By James Kelly on February 11th, 2020 in SCS News
As with everything we do in business these days, it’s important we’re as environmentally aware as possible. Smartcard Store knows the importance of the environment – so much so we’ve dedicated a section of our hub to eco-friendly products.
But when we talk about the “environment”, that doesn’t just refer to being more green in the products we supply; there are other ways access control systems can impact the environment too – both negatively and positively. Here are three important considerations when you’re implementing an access control system.
Plastic is a hot topic at the moment and reducing the amount of non-recyclable and non-biodegradable plastic in workplaces is something that has had a real spotlight shone on to it.
Many businesses and organisations use access control cards that are swiped or scanned via a reader and this use of plastic cards does raise questions as to whether there is a better option that isn’t potentially going to be so harmful to the planet.
Here at the Smartcard Store, to try and alleviate this issue, we have started stocking not just a range of biodegradable plastic cards that can be used for printing but also stock key fobs and stickers that are all compatible with different access control systems. These two alternatives are generally harder wearing or contain less plastic than a card, making them more suitable for the environmentally-conscious business.
Contactless and proximity access control systems use radio frequencies to work and there is always talk of how these frequencies affect both human health and the environment but if this is a concern to you and your business when choosing a security system, it doesn’t need to be.
Although studies have been done that demonstrate developmental damage to plants and wildlife when exposed to different levels of radio frequencies, access control systems use very low levels of radio-frequency and due to the system being internal within the building, the risk to the environment is next to none.
We often focus on the negatives in these situations, instead of looking at how an access control system could actually help businesses be more eco-friendly and sustainable.
There is an argument that suggests that access control systems actually allow businesses to be better aware of the usage of their office space, being able to monitor who has accessed which areas and how often, therefore providing data that can then be used to design more effective plans for heating and lighting the building.
By using data collected from the access control system, you can accurately see which areas of your office building are not used, therefore reducing heating or air conditioning in these spaces to save money and energy.
Every security system has pros and cons to the environment but in comparison to others, access control systems can be an economically and environmentally beneficial choice for your business.
Smartcard Store is committed to helping the environment, and we do that by helping find customers more sustainable products.
Our in-depth eco-friendly ID sustainable products guide gives you an in-depth look at some of the best products that can help reduce your carbon footprint as well as advice when it comes to disposing of your ID cards and associated accessories.
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