Go-Ahead is among just two European bus and rail operators to qualify for the Financial Times (FT) inaugural European Climate Leaders ranking.
The ranking identifies 300 companies across Europe from a pool of 4000 that have made the greatest strides to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity (measured as tonnes of CO2 equivalent per €1m of revenue) in the period between 2014-2019.
In that period, Go-Ahead achieved an overall reduction of core GHG emissions by 22.5%, or 7.5% annually.
The list takes account of Scope 1 emissions, or those GHGs emitted directly from sources controlled by the organisation, and indirect Scope 2 emissions, such as those generated through the purchase of electricity.
Carbon cutting initiatives by the Group include a commitment to run a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035, the use of renewable electricity across all its UK premises, and geo-fencing of hybrid vehicles to enable zero-emission operation in city centres.
“We’re pleased that Go-Ahead has been recognised for cutting carbon emissions. We will continue to ensure our buses, trains, depots and assets are as sustainable as possible – for the good of the planet and our passengers,” says Katy Taylor, Go-Ahead’s Chief Customer and Strategy Officer. “However, we can all play our part in helping reduce emissions further. We need people to switch their journeys away from the car and to choose walking, cycling and public transport instead. That will have the biggest impact on reducing the UK’s overall carbon emissions.”
FT reports that UK companies lead its European Climate Leaders list, with 94 qualifying in total. Switzerland and Germany follow, each with 35 companies.
