Wednesday 16 September 2020

Arup commits to building a net zero business by 2030

Arup has announced a commitment to deliver net zero emissions across its global operations by 2030.

The commitment, which covers the energy used in offices to goods and services purchased, has been unveiled alongside an interim goal of reducing its scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30% by 2025, working from a 2018 baseline.

The goal has been validated by the Science Based Target initiative.

Arup has pledged to buy Gold Standard-certified offsets for all domestic and international flights and to compensate for other difficult-to-remove emissions with offsets from 2030 - it is also placing a carbon levy of $40 (£31) per tonne on flights taken by employees to help drive more sustainable behaviors and lifestyles.

Jo da Silva, Arup Global Sustainable Development Leader, said: “While the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic it is crucial that we do not take our eye off the ball when it comes to reducing emissions and managing the approaching risks because of climate change.

"We have taken these steps to consolidate our efforts to reduce the impact of our operations around the world. But the greatest difference we can make is through the advice and solutions we offer our clients and communities – from helping city leaders take practical steps to meet the Paris Agreement, to working with property developers to understand how digital technology can reduce their resource consumption.”