Carbon Emission Reduction Plan

1. Introduction

Rowland Brothers recognises the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to mitigate climate change. This plan outlines actionable steps to measure, manage, and minimise our carbon footprint while aligning with global sustainability targets.

2. Objectives

  • Achieve a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2030.
  • Reduce Scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2035.
  • Transition to net-zero emissions by 2050.
  • Enhance transparency through annual reporting and third-party verification.

3. Emission Sources Analysis

  • Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned/controlled sources (e.g., company vehicles, on-site fuel combustion).
  • Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, heat, and steam.
  • Scope 3: Other indirect emissions (e.g., supply chain, business travel, employee commuting, waste disposal).

4. Reduction Strategies

4.1 Energy Efficiency Improvements:

  • Conduct energy audits annually to identify inefficiencies.
  • Upgrade to energy-efficient equipment (e.g., LED lighting, HVAC systems).
  • Implement automated systems for energy management.

4.2 Renewable Energy Transition:

  • Source 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
  • Invest in on-site renewable energy projects (e.g., solar panels).
  • Purchase Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) where direct transition is not feasible.

4.3 Sustainable Transportation:

  • Transition 50% of company vehicles to electric by 2030.
  • Incentivise low-carbon commuting options (e.g., public transport, cycling, carpooling).
  • Reduce non-essential business travel and promote virtual meetings.

4.4 Supply Chain Collaboration:

  • Engage suppliers to track and reduce their emissions.
  • Prioritise partnerships with low-carbon and circular economy suppliers.
  • Set procurement policies favouring sustainable materials and practices.

4.5 Waste Management & Circular Economy:

  • Implement zero-waste-to-landfill policies.
  • Increase recycling and composting initiatives.
  • Optimise product design for longevity and recyclability.

4.6 Carbon Offsetting (as a last resort):

  • Invest in verified carbon offset projects (e.g., reforestation, renewable energy in developing regions).
  • Use offsets to neutralise residual emissions that cannot be reduced directly.

5. Monitoring & Reporting

  • Establish a baseline year for measuring emissions.
  • Conduct annual carbon accounting using the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
  • Publish yearly sustainability reports with independent third-party verification.
  • Regularly review and adjust targets in line with scientific advancements and policy changes.

6. Governance & Accountability

  • Appoint a Sustainability Officer to oversee implementation.
  • Integrate carbon reduction goals into executive performance metrics.
  • Engage employees through training and sustainability initiatives.
  • Form a cross-functional Sustainability Committee to drive innovation and accountability.

7. Stakeholder Engagement

  • Collaborate with industry peers to share best practices.
  • Engage investors with clear, credible climate disclosures.
  • Communicate progress transparently with customers and the public.

8. Timeline & Milestones

  • 2025: 25% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
  • 2030: 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2, 100% renewable energy.
  • 2035: 30% reduction in Scope 3 emissions.
  • 2050: Achieve net-zero emissions across all scopes.

9. Conclusion

This Carbon Emission Reduction Plan reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term business resilience. By implementing these strategies, we aim to reduce our environmental impact while fostering innovation and sustainable growth.