Carbon Reduction Plan for Gemstone
Introduction
Gemstone is a web and mobile app development company based in Hertfordshire, is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2030, aligning with the UK Government's Climate Change Act. As a remote-first organization without a permanent office, our unique operational model presents both challenges and opportunities in reducing our carbon footprint. This plan outlines our current carbon footprint, identifies key areas for emission reduction, and sets forth our strategy to achieve these reductions in line with the UK's environmental reporting guidelines and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
Current Carbon Footprint
Given our remote operational model, our primary carbon emissions are categorized under Scope 3 emissions, including business travel, employee commuting, upstream transportation and distribution of equipment, and waste generated in operations. As a digital-first company, our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions are negligible; however, we recognize the significance of our indirect Scope 3 emissions and are committed to their rigorous assessment and reduction.
Scope 3 Emissions Assessment
Total Annual Emissions - 17.71 Tonnes CO2e
Business Travel and Employee Commuting
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- Based on the aggregate of business-related travel and daily commuting.
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- Reduction Strategy: Implement a remote-first policy, minimizing the need for business travel and commuting. Encourage the use of public transportation and provide incentives for using low-emission transportation methods.
Upstream Transportation and Distribution
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- Primarily from the procurement of office equipment and resources.
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- Reduction Strategy: Optimize supply chains, prioritize digital solutions over physical goods, and collaborate with suppliers committed to sustainable practices.
Waste Generated in Operations
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- From the disposal and treatment of operational waste.
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- Reduction Strategy: Promote a paperless environment, encourage recycling, and reduce electronic waste through responsible disposal and recycling programs.
Commitment to Net Zero by 2050
Gemstone IT Services pledges to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 through continuous improvement and innovative practices that reduce our environmental impact. This commitment is in alignment with the UK Government's objectives and the global effort to combat climate change.
Reporting and Transparency
We will update our Carbon Reduction Plan annually, reflecting our progress and adapting our strategies to meet our Net Zero goal. Our plan will be made available on our website, providing transparency and accountability. We encourage feedback and engagement from our stakeholders to improve our environmental performance.
Approval and Sign-off
This Carbon Reduction Plan has been approved by our board of directors, demonstrating our organizational commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050.
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- Approval Date: 6th January 2024
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- Director's Name: Jamie Maxwell
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- Position: Director
Gemstone IT Services is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in the decarbonisation of the UK and the wider global community by implementing sustainable practices, fostering innovation, and leading by example in the digital services sector.