Wednesday 03 April 2019
Investec (Channel Islands) Limited has been successful in achieving a Silver Keep Guernsey Green Award.
The award recognises organisations that help Guernsey maintain a healthy, clean environment, by operating to best practice in waste management and energy conservation. To achieve a Silver award Investec had to meet a set of high standards to demonstrate its commitment to reducing its impact on the environment.
Investec strive to continually improve their green credentials, highlighted in their corporate Procurement and Energy Policy which outlines the culture and values of the organisation and their approach to sustainable business.
Investec have improved their waste reduction and management practices and have undertaken an energy review, setting ambitious and ongoing targets to reduce the energy used across the business premises. So far energy use has reduced by 9% despite a small increase in staff numbers. The organisation's 'Team Green' encourage staff to reduce Investec's environmental footprint through various campaigns, raising awareness of environmental issues amongst employees to encourage sustainable behaviours.
Teresa O'Brien, head of Corporate Responsibility at Investec Bank plc., said:
"We're proud to continuously improve our waste and energy reductions at Investec. We've set ambitious targets, and, so far, energy use in Guernsey has reduced by 9% despite a small increase in headcount. Our group of environmental champions, 'Team Green', is an important part of this. They help colleagues become aware of environmental issues and encourage sustainable behaviours, both at work and at home."
Keith Tapscott, independent Assessor for the award, says:
"In working with Investec I have seen the benefits of a structure whereby standards and policies established at Head Office, are driven down but, implemented in a bespoke manner at local level, and importantly, communicated upwards as well with useful feedback. There is evidence of plenty of local initiatives and Investec has demonstrated a proactive commitment both in respect of core green matters and community activities in Guernsey."
Each organisation, which applies for the award, is subject to an assessment which monitors the current actions and future commitments taken by the company to reduce waste, increase recycling and improve energy conservation. An assessor is assigned to each organisation and provides guidance and support throughout the process.
The award is open to any size and type of organisation in Guernsey and is valid for three years after which it can be revalidated on a triennial basis. Further information is available on www.gov.gg/kgga.
