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Month: June 2024

Since the launch of the Supply Chain Sustainability School’s Diversity Tool in 2021, over 537 organisations have registered to report their organisation’s employee diversity data, capturing data on over 526,000 employees. This is the largest UK dataset on diversity metrics available in the sector.

The standardised approach to collecting data via the Diversity Tool’s survey simplifies the reporting process and enables annual benchmarks to be set, empowering Partners with powerful and expert insights to establish their ESG priorities and invest their resources where they will have the most impact. These benchmarks give Partners an accurate picture of their supply chains’ diversity performance in comparison to the industry, their own employees and against ONS (UK census data).

Take a look at last year’s Diversity Survey Benchmarking Report 2023 to understand the data collected and analysed through this approach, which is discussed at our annual benchmarking event. The Diversity Survey will continue to be free to use and report for all suppliers, however, Partners will now have the opportunity to access the Diversity Tool supplier dashboards as a Level 2 Partner or above.

What does this mean for me?

  • If you’re a Level 1 Partner, nothing changes! Speak to your Account Manager if you’re interested in gaining access to the Diversity Tool and would like to upgrade your Partner Level.
  • If you’re a Level 2 or 3 Partner, you will now have the option to use either the Carbon Calculator (scope 3 reporting tool) or Diversity Tool (supply chain diversity data reporting)*. Speak to your Account Manager to discuss this option.
  • If you’re a Level 4 Partner, your fee includes both the Carbon Calculator (scope 3 reporting tool) and Diversity Tool (supply chain diversity data reporting).

*Please note that Partners can engage in one of these benefits, and once engagement has started on the chosen Tool, they will not be able switch benefits.

Today marks a significant milestone with the launch of the Construction Industry Federation’s (CIF) Carbon Calculator, powered by the Sustainability Tool and developed in collaboration with the Supply Chain Sustainability School. This innovative tool aims to streamline and standardise carbon accounting for businesses across Ireland.

Impending EU regulations and increasing demands from clients and authorities are putting pressure on Irish organisations to enhance transparency in their carbon accounting practices. Measuring carbon emissions poses a challenge for businesses of all sizes, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that often lack the resources or expertise in carbon accounting.

PJ Ryan, Head of Sustainability in the Construction Industry Federation said: “The new CIF carbon calculator is designed to help SMEs measure their carbon footprint efficiently, using straightforward metrics like fuel usage, electricity, waste, and water consumption. It is a free, fully supported tool available to the entire industry, featuring a help desk and webinars to facilitate understanding and use.

“For Tier 1 contractors, the calculator assists in managing scope 3 emissions, particularly in the supply chain, where 80% of emissions typically occur. The tool allows comprehensive tracking of supplier and subcontractor data, promoting a standardized approach across the industry to achieve sustainability goals collaboratively.”

Dr. James Cadman, Head of Consultancy and Climate at Action Sustainability, stated, “Calculating carbon impacts using spreadsheets is not only resource-intensive but is more open to inaccurate results. This can affect transparent reporting but also, more importantly, hinder identifying opportunities for improvements – the real reason why we collect carbon data. Add to this the complexities of scope 3 emissions and have you a situation ripe for greater efficiency.

“The CIF carbon calculator addresses these challenges by providing a reliable platform that simplifies the entire process of calculating and reporting carbon emissions. This tool not only enhances accuracy but also ensures that businesses of all sizes can effectively and consistently measure their climate impact, as well as supporting them with meeting their reporting requirements.”

The CIF Carbon Calculator offers a comprehensive, user-friendly platform that allows businesses to independently manage and report their carbon emissions, without requiring prior knowledge or expertise in carbon accounting. The tool also enables organisations to apportion emissions to clients based on their turnover percentage, fostering greater transparency and collaboration.

The Tool is available for free to any organisation, providing them with the capability to measure their own emissions, align with global sustainability goals, strengthen client relationships, and enhance their competitiveness in tender processes. Access it here.

For organisations interested in collecting Scope 3 emissions with the CIF Carbon Calculator, please contact the Sustainability Tool team here.

