Environment
Operational impact
The environmental impact of our operations may be small comparative to some other sectors but we recognise the importance of continually reducing it.
As a result, we have set targets to reduce our emissions and consumption. Between 2006-8 we will:
- Reduce CO2 emissions from energy consumption by 10% per full-time employee (FTE).
- Reduce CO2 emissions from air travel by 10% per FTE.
- Reduce paper consumption by 20% per FTE.
To help deliver our targets and monitor our overall impacts on the environment, we have undertaken a comprehensive review and update of our Global Environmental Management System (GEMS), modelled broadly on ISO 14001, the international environment management standard. GEMS aims to deliver:
- Consistent environmental policy commitments and international environmental standards;
- A framework for setting and reviewing environmental targets consistent with environmental, cultural, political and regulatory circumstances or requirements; and
- Accurate and consistent data on our environmental performance, enabling us to set targets and track progress.
Offices report environmental data and compliance status annually. In 2007, the number of GEMS buildings reporting environmental data increased from 43 to 52 covering 38,850 employees. The increase in employees and buildings covered resulted in an absolute increase in energy consumption of six per cent. However, through energy audits and efficiency programmes, total energy consumption per unit area has decreased by 11 per cent. This year, a significant campaign has been put in place to engage employees and reduce environmental impacts. All GEMS offices have been developing energy management plans to meet the emissions and consumption targets stated above.
Quick facts
- USD 10 billion to finance renewable energy
- Greatest Race on Earth: Race for a Living Planet environment challenge launched