Our tagline, ‘Quality for Generations’, simultaneously encompasses our company history and conveys a promise to future generations that we will continue to provide the same level of unparalleled service. We are aware that this promise relies directly and indirectly on the preservation of our planet’s natural resources. So, we have approached our sustainability journey with the same level of meticulous care that we bring to all our projects. Now, we are proud to publicly launch our Journey to Net Zero.
Partnering with carbon accounting engine, Normative, we have calculated our carbon emissions across scopes 1, 2 and 3. What makes this approach unique is that many companies only consider their scopes 1 & 2 emissions when attempting to reach net zero emissions. In fact, Normative estimate that 91% of businesses don’t measure their emissions fully. To give you an indication of scale, scope 3 accounts for 97% of our business’s total emissions, and this proportion isn’t uncommon.
Calculating Emissions and Setting Realistic Goals:
We believe in transparency and accountability when it comes to our environmental impact. Collaborating with Normative has allowed us to gain a comprehensive understanding of our carbon emissions. By analysing the three scopes of emissions, namely scope 1 (direct emissions), scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased electricity, heat etc.), and scope 3 (indirect emissions from the supply chain), we are equipped with accurate data to establish achievable and informed targets.
Working Toward a Sustainable Future:
Our Journey to Net Zero initiative feeds into our core value of Protecting the Planet in which we continually review our processes and seek improvement wherever possible. By striving for net zero emissions, we are aligning our operations with the global objective of limiting climate change to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
The Path to Net Zero:
Embracing sustainability requires a multifaceted approach. Across the Group, we are actively implementing several key strategies to achieve our net zero target. These include the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce scope 1 and scope 2 emissions. Additionally, the company is exploring innovative solutions to mitigate scope 3 emissions by collaborating with suppliers, subcontractors, and stakeholders throughout the value chain. This holistic approach ensures that sustainability is prioritised at every level of operation.
Beyond Carbon Neutrality:
While achieving Net Zero carbon emissions is a significant milestone, the Journey to Net Zero initiative goes beyond carbon neutrality. We understand the importance of addressing other environmental concerns, such as water consumption, waste management, and biodiversity preservation. By integrating these considerations into our overall sustainability strategy, we are striving to embed sustainability-focused decision-making. For example, have you seen our ‘Air Bee and Bee’ insect hotels at our King’s Cross headquarters?
Conclusion:
With the launch of our Journey to Net Zero initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the planet. Collaborating with Normative to calculate our emissions and establish realistic goals, we have embarked on a transformative path towards a more sustainable future. As the construction industry faces increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact, we set a precedent by actively pursuing net zero carbon emissions across all three scopes. Through the adoption of renewable energy, collaboration with stakeholders, and holistic sustainability strategies, we are determined to contribute to a greener world.
Read our Journey to Net Zero Roadmap, here.
