The construction company building a net zero future
Born and bred in Yorkshire, Sewell Construction delivers a host of construction projects every year for the public and private sector, from small-scale refurbs to large-scale new developments.
Contributing to a more sustainable future is a primary focus for the Oh Yes! Net Zero member – and it has set an ambitious target to become operationally net zero by 2030.
We talked to Mark Boothby, joint managing director at Sewell Construction, about the firm’s Net Zero Roadmap and some of the measures it is taking to achieve its sustainability goals.
“Our Net Zero Roadmap sets out annual carbon reduction targets based on our baseline total carbon emission figures, as well as how we’ll achieve these targets in the year ahead,” said Mark.
“Monitoring and reducing carbon outputs across construction projects requires a comprehensive and systematic approach.
“It can require close collaboration with clients to understand their net zero ambitions and jointly develop project KPIs specific to their carbon reduction needs.”
With targets agreed, the company applies carbon reduction practices to every stage and aspect of the construction process, from implementing sustainable design solutions to maximising local supply chain spend, reducing vehicle movements and switching to alternative fuel or electric-powered plant where possible.
Minimising waste is a key focus, with comprehensive waste management plans and measures in place for every project, including segregating waste materials on-site, re-using offcuts and donating waste to local recycling initiatives.
Supply chain partners play a vital part in Sewell’s carbon reduction efforts.
“Before awarding contracts we request environmental data from suppliers relating to their products and services to ensure they’re in line with the net zero targets we’re working towards,” explained Mark.
“We also support contractors in waste reduction measures by promoting circular economy principles, focusing on raw material reduction, retention, and re-use.”
Transparent reporting is crucial part of the sustainability process, with the firm providing regular reports to project stakeholders detailing emissions, energy usage, water consumption and waste management performance.
Sewell’s sustainability efforts extend well beyond construction sites to reach every part of the business. It fosters a culture of continuous improvement in relation to environmental sustainability by encouraging employees and teams to identify new ideas that will reduce emissions and rewarding those whose proposals contribute to environmental innovation.
The company also tries to embed behavioural change in its sustainability campaigns, encouraging conversations around sustainability amongst employees and with clients.
“Our commitment to sustainability isn’t something we do that stands apart from other aspects of our business,” said Mark.
“It’s a holistic approach that’s part and parcel of our operations, culture and values.
“By continuing to innovate and collaborate with all our stakeholders, we hope to set a benchmark for the construction industry that will help us to build a more sustainable future.”