Carbon Reduction Policy
1. Introduction
At SPROUT(ED), we are fully committed to addressing the urgent challenge of climate change. As part of our broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, reducing our carbon footprint is a key priority. This Carbon Reduction Policy outlines our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, implementing sustainable practices, and continuously improving our environmental performance in alignment with our ESG policy.
2. Objectives
Our primary objective is to achieve a 20% reduction in our carbon footprint over the next three years, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and the minimisation of emissions across all aspects of our business operations.
3. Key Commitments
– Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
We are committed to reducing energy consumption within our offices and operations by implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices. This includes using energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and heating/cooling systems. Additionally, we aim to transition fully to renewable energy sources for our energy needs, ensuring a cleaner and greener operational environment.
– Remote Working and Digital Transformation
As a predominantly remote business, we already benefit from a reduced carbon footprint by minimising travel and office-based emissions. We continue to leverage digital tools to reduce the need for commuting and international travel, cutting emissions from transport. For any in-person engagements, we will prioritise sustainable travel options, such as using public transportation or electric vehicles.
– Waste Reduction and Circular Economy
We are committed to reducing waste generated from our operations and run a completely paperless business model, ensuring that any waste produced is responsibly managed. We prioritise digital documentation and communication over printed materials. Furthermore, we strive to work with suppliers that share our sustainability goals, focusing on reusable and recyclable products and packaging.
– Sustainable Supply Chain
SPROUT(ED) actively engages with our suppliers to ensure that they adhere to environmentally friendly practices. We favour suppliers that are committed to reducing their own carbon footprints and who demonstrate sustainable business operations. This alignment ensures that we contribute to the decarbonisation of our entire supply chain.
4. Carbon Reduction Plan
Our carbon reduction plan includes the following strategies:
– Monitoring and Reporting
We will regularly monitor our energy usage, waste production, and travel emissions, setting clear metrics to measure progress toward our carbon reduction goals. This data will be publicly reported as part of our broader ESG reporting efforts.
– Employee Engagement
We will actively involve our employees in our carbon reduction initiatives through awareness campaigns, training, and opportunities to contribute ideas for further reductions in our carbon footprint.
– Sustainability Targets
We aim to improve year on year by setting ambitious carbon reduction targets and continuously reviewing and updating our strategies to remain aligned with the latest environmental best practices.
5. Progress to Date
To date, SPROUT(ED) has successfully reduced business travel by 50% through increased use of virtual meetings and remote working solutions. We have also implemented energy-saving measures within our office spaces and are in the process of transitioning to 100% renewable energy suppliers.
6. Future Plans
Looking forward, SPROUT(ED) is committed to:
– Achieving full renewable energy usage within the next 12 months.
– Exploring carbon offset initiatives to further mitigate any unavoidable emissions.
– Expanding our supplier engagement to ensure our entire supply chain is aligned with our sustainability values.
7. Conclusion
SPROUT(ED) is dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to the global effort to combat climate change. This Carbon Reduction Policy is an integral part of our ESG strategy, driving us towards a sustainable future. Our leadership team is fully committed to achieving the goals outlined in this policy and regularly reviewing and enhancing our practices to reduce our carbon footprint further.
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and aligned with our ESG commitments.
SPROUT(ED)
Date: 23rd January 2024
This policy is endorsed by our management team and reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance.
