In June 2022, Marlborough Highways made an ambitious pledge to become Carbon Neutral. More than a year on, the company has made significant strides by improving it’s recycling efforts, minimising its own CO2 emissions, and working with suppliers and clients to reduce the carbon footprint resulting from third parties.
Early last year Marlborough established a dedicated sustainability department in line with the company’s newly formed carbon reduction strategy. Led by Head of Performance, Sustainability and Social Value, Nick Reading, and supported by Environment and Sustainability Officer, Fiona Cummings, the team is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and is committed to the Waste Hierarchy of Prevent, Reduce, Re-use, Recycle and Recover.
The newly formed department has been working to optimise sustainable practices relating to Biodiversity, Supply Chain, Materials, Waste, Energy, Transport and Plant. They have prioritised the use of local suppliers which offer low-carbon solutions, and where it has not been possible to eliminate emissions entirely, they have invested in carbon off-setting schemes, including in developing countries. This includes supporting an overseas Solar Energy power station, and as of August 2023, providing funds for the Arca Hydroelectricity Power Plant, which delivers clean and reliable energy to people and businesses in Turkey.
With significant investment made, Marlborough’s Transport and Plant team has already expanded the company’s fleet of electric vehicles and machinery. Furthermore, the roll out of solar panels at Marlborough’s head office in Chelmsford, and EV charging points at the company’s four main sites, has seen a significant reduction in the businesses’ energy consumption. And Marlborough’s switch to 100% renewable utility tariffs, is contributing to the organisation’s ongoing shift away from fossil fuels.
In 2024 Marlborough will complete its companywide EV infrastructure programme and will expand its use of solar power, including at its London, Southend-on-Sea, and Brentwood sites. The company will also start to transition its hand tools to sustainable alternatives. Then, by the end of 2025, Marlborough’s sustainability team aims to have 25% of its small vehicles as electric, with 10% of its work site electricity generated from green sources.
Nick Reading, Head of Performance, Sustainability & Social Value, Marlborough Highways said, “We know that protecting the environment is essential for the wellbeing of the planet, our clients, and the communities we serve. We are proud of the progress we have made on our journey to carbon neutrality, and will continue to take bold steps. Over the next two years, we will embrace new technology, forge new partnerships with like-minded organisations, and invest in innovative products and services to achieve our ambitious goals.”