At Leek Building Society, a key component of our purpose is that we will be socially responsible and make a positive difference to the lives of our customers, colleagues and the local communities in which we operate. This is particularly important when it comes to managing our impact on the environment and delivering on our commitment to being carbon neutral by 2050.

Ensuring that the impact of climate change is understood and particularly minimising the environmental impact of the Society’s business is of vital importance.

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An assessment of our carbon footprint has recently been completed by an independent expert. We're now working with them to develop a roadmap for reducing our carbon emissions, and implementing a carbon offsetting plan for any emissions that are unavoidable.

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We've also undertaken an environmental audit to identify areas where we can make positive changes to reduce the impact of our operations on the environment.

By installing modern, highly efficient LED lighting in our Customer Service Centre, we've significantly reduced our overall energy usage and carbon emissions. The same lighting is being deployed across our 12 branches as our branch refurbishment programme continues to be rolled out. We've reduced print volume by implementing online processes wherever possible.

 

Since our Environmental Working Group was established earlier this year, its members have played an integral role in ensuring the Society’s ongoing refurbishments work towards our goal to becoming carbon neutral by 2050. Other actions they've taken include employing a specialist waste management company to recycle waste from our Customer Service Centre and 12 branches, and ensuring that the electricity used by the Society is sourced from 100% renewable sources.

 

Later this year we will establish the carbon emissions associated with our mortgage portfolio and consider what action can be taken to reduce this. We'll continue to develop products to support and incentivise customers who wish to improve the energy efficiency of their own homes, or who are looking to purchase energy efficient properties.

 

 

We’re committed to reducing our carbon emissions and will update the initial assessment of our carbon footprint annually and disclose the results through our annual report and accounts.

 

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Join us in creating a greener community

 

We all play a part in reducing our impact on the environment. If you would like to help create a greener community, you can find a range of useful information to help you make more environmentally friendly choices.

• Energy Savings Trust: an independent organisation focused on sustainable energy use

• Green choices: top tips for a greener more sustainable lifestyle

• Carbon footprint: information on reducing carbon emissions

Every small action will build towards ensuring a sustainable and more environmentally friendly future for us all.