In 2008, we published our intention to establish and report the carbon footprint of our supply chain in the 2010 CSR Report. In 2009, we will require our key suppliers to report upon their energy management plans including their carbon emissions, reduction targets and achievements to date.
In November 2008, we invited all our key suppliers to attend a Carbon Masterclass to communicate our energy strategy, outline our work to date and explain our reporting requirements. We involved Cable & Wireless, The Mayor of London’s Green Procurement team, Bureau Veritas and the Carbon Disclosure project as experts on the day.
A ‘carbon questionnaire’, based upon the Carbon Disclosure Project reporting model, will be used to record this information. The Masterclass was well supported and the collection of carbon data has already commenced.
Our aim is to identify those suppliers who emit a disproportionate amount of carbon compared to our expenditure and to start working with them to reduce their environmental impact.
We recognise our suppliers’ CSR achievements through the Supplier Making A Difference Awards. In 2008, we had a record number of entries which we shortlisted to five finalists. The judging panel, including representation from Business in the Community (BITC), had the difficult task of selecting the winner and runners-up.
We were delighted to make the 2008 Award to Ansa, who provide drainage and repair services for our policyholders. Ansa introduced an environmental impact improvement programme, which identified and monitored energy usage and waste volumes, and set targets for improvement.
You can also view the transcript of the video in html.