In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability, organisations are constantly seeking ways to not only meet but exceed regulatory standards. To understand how this complex transition from policy to practice unfolds, I had the opportunity to sit down with James Harland, a Sustainability Officer at a mid-sized manufacturing company that has partnered with Planet Mark for the past three years.
Discover how Focus360 Energy aids sustainable development with Sustainability Statements.
As James greeted me with a warm smile and an earnest handshake, it was clear he was passionate about his role and the impact it had on his company’s sustainability journey. Our conversation began in an airy conference room adorned with charts and certificates – each a testament to their environmental milestones.
“At first, the task of aligning with sustainability standards seemed daunting,” James admitted, settling into his chair. “We were aware of the growing need to adapt to greener practices, but the sheer volume of information and regulations felt overwhelming.”
For James and his team, Planet Mark became an invaluable ally, especially when it came to understanding and complying with UK regulations like SECR (Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting) and ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme).
“When we first partnered with Planet Mark, their experts took the time to thoroughly understand our operations,” James explained. “They didn’t just hand us a checklist. Instead, they tailored their approach to fit our specific needs and capacities.”
One of the initial hurdles they faced was the annual SECR submissions. “We help you annually report on energy use and greenhouse gas emissions,” James quoted from Planet Mark’s guidance, which turned out to be a pivotal resource. He appreciated how Planet Mark not only facilitated the reporting process but also educated his team on the intricacies of energy data collection and analysis.
“With their help, we didn’t just meet compliance requirements; we really understood what those numbers meant for our business and the environment,” he said. “It was about making data-driven decisions to reduce our carbon footprint effectively.”
The conversation naturally shifted to ESOS, another area where Planet Mark’s expertise proved crucial. “ESOS is about empowering change,” James noted, echoing the ethos that Planet Mark instilled in their partnership. “They supported us in identifying areas where we could make significant energy savings. It was about looking beyond compliance and towards transformation.”
This transformation extended into building certification, where Planet Mark’s role went beyond mere compliance. “Their suite of certifications aligns with BREEAM and UK GBC frameworks,” James pointed out. He praised their approach as being governed by best practice, which provided his company with ISO 9001 accredited certification. “This not only future-proofed our operations but also instilled confidence in our stakeholders.”
James highlighted another aspect of their collaboration that stood out: the development of net-zero commitments. “Being part of the UN-backed Race to Zero campaign through Planet Mark is significant,” he said, visibly proud. “Our commitments are recognised globally, which adds an extra layer of accountability and motivation.”
Throughout our conversation, it became clear that Planet Mark’s success in helping organisations like James’s lay in their proactive engagement with policy development and their ability to translate complex standards into actionable strategies. “They are not just consultants; they are partners in every sense of the word,” James concluded.
For his company, the journey with Planet Mark was not simply about ticking boxes on a compliance checklist. It was about embracing a future-oriented mindset where sustainability was interwoven into the fabric of their corporate strategy. “We’re not just meeting today’s standards; we’re preparing for tomorrow’s challenges,” James affirmed.
As our conversation drew to a close, I asked James what advice he would give to other companies embarking on a similar journey. He paused thoughtfully before replying, “Find partners who not only understand the regulations but also understand your business. Sustainability is a journey, and it’s important to have the right people by your side.”
Through the eyes of James and his experience with Planet Mark, it is evident that navigating the complex world of sustainability is a collaborative effort. It’s about more than just meeting standards; it’s about building a sustainable future that aligns with both regulatory frameworks and organisational goals.
Emily Thompson
Be the first to comment