Datagraphic has announced that it is aiming for its operations to be net zero in terms of emissions by 2040. The company, which has timed the announcement to coincide with the COP26 conference taking place in Glasgow, produces multichannel outbound communications and processes inbound mail for public and private sector clients. 

Midlands-based Datagraphic, which has two sites in Rugby and Chesterfield, stressed that its sustainability aims weren’t a reaction to the conference but have actually been many years in the making. Commercial manager and sustainability leader Peter Wells explained, ‘All eyes have been on the COP26 conference and the resulting commitments made by global leaders. But, to get climate change under control, governments will need monumental support from organisations and individuals.

‘We all need to reduce our carbon emissions. Only by doing this will we hit the net zero target countries around the world are working to achieve. At Datagraphic, we know we can’t stop climate change alone, but we’re committed to doing our bit and leading the way.

‘Over the last decade, we’ve made continuous environmental and energy management improvements to our operations. We’ve made sure what we do is measurable and accountable, achieving certifications to the Environmental Management System ISO 14001 and the Energy Management System ISO 50001. We’ve put in place wide-ranging initiatives on green travel, recycling and the use of sustainable materials. And been planting trees and offsetting our carbon footprint by purchasing carbon credits. But all this is only the start.

‘We’re beginning to measure our annual carbon emissions using the Science-based Green House Gas (GHG) Protocol for Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. We intend to work closely with supply chain partners to measure emissions and find effective solutions for reducing the impact of CO2 emissions. We must work collaboratively. We need to raise awareness, provide and share best practices, and promote relevant training and research to accelerate the decarbonisation of our manufacturing activities.

‘I feel knowledge sharing is of particular importance. A powerful success story can inspire others to the significance and impact of sustainable practices. We are re-engineering our processes and supply chain to remove all carbon emissions from our operations ultimately.’

In terms of how, specifically, Datagraphic will achieve its aims, Mr Wells outlined, ‘Our target is to be net zero with Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035. Scope 3 emissions by 2040 and carbon-negative after that. To stay on track with this objective and make sure there’s measurement and transparency in what we’re doing, we’re working with a leading environmental consultant, Pro Enviro.

‘Saying you’re a sustainable organisation isn’t enough. Quite rightly, clients expect evidence today that operations deliver on environmental promises. Working with Pro Enviro will help us measure our strategy and communicate progress openly with our stakeholders.

‘We know it’s going to need a team effort. In the coming weeks, months and years, we’ll be continuing our work with suppliers, employees, clients and partners to make net zero by 2040 a reality. I know the team here is committed to working sustainably. We look forward to sharing success stories to inspire others on the importance and impact of sustainable practices. We’re ready to take the next step.’