Thorlux

Thorlux Lighting, a company which specialises in the manufacture of commercial/industrial lighting systems, recently purchased 215 acres of land between Devauden and Wolvesnewton.  The company has begun using the land for a carbon offsetting project.  

The concept for project is as follows: clients installing new lighting systems will be able to calculate the amount of carbon dioxide which will released into the atmosphere as a result of the electricity generation to power the lights.  They will be given the opportunity to pay for the planting of a number of trees required to offset this for a given length of time. 

Although Thorlux acknowledge that carbon offsetting is not a cure for climate change and that reducing energy consumption has a greater effect, they feel that the project will help to reduce the environmental impact of their products as well as raising awareness about these important issues.

The planting began earlier this year and in total 2500 saplings have been planted so far.  The company has chosen to plant native broadleaf species, such as oak and ash, as it is hoped that this will benefit indigenous wildlife. 

More details about the project (including maps of the planting scheme) can be found at the company's website (www.thorlux.com/trees).

Whilst many people welcome the efforts of companies like Thorlux Lighting in adopting a responsible approach to the environment, there has been some local criticism of the scheme as the land had previously been cleared for agriculture.  Devauden Community Council have objected to a planning application for a gravelled parking area for five cars at the site and have also objected to an application for free standing, non illuminated information boards.  Monmouthshire County Council have contacted us say that the application is going to be presented to planning committee on the 28th July 2009 and it has been recommended for approval by Officers, for Committee Members to consider.

Update - November 2009

Matt Jones, Senior Project Engineer for Thorlux, has contacted devauden.org.uk to point out that Monmouthshire County Council have now approved their application for the visitors car park and information displays. This work is to be undertaken in approximately the next six months by residents of Devauden.

External Links:

   www.thorlux.com/trees