Case Study: Supporting an NHS Supplier in Carbon Footprint Measurement and Evergreen Assessment Compliance
Client Info
Client: Ardo Medical UK
Industry: Medical Devices
Service: Carbon Footprint Calculation, CRP, and Evergreen Support
Consultancy: C Free
Summary
Ardo Medical UK faced significant challenges in meeting the sustainability requirements of working with the NHS. Time constraints and a lack of expertise in carbon accounting hindered their ability to comply with various surveys and questionnaires, such as the Evergreen Assessment. Seeking to overcome these obstacles, the company engaged our services to measure their carbon footprint and develop a Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP). Through our collaboration, they not only achieved compliance but also initiated meaningful changes toward sustainability, positioning themselves for future NHS tenders and frameworks.
Challenge
Ardo Medical UK was grappling with the complexities of dealing with the NHS’s extensive sustainability reporting. Completing the necessary surveys and questionnaires was time-consuming and required specialised knowledge. Technical carbon accounting terms added another layer of difficulty, making it hard to understand and fulfil the requirements. This situation impeded their compliance with NHS standards and prevented them from identifying opportunities to reduce their carbon footprint.
Approach
To address these challenges, we provided comprehensive support tailored to their needs. We began by calculating their Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, along with the required subset of Scope 3 emissions, giving them a picture of their UK based carbon footprint and getting them started towards measuring all emissions. Recognising the importance of future compliance, we plan to calculate their full Scope 3 emissions in anticipation of upcoming changes in NHS requirements.
We provided a GHG Protocol-aligned report and dashboard, enhancing their understanding of their emissions data. This tool allowed them to visualise their carbon footprint and track progress over time, facilitating more informed decision-making.
We also assisted them in navigating the Evergreen Assessment. By conducting a 90-minute call, we walked Ardo Medical UK through each question, explaining technical terms and advising on how to respond effectively. Our guidance demystified the process, making it more manageable despite their initial lack of familiarity with carbon accounting concepts.
Results
Ardo Medical UK achieved Level 1 compliance on the Evergreen Assessment, meeting the NHS requirements and eliminating a significant barrier to participating in tenders and frameworks. The detailed emissions report and user-friendly dashboard empowered them to manage their carbon footprint proactively.
Ardo Medical UK began implementing practical measures to reduce emissions. They initiated the process of changing their company cars to hybrid or electric vehicles. Additionally, they invested in insulating their offices and updating their printers to more energy-efficient models, contributing to reduced energy consumption and Scope 2 emissions.
Outcomes and Impact
Our collaboration had a profound impact on the company's operational efficiency and sustainability trajectory. By overcoming the initial hurdles of understanding and compliance, they positioned themselves favourably for future NHS tenders and frameworks, with the CRP and Evergreen Assessment enhancing their credibility.
The steps they took not only improved their environmental performance but also demonstrated a commitment to sustainability that resonated with clients and partners. This commitment is likely to yield long-term benefits, including cost savings from reduced energy consumption and a stronger market position due to their proactive approach to environmental responsibility.
Looking ahead, we will continue to support them in their second year of reporting, assisting with the full calculation of Scope 3 emissions and further refining their sustainability strategies. This ongoing partnership underscores their dedication to continuous improvement and establishes a strong foundation for future initiatives.
Testimonial
"We have worked with C Free now for a number of years and we are more than happy to recommend them. They are reliable, work quickly and they communicate clearly with us what information we need to provide – and when – to get our CRP completed."
