As part of our move to a more sustainable, socially responsible business, UPP are proud to announce our commitment to achieve transparent net zero emissions, by committing to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Net-Zero Standard.
The Net-Zero Standard is the world’s first and leading framework for corporate net-zero target setting in line with climate science and provides a common, robust, and science-based understanding of net-zero on an independently assured basis.
Jason Clarke, Head of Energy and Environment, explained the thinking behind the commitment:
“Clear measurement and an evidence-based model is essential to the success of any environmental strategy. That’s why at UPP we have taken a very considered and externally validated approach. Science-based targets will enable us to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions in order to prevent the worst effects of climate change and give us tangible metrics by which our success can be measured.”
He continued,
“Our environmental strategy takes a broad, holistic approach. As well as carbon reduction, we have ambitious and innovative plans in place covering issues such as waste and water management as well as biodiversity. Our SBTi commitment is a clear demonstration of the passion at UPP about these plans which is great because we know we need everyone to be involved to succeed.”
Elaine Hewitt, CEO at UPP, commented:
“UPP has a strong focus on environmental awareness and action, driven not just by our own ambition but by the concerns and priorities of our students and our university partners. We were the first organisation in the UK to deliver Passivhaus halls in the student accommodation sector, whilst on campus we have pioneered everything from solar panels to smart meters to help reduce our carbon footprint.
“I am proud that we have taken this formal step to be accountable on our Net Zero journey which is underpinned by listening, as we have, to the concerns of students to make a real commitment to sustainability.”
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a global initiative publicly declaring, setting, and implementing scientifically based greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets in order to reach the Paris Agreement target of keeping the global temperature increase to 1.5°C. For more information please visit: https://sciencebasedtargets.org/
