Leeds comms specialist bolsters net zero ambitions

A Leeds headquartered communication specialist and United Nations’ named climate leader has bolstered its bold net zero ambitions with a duo of announcements.

Bailie Group are celebrating the accomplishment of the Planet Mark sustainability accreditation, as well as appointing sustainability lead Katie McShera. The development follows a pledge by the Bailie Group to reach net zero by 2050, and to halve emissions by 2030.

Philip Walter, chief operating officer, said: “As a business we’re passionate about making a positive difference. In becoming Planet Mark certified, we’ve put our heads above the parapet, making some firm environmental and social commitments and ensuring that we’re accountable for seeing those through — an element that was particularly important to us.”

Katie McShera commented: “Initially, my role involves supporting each of the companies to co-ordinate their sustainability efforts, providing support and advice as we drive our carbon reduction efforts during 2022. I’ll be making sure that our progress — whether that’s in terms of emissions or the delivery of social value — is tracked, so that we continuously improve.

“The scope to make improvements is really exciting, and the fact that we’re working on such a valuable cause — and aiming to make a really tangible difference both to people and the planet — makes every day rewarding.”

Environmentally conscious initiatives introduced by the Group over the past 12 months include installing LED lights with PIR sensors throughout the whole of the organisation’s recently refurbished Riverside House HQ at Canal Wharf Leeds; replacing gas boilers with air source heating and providing all staff with reusable water bottles and coffee mugs to negate the use of disposables.

In addition to a cycle to work scheme, staff are provided with season ticket loans for public transport, plus all diesel vehicles are being progressively removed from Bailie Group’s fleet and electric vehicle charging points installed.

The business’ bold ambitions recently saw Bailie Group’s CEO, Fergus Bailie and COO, Philip Walter visit Downing Street to meet Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, and Business and Energy Secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng, as part of a select group of small and micro companies from across the UK.

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