.
To dispose of waste in an environmentally sound manner.
4. Chemical Control and Emergency Procedures
To identify and inventory substances used in MTS and substitute, wherever practical and reasonable, environmentally friendly substances.
To develop and monitor environmental emergency procedures and train appropriate staff for emergency situations.
5. Environmental Initiatives
To encourage innovative technology, products and services that contribute to preservation of the environment or minimize negative environmental impact.
6. Environmental Audits
To monitor procedures for compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations.
ENVIRONMENTAL
POLICY
T H R E E
MTS Environmental
Mission Statement:
“MTS is committed to conducting its business in a manner which reflects concern for the environment and supports the principles of sustainable development.”
E
NVIRONMENTAL
COMMITMENT
ELEMENTS OF THE
ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM
T
he EnvironmentalManagement System (EMS) is an integral part of MTS’ overall operations. MTS is conscious of the environmental footprint it leaves in all its
facilities and operations. It is everyone’s job at MTS to preserve and protect our environment.
MTS’s EMS begins with the MTS Environmental Policy. It employs the elements of planning, implementation, checking and correction, and management review which may in turn result in changes to the Environmental Policy.
The EMS ensures due diligence and compliance with
environmental laws and regulations, avoids and reduces waste streams, and prevents environmentally-damaging effects from MTS activities. The EMS provides the organizational structure, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources for implementing the MTS Environmental Policy and complying with
environmental laws.
EMS
Management Review Implementation
Planning Checking and Correction
compliance with applicable environmental laws, regulations, licences, approvals and
registrations and with the MTS EMS. Information on the results of the review is provided to Executive Management and Board of Directors in the Annual Environmental Review report. The 2001 MTS Environmental Compliance and Management System Review focused on an external legal review of the existing EMS.
F O U R
E
NVIRONMENTAL
PERFORMANCE
2001
ENVIRONMENTAL
COMPLIANCE AND
MANAGEMENT
REVIEW
E
ach year MTS conducts an internal review of operations and policy to ensure compliance with the EMS. This annual environmental review is intended to determineConclusion
The 2002 Edition of the Environmental Management System is a due diligent system for achieving compliance with the environmental law covering Manitoba.
MTS maintains over 600 buildings and satellites in urban, agricultural and isolated locations.
F I V E
E
NVIRONMENTAL
INITIATIVES
REPORT ON 2001 ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES
Lubricant Life
Cycle Audit
In 2001, the life-cycle analysis investigated purchasing and packaging requirements. This audit is intended to determine whether an economical and environmentally responsible approach is being taken to obtaining, transporting, and disposing lubricants. What we found:
MTS can account for 89% of all the engine oil purchased and recycled.
All oil filters are crushed with the oil collected and the metal recycled.
174 plastic oil containers were collected and processed into plastic fence posts. MTS Automotive Services are compliant with Manitoba Regulation 86/97, the used oil, oil filters and container stewardship regulation under the Waste Reduction and Prevention Act.
Ozone Depleting
Substances
MTS continues to make progress towards removing Halon fixed fire suppression equipment from its building inventory. In 2001, the Halon system was removed from a computer room at MTS’s 1300 Ellice Ave location.
Energy
Innovators
Program
This energy management program focuses on reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases throughout MTS operations. The goal of the regulation is to reduce green house gases to 1990 levels. In 2001, natural gas inventories were collected on stationary sources. This was a necessary step to provide a benchmark on what our building consumption is and how it compares to 1990 inventories.
What we found:
Natural Gas Usage
Year Cubic feet per year 2001 297,626
2000 309,252 1990 472,286
The gas reduction was mainly due to less properties, implementing temperature control practices including set back thermostats and cycling of building fans, weather stripping doors, window improvements and removing out of date gas fired boilers with electric heating systems in existing buildings. In 2001, the boiler systems were removed from two major buildings in Morden and Winkler. The change to electric heating resulted in the elimination of boiler chemicals, reduced water consumption, and reduced maintenance.
