Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/726594
STARRINKS.COM SEPTEMBER.OCTOBER.2016 / 33 Paris 2015—World Energy Conference: World leaders meet to discuss climate change and agree upon emission reduc- tions. The impact of this agreement will be debated for years. The consensus is that this agreement is historic and significant. Watching world events on the evening news makes the discussion of climate change seem abstract and like something that policy makers deal with exclusively. Will it really mean anything to me? Will it make any difference in my day-to-day life? Will everything cost more now? If it does, how will our business adapt? Considering sustainability improvements is often viewed in this negative sort of light. Many believe cutting emissions means increased expenses. If it didn't, we'd all be doing it now, right? COST INTEGRATION Ice rinks operate using a variety of end- use energy devices from the light energy that illuminates our skating surface to refrigeration energy that freezes that ice, to heating energy that warms our locker room and showers. Ice rinks purchase energy to provide all of these separate needs—but most often use this purchased energy just once. What would happen if we recycled energy in our ice rinks? The concept of becoming more sustainable has become entangled with increased expenses and investment returns far into our children's retirement. Simply put, increased sustainability is something people who can afford it will do, but the rest of us literally cannot afford to participate. The steps involved in recycling are // by IAN B. STOREY Energy Recycling and Cost Integration