4 Examples of Successful Carbon Reduction Plans
While most organisations strive to be more sustainable, some businesses are ahead of the curve when it comes to reducing carbon emissions. We'll share examples of businesses that have already launched successful carbon reduction plans and the steps they took to implement them.
The Importance of Carbon Reduction Plans for Businesses
Implementing carbon reduction plans are essential for businesses aiming to enhance their environmental impact and long-term sustainability. By reducing carbon emissions, companies can lower operational costs, avoid emissions-based fines, and stay compliant with regulatory standards.
Incorporating sustainable practices into your business model not only improves corporate social responsibility (CSR) but also strengthens your brand reputation. Today’s eco-conscious investors and clients actively seek out businesses that prioritise sustainability and carbon footprint reduction. By adopting carbon reduction strategies, businesses can become a more attractive option in the marketplace, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally responsible suppliers.
Taking steps toward carbon reduction boosts your environmental credentials and supports long-term profitability. Whether it's improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, or investing in renewable resources, the benefits of a carbon reduction plan extend beyond compliance—they can be a major driver of business success.
Case Study 1: Tech industry carbon reduction story: Apple
Tech giant Apple has always made headlines for its technological innovation, but it also stands out for sustainability reasons. The software and hardware company has set a carbon reduction target to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Renewable energy adoption
Apple has adopted renewable energy by investing in a large photovoltaic (PV) project based in China. The renewable energy plant uses cutting-edge solar technology, powering Apple's operations in China. Further afield, Apple pledges to source 100% of materials from a sustainable supply chain.
Energy efficiency measures
Considering it's a cutting-edge tech giant, it's probably not surprising that Apple has invested in energy-efficient technologies. To power its everyday operations, Apple utilises more energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, as well as efficient heating, air conditioning and ventilation.
Carbon offsets initiatives
Apple has turned its attention to carbon offsetting by partnering with projects and schemes that offset carbon emissions via existing technologies. The carbon-offsetting projects Apple invests in include reforestation, mangrove protection and other nature-based solutions.
Case Study 2: Industrial sustainability: Manufacturing company's emission reduction: Guylian
Chocolate manufacturer Guylian has taken strides to produce its range of praline chocolates sustainably. It was awarded the Silver CO2 Neutral label and has also committed to reducing its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.
Process optimisation
Guylian use 100% recyclable packaging across the board to streamline recycling manufacturing to one type of packaging. Instead of opting for a palm oil-free range or collection, the brand also decided to manufacture all products that are palm oil- and soya-free, avoiding cross-contamination and streamlining all manufacturing processes into one, optimised format.
Waste reduction
The chocolate manufacturer is now a zero food waste manufacturer, meaning its waste output during manufacturing is zero.
Adopting clean technology
Guylian has adopted green energy to power its manufacturing operations and has a focus on water reduction, meaning a large amount of its production is optimised in terms of sustainability.
Related article: What is the EU's Renewable Energy Directive?
Case Study 3: Retail Carbon Reduction: Supply Chain Emissions Reduction at Tesco
Tesco is a member of RE100, a global corporate renewable energy initiative involving businesses committed to 100% renewable energy. Tesco aims to source 100% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
Supply chain emissions reduction
Around 70% of Tesco's supply chain carbon emissions come from its agricultural supply chain - to help more fairly calculate its carbon emissions goals for this specific area of its supply chain, the supermarket giant has set a separate carbon reduction target for its agricultural supply chain. By 2030, it also aims to eradicate commodity-driven deforestation from its supply chains.
Supplier engagement
Tesco has employed a science-based carbon reduction target to help communicate its climate change efforts to its suppliers. It hopes that this evidence-based campaign will help better portray its carbon reduction goals to customers, investors and suppliers.
Distribution and transportation efficiency improvements
A large amount of the supermarket industry's energy consumption is a result of cooling and refrigeration of its products - this includes in-store and during transportation. Tesco has invested £700 million in refrigeration and energy efficiency improvements, resulting in 41% per square foot emission reductions from distribution centres and stores.
Case Study 4: Financial industry carbon reduction: green building and energy efficiency initiatives: Legal & General
Legal & General has put sustainability at the heart of its head office in Cardiff, with the development attaining BREEAM Outstanding. It has also had a positive social impact by creating new homes, jobs and entertainment in the surrounding area.
Implementing green building standards
The Cardiff Interchange development office Calon - Welsh for 'heart' - was awarded the Best Corporate Workplace at the South Wales Regional BCO Awards for its outstanding commitment to sustainable design, including the integration of air quality monitoring and on-site renewable energy generation.
Enhancing energy efficiency in offices
Developed with CAST Interiors, the building design utilised interior fit-out experts and techniques, including sustainable materials, the use of natural lighting and the installation of interior green walls to achieve its net zero carbon status.
Incorporating a carbon reduction plan is vital for businesses across industries, as demonstrated by leading companies like Apple, Guylian, Tesco, and Legal & General. By focusing on reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and adopting renewable energy, businesses can lower operational costs, avoid fines, and meet environmental compliance standards. Additionally, prioritizing sustainability strengthens corporate social responsibility (CSR) and boosts brand reputation, making your company more attractive to investors and clients who seek eco-friendly partners.
Implementing carbon reduction strategies not only benefits the planet but also drives long-term business success and profitability.
We can help you calculate your carbon footprint and implement an informed carbon reduction plan.
Written by:
Montel Team