Energy savings can be gained in building design.
S I X
E
NVIRONMENTAL
PROGRAMS REPORT
T
he telecommunications industry is a technology-based industry. Modern telecommunications not only improve the quality of life for Manitobans, but can, indirectly, have a positive impact on the environment. MTS must ensure that applying these technologies is sensitive to the existing environment. Listed are some of the technologies and practices MTS uses to minimize impacts on the environment.Technology and
Services
Teleconferencing and Videoconferencing Teleconferencing and Videoconferencing are increasingly becoming a viable business tool for the 1990s, reducing the need for travel, and the associated impact on the environment. Thus, these telecommunications services can have a positive impact on the environment as well as improving the bottom-line for business.Directional Drilling Technology
New telephone and internet technologies have increased the demand for dedicated land lines; consequently, MTS is installing state of the art fiber optic wire to enhance its underground network.
Conventional trenching and excavating will negatively impact on the soil, vegetation, and may cause excessive erosion to shorelines, beaches, and water crossings. To address this need for responsible line installation, Directional Drilling Technology will be used for installations at all water crossings and shorelines. Directional Drilling Technology has been
implemented to preserve the vegetation, minimize erosion, reduce sediment and preserve fish habitat.
Telephone Directory (Alternative Technology) Manitoba consumers and advertisers still demand a paper version of both the White and Yellow Pages (TM) Directories. MTS Advanced has introduced electronic services which may reduce the total number of paper directories necessary in the future. Online directory services through myWinnipeg.com, myManitoba.com and a CD version of the fast finderTM Directory are alternatives to the paper directory, and demand is increasing for them.
In Manitoba, paper directories are recycled through the Blue Box and other collection programs administered through cities and local municipalities. In addition, MTS collected 298,500 directories from large business customers in 2001.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS REPORT
Conferencing Report
Conferences in 2001 External customers MTS Totals
Videoconferences 273 47 320
Teleconferences 11205 215 11420
Fleet Services Fuel Efficiency
MTS operates a vehicle fleet of 845 units that range from passenger to heavy weight trucks (>6,500kg). The majority of the fleet is gas powered and the remainder is diesel powered.
While the amount of overall kilometers has increased due to operations and business service areas, MTS Automotive Services has implemented policies which have reduced the number of litres consumed per kilometer.
Significant improvement in fuel efficiency was achieved during the past two years. In 2000, litres/KM traveled decreased by 11.4% and in 2001 it declined another 9.4%. One of the major contributing factors was the implementation and communication of a “Vehicle Idling” policy in 2000, which focused greater attention on responsible vehicle operating practices to improve fuel efficiency and drive down consumption.
S E V E N
3
R’S
PROGRAMS
3 R’S PROGRAMS
Consistent with MTS’s Environmental Management System, many MTS departments seek out sound environmental practices which minimize the creation of waste and maximize the principles of reduce, re-use and recycle within MTS.
Automotive Services
Automotive Services provides engine services for 154 diesel sites and 845 vehicles in Manitoba. MTS uses diesel generators to provide back-up standby power at 85 sites, and continuous power to sites in remote locations. Automotive Services implemented a comprehensive recycling program to handle waste products generated from engine service.
Automotive Services Recycle Report
Material Quantity 2001 Quantity 2000 Unit
Tires 600 580 Each
Batteries 90 67 Each
Oil 8300 9020 Litres
Crushed Filters 2.75 2 Drums
Plastics 283 174 Kg
Antifreeze 615 615 Litres
MTS standard ladder rack van. Used by Field Service Technicians throughout the province.
80 Kilowatt standby generator at Morden Dial Office
E I G H T
Supply Services
The Investment Recovery Department of Supply Services collects and categorizes used, obsolete, out of service equipment and associated material from the field for reuse, or appropriate disposal. Materials destined for the landfill are diverted to recyclers and companies which can reuse the product.
