ESG is a framework that examines the internal makeup of an organisation, in addition to the external work it completes in the world, through the lens of its three pillars: environmental activity, its social values and sustainability impact, and its internal leadership, management and decision-making.

‍

The E’ in ESG stands for ‘Environmental’ and is one of three criteria referring to a set of standards regarding how an organisation behaves in terms of sustainability and social conscience. With the ever more pressing environmental challenges we face as a global community, such as climate change and pollution, we at IHP believe that it is pertinent to embed ESG into our business approach. IHP has developed an ESG ‘Environmental’ framework that defines the principles, objectives, and focal areas of our activities within the scope of environmental protection, safety, and the conservation of natural resources.  The framework’s purpose is to ensure environmentally conscious and sustainable development of the organisation in the short term as well as in the long term. All our ESG considerations also intersect with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a series of policy aims put forward by the United Nations that align with our purpose, ethos and values.

‍

Where we are

‍

Domestically, at our office in the UK, we are committed to working in a responsible manner and sustaining an environment that considers energy and carbon impacts. In terms of waste management, recycling options are available and digital working means that the usage of paper and other physical resources is at a minimum. We also embrace working from home for 60% of working hours, reducing the potential effect of transport on the environment. Travel to work is down to staff choice. A cycle-to-work scheme is available and bike storage and showers are available at the office. Aside from this, there are excellent public transport options to the office.

Externally, our model is one which is based on moving products globally. Different transport options carry different carbon impacts, and when we request quotes for a shipment, we also obtain estimated emissions information. This is then shared with the partner who makes a decision on their preferred shipping option.

‍

‍

Where we want to be

‍

We want to combat climate change and further adhere to SDG 12 – responsible consumption and production – by considering the environmental impact of other business activities e.g. staff training and away days. Additionally, even though we work in serviced offices, we will be suggesting more sustainable initiatives to our landlord such as composting and better food waste disposal options. We also want to act more sustainably in turning off electronics and lights at the end of the work day. In terms of SDG 11 – sustainable cities and communities – IHP wants to encourage and enable active assessment of carbon footprint in travel plans. For SDG 13 – relating to climate action – we are working in conjunction with partners to introduce environmental impact considerations into programmatic intervention criteria currently being developed. In this way, we hope to embed environmentally conscious and sustainable practices into our business operations.

‍

As a values-driven organisation, our approach to the ‘Environmental’ aspect of the ESG framework is continually evolving and we believe that there is always progress to be made to meet our ESG commitments. We are committed to reducing our carbon and energy impacts and believe that climate change is one of the greatest risks to our planet. Our Christian faith tells us that this is God’s world, of which we are to be faithful stewards. Therefore, we are reviewing ways in which we can grow and develop, ensuring that all business practices and decision-making have an ‘Environmental’ consideration, as well as committing to work with partners who share in our vision.

‍