AXMINSTER Carpets is trying to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing operations by working with Exeter University.

AXMINSTER Carpets is trying to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing operations by working with Exeter University.

The company has entered into a Knowledge Transfer Partnership Scheme to look at potential green energy sources and work to becoming carbon neutral within five years.

As part of the initiative, Sophie O'Callaghan, who has a first class honours degree in environmental science from Exeter University, will take part in a three-year tenure to reduce energy usage by 20 per cent throughout the group.

Managing director Josh Dutfield said: "We are passionate about the environment and believe achieving a carbon neutral status would be the next milestone. There is no temporary fix to sustainability and I am sure that Sophie will help us to make solid steps in the right direction.