Ayres Haynes Architects Carbon Reduction Plan
1. Introduction
Ayres Haynes Architects is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the UK’s target of achieving Net Zero by 2050. This plan aligns with the UK Government’s Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 06/21 and follows best practices for carbon reporting and reduction strategies. Our approach includes measuring, reducing, and offsetting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while integrating sustainability into our architectural projects and business operations.
2. Baseline Emissions Footprint
As per PPN 06/21 reporting requirements, we measure and report our Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions annually, using recognized carbon accounting methodologies such as the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol and ISO 14064-1.
Baseline Year: 2024
Total CO₂ Emissions (Tonnes CO₂e): 15
Breakdown of emissions:
Scope 1 (Direct Emissions): Gas heating in office spaces, fuel used in company vehicles.
Scope 2 (Indirect Energy Emissions): Electricity purchased for office use, heating, cooling, and IT equipment.
Scope 3 (Other Indirect Emissions): Business travel, supply chain emissions from construction materials, employee commuting, project-related site visits, and waste disposal.
3. Carbon Reduction Targets
Commitments & Interim Goals
Short-term (by 2025): Reduce emissions by 20% through improved energy efficiency and material selection.
Medium-term (by 2030): Reduce emissions by 50%, emphasizing sustainable design and supply chain improvements.
Long-term (by 2050): Achieve Net Zero emissions through a combination of reduction strategies and offsetting.
4. Carbon Reduction Initiatives
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Transition office energy supply to 100% renewable sources.
Upgrade office lighting to LED bulbs and install smart energy management systems.
Improve insulation and ventilation in office buildings.
Encourage sustainable IT practices, including energy-efficient hardware and cloud-based collaboration.
Sustainable Design & Construction Practices
Prioritize low-carbon, sustainable building materials in architectural designs.
Incorporate passive design principles to reduce energy demand in new projects.
Conduct Whole Life Carbon Assessments (WLCAs) as per RICS Professional Statement where apropriate.
Collaborate with contractors and suppliers that adhere to Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
Promote modular construction and prefabrication, where appropriate, to reduce construction waste.
Sustainable Transportation & Travel
Transition company vehicles to electric or hybrid models.
Encourage employees to use public transport, cycling, or remote work to reduce commuting emissions.
Reduce business travel by increasing the use of virtual meetings and digital collaboration tools.
Supply Chain & Waste Reduction
Partner with suppliers offering low-carbon building materials and meeting Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
Implement a recycling & waste management program for office and project sites.
Reduce reliance on paper by adopting digital documentation and BIM (Building Information Modelling) workflows.
Carbon Offsetting & Biodiversity
Invest in verified carbon offset programs that meet Gold Standard or Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) where possible.
Design buildings that support biodiversity, such as green roofs, urban rewilding, and wildlife-friendly spaces.
Participate in industry-led carbon offset programs related to construction and architecture.
5. Measuring & Reporting Progress
To comply with PPN 06/21 and SECR (Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting), we:
Conduct annual carbon footprint assessments using tools like RICS Whole Life Carbon Assessment and Carbon Trust tools.
Report Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions in line with GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1.
Publish an annual sustainability report outlining progress and updates.
Set Science-Based Targets (SBTs) for ongoing emissions reductions.
Provide transparent disclosures in compliance with TCFD (Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures).
6. Governance & Responsibility
Nel Ayres, Director and Architect, will oversee the implementation of this plan.
Employees will be trained on sustainable architectural practices and low-carbon design.
We will collaborate with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies to promote sustainable architecture.
Carbon reduction efforts will be reviewed by senior management and reported to stakeholders.
7. Declaration & Review
This Carbon Reduction Plan will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to align with UK Government policies, procurement requirements, and best practices.
Last Updated: 19.03.25
Signed By: Neil Ayres
Position: Director / Architect
Contact: admin@ayreshaynes.com