Eco-friendly funeral director shortlisted for award

Ian Hazel Funerals in Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield has been short listed for a national Love Energy Savings Innovative Saver award. The winner will be announced in September 2016. The family firm recently installed a 78-panel solar energy system on its south facing garage roof. This will generate enough electricity every year to cover almost 70 percent of the funeral home’s total needs. Managing director Ian Hazel, supported by his daughters Amy and Emma, has been awarded the highest possible Energy Performance Certificate (A). Ian Hazel commented: “We have offered green funerals for many years – providing ethically-sourced coffins made of natural materials, woodland burials and other products and services that have become increasingly important to bereaved families. However a couple of years ago we also started work to ensure that the operation of our business was as sensitive to the environment as the services we offer. “When our newly built premises in Four Oaks were completed two years ago, we invested in energy-saving systems such as under floor heating, a “Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery” system, LED lighting with motion sensors and rainwater harvesting. Now we’ve reduced our energy requirements as much as we can, we’re harnessing solar technology to help us generate the power that we do need as naturally as possible. It is a huge investment for our family but will pay itself back in less than six years. The firm is undergoing a two-year transition from petrol hearses and limousines to a diesel powered Jaguar funeral fleet. The new vehicles are elegant, respectful and comfortable for families. They are also more fuel-efficient and emit lower emissions. Ian continued: “We know from the many comments we receive that the local community in Four Oaks appreciates our commitment to offering Sutton Coldfield an environmentally responsible funeral home. Our aim is to support families in whatever way we can at a difficult time in their lives, but also to offer a sustainable service - so that families can feel comfortable that the funeral they arrange with us respects the environment and leaves the smallest possible carbon footprint.” For more information go to www.loveenergysavings.com/the-love-energy-awards/.