A groundbreaking report, “Responsible Sourcing of HVO – A Comprehensive Guide,” has been released, aiming to accelerate the global transition towards sustainable energy. Developed by Action Sustainability for the Supply Chain Sustainability School, this report is a vital resource for organisations committed to environmentally responsible practices in the procurement of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

As many organisations pursue net zero targets, the role of fuels and power is crucial. HVO has emerged as a viable alternative to fossil diesel, a shift endorsed by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) in its zero diesel sites route map. However, the sustainability benefits of HVO are complex and not always straightforward.

In response to these complexities, twelve Supply Chain Sustainability School Partners have co-funded this guidance to elucidate the sustainability challenges associated with HVO.

Ben Stone, Head of Environmental Sustainability at Kier Group, said: “The construction industry has a key role in supporting the UK’s transition to a lower carbon economy. This report and its recommendations shine a light on the role HVO can play, and where it can be utilised to provide a low-carbon solution. Working collaboratively with the Supply Chain Sustainability School and its Partners, we were pleased to advise on the research and development of the Responsible Sourcing of HVO report to provide clear and much-needed guidance to support the industry with procuring this fuel responsibly.”

Jo Potts, Sustainability Director, Responsible Sourcing & Social Impact at Balfour Beatty said: “At Balfour Beatty, we take pride in acting responsibly, considering the full environmental, social and economic implications of our actions to ensure that we’re not solving one challenge whilst creating another. It’s refreshing to see this guide, which we are pleased to have contributed to, takes a holistic approach and moves away from carbon tunnel-vision, clearly setting out the pros, the cons and most critically, the unknowns of HVO fuels.”

The guidance covers the entire lifecycle of HVO – from raw material sourcing, processing, and shipping to final use. It provides strategies for managing and mitigating potential sustainability risks and impacts within the HVO supply chain.

Key highlights of the report include:

  • Examination of the sustainability benefits and impacts of biofuels, with a focus on HVO.
  • Overview of HVO availability and market size.
  • Analysis of potential market distortions affecting HVO.
  • Recommendations for risk mitigation mechanisms.

The guide provides actionable recommendations to help organisations make informed decisions, manage risks, and confidently mitigate the sustainability impacts of using and procuring HVO.

Dr. James Cadman, Head of Consultancy and Climate at Action Sustainability, stated: “When procuring HVO, it is essential to conduct due diligence to source sustainably from reputable suppliers, using assurance schemes like the UK’s Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS). This approach is crucial for transitioning away from fossil fuels, protecting the planet, and achieving net zero targets responsibly.”

By promoting sustainable procurement practices, this report marks a new era of conscientious decision-making in the energy sector. It empowers organisations to uphold environmental stewardship without compromising operational efficiency or profitability.

Access the full report here.

If you’re interested in carbon and energy consultancy support, book a complimentary discovery call with report author, Dr James Cadman.

The Supply Chain Sustainability School is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Spencer to its Board of Directors.  

Andrew Spencer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the School’s mission of advancing sustainability within the built environment through collaboration and knowledge sharing. As the Group Supply Chain & Procurement Director at Galliford Try, a prominent UK construction group and key Partner of the School, Spencer operates at the forefront of the industry, overseeing procurement and supply chain professionals across the organisation and shaping strategic approaches to supply chain management. 

Andrew Spencer, Group Supply Chain & Procurement Director at Galliford Try

With over 25 years of experience and a distinguished Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (FCIPS), Spencer has led high-profile projects and collaborations with major UK clients, including HS2, National Highways, Crossrail, and National Grid, among others. His leadership has been recognised through multiple awards for his innovative approach to supply chain management. 

Reflecting on his appointment, Andrew commented, “I am honoured to join the Board of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. Its dedication to promoting sustainable practices resonates strongly with my professional values and how we operate within Galliford Try. I’m eager to apply my experience and network to further the School’s mission of driving positive change within the industry.” 

The Supply Chain Sustainability School empowers professionals across the built environment sector with the knowledge and tools necessary to build resilient and environmentally responsible supply chains. Andrew Spencer’s appointment to the Board of Directors underscores the School’s dedication to harnessing industry expertise to advance sustainability practices. 

“We are delighted to welcome Andrew to our Board of Directors.” said Hilary Hurrey, Head of the Supply Chain Sustainability School “His extensive experience and leadership in procurement and supply chain management will be invaluable as we continue to drive forward our mission of promoting sustainability and collaboration within the built environment.” 

For more information about the Supply Chain Sustainability School, explore the website here.