By Phil Slinger – CAB CEO
In an era where sustainability and environmental consciousness are now at the forefront of business strategies, we usually only ever hear of the very biggest carbon reduction projects and initiatives in the media. But, as an industry, the UK Aluminium in Building sector can contribute to reductions by becoming more sustainable in their operations.
Contractors and Aluminium System Houses in the UK and Ireland are all undertaking product development and innovation to pave the way for a greener future. With most integrating sustainability into every aspect of their operations to minimise the environmental impact and contribute to a greener future by lowering their CO2 emissions.
The CO2 savings these companies are making are covered in three areas known as scopes. These emission scopes were created by the GHG Protocol in 2001:
- Scope 1: Direct CO2 emissions that result from activities within a companies control. This would include onsite fuel combustion, manufacturing and process emissions, as well as company vehicles.
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions from the energy that a company uses. Although not directly in control of the emissions, by using the energy, a company is indirectly responsible for the release of CO2.
- Scope 3: All other indirect emissions from sources outside of a companies direct control. This scope covers all the emissions associated, not with the company itself, but up and down within the supply chain, for example purchased goods and services, use of sold goods, business travel, commuting, waste disposal and water consumption.
Most companies are now focussing on reviewing their ‘Scope 3’ emissions and setting strategies and partnerships to reduce CO2 within their supply chains. Aluminium systems companies, fabricators and installers will need to understand where they are on their ‘net zero journey’ and how they can innovate and integrate within their supply chains to reduce CO2 emissions. CAB’s recently launched initiative, ‘Journey to Net Zero’ is designed to help Members with their drive to ‘net zero’.
CAB Members will need to understand how to establish their carbon footprinting benchmark and provide a plan for ongoing improvement. CAB are working in partnership with a team of environmental consultants who offer a carbon accounting process that provides accurate greenhouse gas inventories and emissions reduction advice by using international standards and protocols.
Within CAB we understand the link between ‘carbon’ and ‘costs’. At this time of high inflation, our advice is aimed at cost reduction opportunities as well as carbon accounting. The goal for the progress towards net zero should be at least cost neutral for Members, however, there is a tangible marketing benefit for companies who can demonstrate reductions in CO2 emissions. The consultation process is designed for systems houses, fabricators and installers to capture their organisational carbon footprinting of today, then guide each Member with a strategy to reduce their CO2 emissions and provide the evidence through an annual ‘Greenhouse Gas Inventory’.
Key questions for Members on their journey to ‘Net Zero’ will include:
- How to set achievable targets?
- Financially reviewing each target, has investment and payback been considered?
- What monitoring will be needed to review progress towards targets?
- How do we communicate progress both inside and outside our company?
- How do we inspire our supply chain and clients to trust us on our journey?
We know that Members are already embracing renewable technologies by installing solar panels and moving to electric vehicle fleets, but there is much more that can be done, such as in waste management, packaging and recycling. Each small step, however small, takes a company closer to net zero. Ultimately these credentials will be highly valued by Members customers who will also be on the same route looking to their supply chain companies keeping carbon emissions as low as possible.
Should you wish to learn more about the use of aluminium, please contact CAB directly, or why not consider joining the Association and be recognised as being involved in supporting your Industry and helping to shape its future. More information on our website at c-a-b.org.uk
