Net Zero Update: Investing in Clean Energy and Communities
Reduction First, Offsetting Second
At Tony Gee, our primary focus remains clear: reducing our carbon footprint. We follow a strict hierarchy of action, prioritising the elimination of emissions through operational changes, and efficiency. However, for the emissions we cannot yet eliminate (our "residual" emissions), we take responsibility by investing in high-quality international offsets.
Our 2024 Performance
For the 2024 reporting period, our UK residual carbon footprint stood at 2,494 tonnes of carbon. This equates to an intensity ratio of approximately 5 tonnes per employee.
To ensure we fully cover our impact, including a buffer for our staff and operations outside of the UK, we have purchased offsets for 2,750 tonnes of carbon – based on 5 tonnes per global employee.
Why We Chose Renewable Energy
This year we have moved from supporting a mix including REDD+ (forestry protection) schemes to investing in active carbon reduction projects. Active renewable infrastructure delivers high, tangible social value. These projects provide immediate benefits to local communities, including:
- Alleviating Energy Poverty: Providing reliable access to clean electricity.
- Enhancing Resilience: Stabilising local infrastructure against climate and economic shocks.
- Preventing Downstream Emissions: Reducing the need for carbon-intensive logistics, such as long journeys to fetch basic resources like water and fuel.
Our Selected Projects
We have partnered with two independently verified renewable energy projects in Turkey to deliver these benefits. Both are certified under rigorous international standards to ensure environmental integrity:
- The Sincik Wind Power Plant (1,000 tonnes): Certified by the Gold Standard, this project displaces fossil fuel energy while supporting local economic development.
- The Akinci Hydroelectric Power Plant (1,750 tonnes): Certified by Verra (VCS), this project harnesses hydropower to provide clean, consistent energy to the regional grid.
By investing in these projects, we are not just neutralising our own impact; we are helping to build a cleaner, more prosperous future for communities that need it most.