In 1996, MTS implemented a recycling program for Nickel Cadmium batteries. To complement MTS’s internal battery recycling program, MTS offers Ni-Cad recycling to MTS customers who purchase batteries from the MTS Retail stores. In 2000 & 2001, MTS recovered 230Kg of Ni-Cad batteries. To date 2000 Kg of Nickel - Cadmium batteries have been recycled.
Many products at the end of the MTS lifecycle are returned to service by an outside user or recycled for metals and reusable resources.
Recycling Toner Cartridges
Recycled printer and fax cartridges are in use in most MTS office operations. Use of remanufactured cartridges saves resources, energy, reduces landfill volume and supports employment in Manitoba. In addition, remanufactured cartridges are cost efficient with savings of 11-80%, depending on specific cartridge used.
In 2002, MTS Supply Services will increase awareness of remanufactured cartridges, and expects to see a substantial increase in their use.
Remanufactured Cartridge Use
Toner cartridge Original manufactured Remanufactured % of total
Quantity 2001 764 541 41.5
Supply Services Recycle Report
Material Quantity 2001 Quantity 2000 Unit
Lead 24770 19100 Kg
Wire 11280 10090 Kg
Cable 74860 66000 Kg
Aluminum 4046 435 Kg
Steel and Metal 147900 167200 Kg
Telephone sets refurbished 49317 60504 Telephones
Computers for School Program 60 0 Computers
3
R’S
PROGRAMS
purchases cartridges cartridges
Distribution frame wire removed from the Central Office rack is just one of the types of wire recycled at MTS.
Total recycled paper,
Office Paper Program
An office paper program is effective when both recycling and reduction programs are used to divert paper from the landfill. At MTS, an effective paper recycling program has been established in office buildings. In 1999, the amount of paper recycled peaked as a result of purging files to accommodate the move to a downtown office tower. The lower recycle numbers in 2001 and 2002 are reflected in the technology changes such as electronic communication, on line purchasing programs, internet access to information, electronic manuals and employee self service programs.
Office Paper Recycling Report
Quantity 2001 Quantity 2000 Quantity 1999 Quantity 1998
37.4 43.9 72.4 50.9
Processes are in place to collect and recycle paper products in MTS office buildings. However, the greater challenge is to motivate employees to reduce paper by reducing printed copies from electronic formats. Two initiatives to reduce the paper quantity are the internal electronic communication system and Supply Services online direct purchasing program to many suppliers.
3
R’S
PROGRAMS
N I N E
collected and recycled.Metric tons
Good property management practices can reduce energy costs, natural gas consumption and water use.(Dauphin Office)
Aluminum Can Recycling
The Manitoba Telecom Pioneers promote environmental responsibility with their modest yet effective recycling project, “Two Small Men with Big Aluminum Hearts”.
The Manitoba Telecom Pioneers operate the aluminum collection operations at all MTS offices and work centers. The aluminum collected is taken to a recycle dealer and exchanged for cash. The cash is then allocated for community projects. In 2001, 2080 kilograms of aluminum was recycled.
The aluminum collection operations contributed $1834 to the Early Literacy - Home Reading Program. This project provides students from Kindergarten to Grade Three with opportunities to become avid readers.
International Peace Gardens Project
June 8 - 10, 2001 saw Pioneers from North Dakota, Saskatchewan and Manitoba come together to work on one common project. MTS and the Pioneers sponsored a playground structure and were able to erect it during the weekend. The Pioneers were able to paint two playground maps - one of Canada and one of the US - at the front entrance to the gardens. They also helped tear down an old amphitheater and painted buildings. Volunteers planted 50,000 flowers and helped with maintenance on perennial gardens. This will now be an annual June project for the Manitoba Telecom Pioneers.
These grassroots projects benefit the Pioneers, the community, MTS, and the environment.
M
ANITOBA
TELECOM PIONEERS
T E N
Official Logo for telephone pioneers.
