Gas Networks Ireland recognised for taking coordinated action on climate issues
Gas Networks Ireland achieved a ‘B-‘ in the Carbon Disclosure Platform (CDP) global emissions ratings, exceeding both the global and European average, as well as the sector average to finish in the top quartile of all businesses assessed globally.
The utility was recognised in the report as “taking coordinated action on climate issues” and scored particularly high in “scope 1 and 2 emissions” – direct and indirect emissions.
This was the first time that Gas Networks Ireland has participated in the assessment, transparently disclosing its carbon footprint, carbon reduction strategy and governance mechanisms to be rated against world-wide best practice.
Commenting on the global sustainability recognition, Gas Networks Ireland Head of Health, Safety, Quality and Environment, Conor Ahern, said:
“While most companies achieve a ‘D’ or maybe a ’C’ in their inaugural year participating in the CDP, we are delighted to have exceeded even our own expectations by attaining a ‘B-‘,” Mr Ahern said.
“This is a global validation of our achievements to date and underpins the journey we are on to decarbonise Ireland’s gas network and our operations as a whole.”
“We are particularly pleased that they recognised the strategic and coordinated approach we are taking to reduce our footprint nationally.”
CDP is a global non-profit that drives companies and governments to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, safeguard water resources and protect forests.
The CDP scores, which run from A to D, allow companies to understand their performance in reducing carbon emissions and identifies areas to focus on.
With 74% of companies scored achieving D-C scores, Gas Networks Ireland is in the top quartile across the globe.
“We are committed to improving our carbon management performance even further and will address the gaps identified in the CDP report and work towards achieving an ‘A’ rating,” Mr Ahern said.
“It’s wonderful to see four Irish companies attaining an “A” rating this year and I am delighted that Gas Networks Ireland is playing our part in helping Ireland to achieve its climate action targets.”
Earlier this year, Gas Networks Ireland struck gold and green twice at the Green Awards, winning both the Sustainable Energy Achievement Award and the Green Large Organisation of the Year Award 2020.
In December 2018, Gas Networks Ireland signed up to the Low Carbon Pledge to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030.
The Business in the Community initiative encourages Irish business to invest time and resources into creating a more sustainable operation, by being more energy efficient and reducing carbon usage.