Garland UK is taking bold steps toward transparency and accountability in its sustainability journey with the release of its first Sustainability Annual Report, covering progress in 2023. As a 100% employee-owned company, Garland remains committed to environmental responsibility, resource efficiency, and empowering people, all while working toward the ultimate goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050. Guided by three pillars, Carbon, Resource Efficiency & Waste, and People—this report highlights significant achievements, innovative strategies, and a clear roadmap for the future.
General Manager, Mark Fisher, sets the tone with a powerful message:
“This is more than just reducing our carbon footprint; it’s about making every decision purposeful and ensuring we leave a lasting positive impact.”
This commitment is evident in every aspect of Garland’s operations, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to promoting a circular economy and supporting its employees.
Garland UK’s approach to carbon reduction reflects the urgency of the global climate crisis. In 2023, the company recorded total emissions of 100,831 tCO2e, with the majority arising from its supply chain. The breakdown highlights Scope 1 (direct emissions) at 59 tCO2e, Scope 2 (indirect emissions from electricity) at 5 tCO2e, and Scope 3 (value chain emissions) at 100,768 tCO2e. These figures underscore the importance of tackling emissions across the entire supply chain.
Our targets have also evolved. While we remain committed to our 2032 near-term goals, we have set an ambitious aim to achieve net zero carbon by 2050. However, we are currently in the planning phase to carefully assess and ensure that these targets are both realistic and achievable. This measured approach allows us to build a solid foundation for success, aligning with the latest ISO guidelines, SBTi criteria, and the UK Government’s objectives while maintaining transparency throughout our sustainability journey.
Looking ahead, the company is validating science-based targets through the SBTi and implementing comprehensive reduction strategies for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, with an annual Carbon Reduction Plan ensuring continued transparency.
Garland UK embraces the principles of a circular economy, achieving a milestone of zero waste to landfill at its head office in 2023. This has been accomplished through innovative waste management practices, including the adoption of Grundon’s Energy from Waste scheme, which converts non-recyclable materials into energy. Garland has also increased the use of recycled materials in packaging, such as introducing polypropylene strapping made entirely from recycled content.
The company’s efforts to reduce waste extend to its projects, as demonstrated in a case study where a roofing project saved 30 tonnes of material from landfill and reduced costs by £98,000 for a local school. By focusing on resource efficiency, Garland not only minimises environmental impact but also delivers cost-effective solutions for its customers.
Future plans include defining “avoidable waste” and prioritising waste prevention over recovery methods, further reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Garland UK understands that sustainability is a collective effort, and its employees and supply chain play a critical role. In 2023, the company provided extensive training on sustainability and diversity topics to its employees and over 1,000 participants on wider building envelope CPD topics such as ‘Cutting Carbon through Sustainable Roofing Design’ and ‘Avoiding Common Roofing Defects’. Employee well-being is also a priority, with the introduction of health benefits such as BUPA coverage and team-building initiatives that foster collaboration and engagement.
To drive change beyond the organisation, Garland engages its suppliers with questionnaires on sustainability practices, encouraging alignment with its environmental goals. While response rates are lower than expected, this initiative marks the beginning of a more collaborative approach to supply chain sustainability.
Garland UK’s 2023 Sustainability Annual Report is a testament to its commitment to transparency and progress. By setting clear targets and sharing its journey, the company builds trust with customers and leads the way toward a more sustainable future. With an ethos of “always do the right thing,” Garland prioritises actions that benefit people, the planet, and its partners.
