Weston Group, which includes Weston Homes, Weston Partnerships and British Offsite, has pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions across all three scopes by 2040, 10 years ahead of the UK Government’s deadline.
The commitment covers emissions reductions, biodiversity and social value across all business operations.
The company set out a four-stage strategy in its new environmental, social and governance (ESG) statement.
It started in 2021 and runs to 2025, with actions like changing its fleet to electric vehicles, adding charging points at all parking spaces at its Takeley office, and installing solar PV arrays at both Takeley and the British Offsite Horizon factory.
Homes built in this phase are claimed to be more energy efficient due to a ‘fabric first’ construction method.
From 2026 to 2030, Weston Group will introduce renewable supplies for all new homes and site energy use.
Weston Group will also be looking further down its supply chain to better understand carbon emissions from suppliers and materials.
Between 2031 and 2035, the company plans to cut out fossil fuels in new builds and switch to lower carbon construction materials.
By 2040, the programme aims to see all sites and offices net zero, with research into new ways to lower emissions from building materials.
The ESG statement covers the company’s plans to cut carbon by using modern construction methods and more sustainable materials.
Weston Group has also adopted a policy to target brownfield sites first.
From 2024, all planning applications will need to show at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity, including features like rooftop gardens and green spaces in new developments.
On social responsibility, Weston Group said it aims to create inclusive communities for all residents.
From 2025, an enhanced community engagement strategy will be rolled out on every site to make sure local input is considered.
A post-occupation analysis process will examine how people use their homes and public spaces to help guide future projects.
Additionally, Weston Group’s trainee scheme will guarantee that at least 5% of the workforce will be made up of trainees each year.
On governance, Weston Group commits to strong business ethics and works with political figures and industry bodies to help shape housing policy.
Output at the British Offsite factory is being increased to 4,000 homes a year by 2030 using the group’s UNisystem.
By the same year, only renewable energy will be used in new homes.
The company said its developments balance environmental responsibility with improving life for residents through green spaces, support for local economies and biodiversity projects.
Bob Weston, chairman of Weston Group, said: “We are proud to be leading the way in delivering a Net Zero future.
“Our commitment to achieving Net Zero across all three scopes of carbon emissions by 2040 reflects our responsibility to the environment and the communities we serve.
“Through continued innovation and a focus on sustainable growth, we will ensure that Weston Group remains a pioneer in responsible development for years to come.”
