CASE STUDIES
Filkin & Co EHS Ltd
Filkin & Co EHS Ltd is part of the first group of organisations to sign up for the Pledge. They are a smaller consultancy with a great mission to help their clients grow whilst embedding sustainability principles and practices into their operations.
Learn more about what the process was like for them as a boutique consultancy from Dr. Bryony Turner, Technical Director at Filkin & Co EHS.
Why did Filkin & Co sign up for the Pledge?
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We, along with a number of our clients, are committed to leading by example. We recognise the importance and urgency of implementing practical measures that address the reductions in emissions of all GHGs. We advise and guide our clients to identify ways in which they can respond to this challenge and we wish to do the same by taking steps at all levels of our business to reduce our impact on the planet.
What was the process like for setting your target & understanding your GHG footprint?
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We had actually already started doing this, made easier by the fact we are home-based workers making occasional visits to client facilities. We do not manufacture products, manage stock or deliver goods.This meant this was straightforward for us.
What activities have you included in your scope and why?
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So far our emphasis has been on travel and accommodation as we had completed a number of work-related excursions throughout much of the UK and an overseas trip to Saudi Arabia so this was our most substantial impact. We are working on attributing our home electricity usage correctly and are envious of our clients that have detailed energy meters giving half hourly readings!
Have you experienced any challenges in setting your target or understanding your GHG footprint and if so, how have you overcome them?
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There seems to be a lot of confusion over carbon footprints in terms of science-based targets and practical steps that can be taken. We are always keen to understand all emissions and can become frustrated when people focus on just the carbon element when the issue is much wider. We are working hard to ensure our professional development is kept up-to-date and checking back with clients for whom we have provided assistance to ensure those practical measures that we have recommended are effective.In terms of our own targets the main challenge is identifying suitable alternatives to the way in which we travel and planning trips so that, for example, car journeys can be shared or mixed with train travel for lengthier journeys.
What actions will Filkin & Co be taking to reduce GHG emissions?
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We have taken a number of steps to ensure our travel is reduced (aside from the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown) and also by giving clients the peace of mind that we are a safe pair of hands that can deliver without having to attend their offices and being in line of sight all the time!
Why do you think it is important for the environmental services sector to take action on the transition to a low carbon future?
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We must lead by example and experience the daily challenges that are presented by the changes that are needed.This is essential to establish and maintain credibility with the organisations that we serve and to ensure that they value the advice provided.This will be underlined by advice that is based on first-hand experiences.
Do you have anything else you would like to add?​
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This is a massive issue for all our futures and if companies aren’t pledged to net zero emissions they are going to find it increasingly difficult to maintain reputation and trust with both their customers and staff.
Bryony Turner
Technical Director, Filkin & Co EHS
