GKR are one of just over 3500 companies globally to have their Net Zero target and measures validated by the Science Based Target initiative!
Our targets have been submitted to the Pledge to Net Zero, helping us to create a clearly defined path to reduce emissions that are aligned to the Paris 1.5c agreement. Science-based targets provide a clearly defined pathway to reduce our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, helping prevent the worst impacts of climate change and future-proof business growth.
We are committed to reducing scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 42% by 2030 and to measure and reduce our scope 3 emissions. We commit to reduce all scope emissions by 90% by 2045.
GKR Scaffolding Ltd are committed to minimising their impact on the environment through continual investment in their Sustainability Programme. We have partnered with EQUANS to develop a Zero Carbon Roadmap;
· Purchased 100% green electricity through Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO).
· Introduction of Recyclable Scaffold Sheeting option to clients saving emissions by avoiding landfill.
· Introduction of GKR Recyclable Work wear with manufacturer using 65% GRS Recycled Polyester sourcing plastic from seas, rivers and landfill.
· Scope 1: HVO fuel: Converting from diesel to a low carbon alternative. This has resulted in a 91% reduction in Scope 1 emissions compared to the Benchmark period ending Dec 2020. (Measure period 1st June 2021 to 31st May 2022)
· ISO 500001: internationally recognised standard that provides a practical way to improve energy efficiency through the development of an energy management system (EnMs).
· Procurement of lower thickness steel scaffold tubes (~18% lighter) therefore contributing to significant Scope 3 emission savings. Furthermore, we have procured re-used steel tubes, helping to eliminate emissions related to extraction of additional raw materials.
We discovered that our emissions were mainly generated by purchased goods and services and capital goods. This is due to our use of necessary vital goods such as steel scaffold tubes and boards. Due to the weight of these products, these create the most significant emission hotspots.
Looking at the scaffolding industry as a whole, their scope 3 emissions are dominated by the use of steel which is of course one of the main materials used in the business and industry as a whole. The manufacturing of steel accounts for ~11% of total global tCO2e emissions, therefore it is clear that scaffolding organisations can make an impact on this through a more sustainable use of the product. This is something that GKR have already implemented by using both thinner and recycled steel tubes, making significant reductions on their scope 3 emissions.
Moving forward, we will continue to measure our emissions annually with assistance from our contracted partners at Equans. GKR will also be encouraging our suppliers to measure their own emissions by educating and assisting them and so they can set reduction targets. This will help us to achieve Net Zero by 2045.
