We are guided in our efforts by the RE Environmental Management System (EMS), aligned with the ISO 14001 environmental standard. We are committed to actively reducing our direct environmental impact by limiting resource use and by efficiently employing sustainable materials and technologies. We require our suppliers and contractors to meet the same objectives through our Socially Responsible Supplier programme.
Ongoing dialogue with stakeholders informs our EMS and environmental activities. In 2008, we engaged on environmental issues with employees; government agencies, including the UK’s Environment Agency and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; environmental charities and NGOs such as Earthwatch and the Woodland Trust; and specialists including The Carbon Trust, Best Foot Forward, and Eco Network Ltd. We also learn by participating in environmental benchmarking activities like the Business in the Environment index and the Carbon Disclosure Project, among others. We also advocate environmental improvements through forums such as Respect Table and The Global Alliance.
Our Environmental Champions network, led by the RE Global Environment and Health and Safety Manager, includes key employees in all operational areas of our business. They are charged with carrying out the EMS, while the heads of our three business units are responsible for complying with RE environmental policy and relevant government legislation and regulations. The CEO is responsible to the Board for company environmental performance. A green team network of environmental volunteers, encompassing more than 400 employees in over 75% of our key facilities, helps us achieve environmental improvements at a local level.