Facility Energy
Auditing and
Baseline
Consumption
Modeling
Three facilities of similar type will be audited and their consumption profiles will be documented. This initiative will quantify the potential effect of energy conservation
opportunities within the facility.
Chiller
Decommissioning
Decommissioning the existing chiller at MTS’s 166 Portage Ave. East location will provide environment benefits by reducing electrical load, eliminating R11 Ozone Depleting refrigerant, reducing chemicals water treatment, and reducing water consumption.
Electronic
Chemical
Management
Program
MTS will be placing all Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) on an intranet e-service. Complying with Canada Labour Code WHMIS Regulations, MSDS will be available to all work-sites in electronic format. A 24 hour fax service will still be provided through MTS’s Provincial Network Operating Control Center.
Automotive
Services Initiatives
to Improve
Efficiency
Automotive Services will be implementing two initiatives to achieve a goal of 4% reduction on fleet fuels.
A review of vehicle specifications for all future acquisitions to ensure they match job requirements with the objective of maximizing fuel-saving opportunities. A “ Driving Fuel Efficiently” program to elevate the
awareness of how driving habits affect fuel consumption.
I
NITIATIVES
FOR 2002
E L E V E N
Proper storage and handling of chemicals in buildings ensures good environmental and safety practices.
E
NVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT
Highlights of MTS’s Environmental Management
1990-1999 MTS initiates an extensive upgrade of tank systems at fuel storage facilities. 154 tanks are evaluated and modified or replaced to meet present environmental regulations.
MTS includes an environmental preference clause in its paper purchasing policy. This
clause reserves the right to give preference to paper products which meet the criteria to use the CSA “Environmental Choice” logo.
The Environmental Management and Compliance Manual is endorsed and accepted
by the MTS Executive and Board of Commissioners. This document establishes MTS’s Environmental Management System identifying the requirements for annual reporting, implementation of goals and objectives, and procedures for complying with environmental regulations.
1997 MTS introduces double-sided bills to its bill printing process and mailing services. Estimated reduction of 4 million sheets of paper per year.
1997 A fire extinguisher replacement program removes all Halon fire extinguishers from MTS properties. This program was awarded the 1998 Manitoba Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award of Excellence.
1997 MTS commits to purchasing only computer equipment that meets the program
criteria identified with the “Energy Star” logo. The purchasing plan is based on the system requirements of 1,500 personal computers with monitors and printers, resulting in an efficient and more responsible use of resources.
1998 In 1998, MTS Property Services implements the mini-bin waste management system
at MTS. The mini-bin system uses a personal sized container for waste management at each workstation. The employee is responsible for collecting and disposing of their personal garbage. The small bin conditions the worker to be aware of the amount of waste generated. The program is complemented with an all paper fiber collection and recycling program. As a result, large amounts of paper products that would otherwise end up in the garbage and eventually in landfill are recycled.
1998 “Lights Out” Program: Property Services implements a poster and sticker program
next to light switches remind employees throughout out the province to turn off lights, computers, monitors, printers, copiers, and other appliances when not in use. 1998/1999 MTS’s “Reprographics” implements a number of environmental initiatives in its daily activities. Highlights include use of:Environmental choice paper products.Donations of unused printing inks to local public schools with printing programs.A dedicated paper recycling program.Storing minimum quantities of printing solvents and supplies on site.
2000 In 2000, to address the transportation issue of working downtown, MTS
Environment and Corporate Communications produced an informational pamphlet to increase employee awareness of the environmental and financial benefits of green commuting. Home dispatch and telecomuting programs have been successful for some business applications.
2001 In 2001, MTS initiated an energy management program focusing on reducing energy
consumption and green house gases throughout MTS operations. Successful programs include retiring out of date fuel fired boilers and effective temperature control practices in buildings.
For information on MTS Environmental programs please contact:
Fred Riddle
Manager Environment Programs 204-941-6521
MTS Human Resources Department
