This year, we want to help you learn more about workplace sustainability by sharing actionable hints and tips on how you can reduce workplace emissions. So, we’re launching the ‘Steps towards a sustainable workplace’ series with our Sustainability Director, Jamie Richardson, who will be sharing key insights, to support those on their own workplace sustainability journey. So now, we’ll hand it over to Jamie.

Before we dive into those hints, tips and tricks, I wanted to break down what we really mean when we talk about ‘workplace emissions’, the different types of emissions we’re working with and why it’s so important that we’re taking steps to reduce them. 

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Why reducing workplace emissions should be a priority 

Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to have’—it’s a business imperative. From regulatory pressures to employee expectations, reducing workplace emissions is the key to future organisational prosperity. 

A growing number of organisations now have a sustainability strategy in place. But why is it so important for businesses to start taking real action?

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Doing your part for the planet

Every business has a carbon footprint. Whether it’s energy use, waste, or supply chain emissions, cutting emissions helps protect the environment and mitigate climate change.

From small changes like energy-efficient lighting to larger initiatives like sustainable office design, every action counts.

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Brand, reputation and ethical business practices

Sustainability isn’t just about compliance—it’s about credibility. Businesses that actively reduce their emissions stand out as ethical, forward-thinking, and responsible. Clients, investors, and employees are paying attention.

A strong sustainability strategy can enhance your brand, attract and retain top talent, and even increase market share.

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Delivering efficiencies and cost savings 

Lowering emissions doesn’t just benefit the environment, it makes business sense. Energy-efficient workplaces reduce utility costs, smart waste management cuts expenses, and streamlined operations improve overall efficiency. The result? A more sustainable business that’s also more profitable.

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Employee engagement: building a culture of sustainability 

Employees want to work for companies that align with their values. A commitment to sustainability can foster a sense of purpose, improve morale, and enhance engagement. 

From green commuting schemes to office-wide sustainability initiatives, embedding sustainability into workplace culture strengthens both business and team dynamics. A strong sustainability culture within an organisation can also increase engagement, which in turn will accelerate your progress in achieving your goals.

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Getting your head around scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions 

Understanding emissions is the first step to reducing them. Workplace emissions are divided into scopes 1, 2, and 3.

But what do these scopes actually refer to? 

• Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from company-owned sources, like office gas-fired heating or fleet vehicles.
• Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions from purchased energy, such as electricity used in your buildings.‍
• Scope 3 emissions are everything else—supplier activities, employee commuting, business travel, waste in operations and more.

Scope 3 emissions are often the highest part of a company's carbon footprint and hardest to track, but can make the biggest impact when reduced.

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Taking action

Reducing workplace emissions isn’t about making grand gestures, it’s about making consistent, impactful changes. Whether it’s rethinking your office energy use, choosing sustainable suppliers, or engaging employees in green initiatives, every step brings us closer to a more sustainable future.

Throughout the rest of this Taking Steps Towards Sustainability Series, we’ll explore how you can begin to do just that.

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Let's talk sustainability

If you'd to discuss your workplace sustainability strategy with one of our experts, get in touch with us here.