Sustainability & ESG
Our Journey to Net Zero
As one of the leading MEICA providers in the UK water industry, RSE has a significant role to play in transitioning the water treatment sector towards Net Zero. RSE has committed to achieving Operational Net Zero by 2030 (Scope 1 and 2 emissions) and Net Zero by 2035 (Scope 1, 2 and 3 Emissions).
Sustainability & ESG
Operational Net Zero by 2030
Our key actions to achieve Operational Net Zero focus on reducing our reliance on fossil fuels across the business.
This will include:
- Transitioning to Low Emission Vehicles (LEVs)
- Purchasing renewable electricity tariffs
- Switching to renewable heat alternatives
RSE has made significant progress in minimising our operational emissions. This includes an investment in 360 kW of solar panels across nine locations, using hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO) across sites and fleet vehicles, and purchasing 100% renewable electricity tariffs backed by REGO certificates.
- Commitment 1 – 2030 target for direct emissions – RSE has committed to achieve operational Net Zero by 2030. This includes all direct emissions from our operations and Scope 1 and Scope 2 are both included in this target, as well as some additional areas from Scope 3 – for example business travel.
- Commitment 2 – 2035 target for indirect emissions – RSE has committed to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2035 which includes direct and indirect emissions. Scope 1, 2 and 3 will be included, as well as the embodied carbon in our supply chain.
Sustainability & ESG
Net Zero by 2035
Our Net Zero by 2035 target focuses on Scope 3 emissions. Scope 3 emissions account for all upstream and downstream emissions across our value chain including our purchased goods and services, business travel, and waste generated in operations.
To minimise our Scope 3 emissions, we must reduce product and project life cycle emissions from cradle to grave. This requires supply chain engagement to identify innovative, low carbon materials. We must also design in line with PAS2080 principles, applying the ‘Avoid, Switch, Improve’ approach.