Stagecoach is rolling out a free sustainability training programme for its top 300 suppliers in a UK-first initiative for the coach and bus sector.
The Sustainable Suppliers Training Programme is launched in collaboration with the United Nations Global Impact (UNGC) UK Network and aims to support the company’s suppliers to align with environmental, social and governance goals, and enhance corporate sustainability.
The training programme aims to educate suppliers on key sustainability principles, the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and international sustainability reporting standards.
By equipping its suppliers with the tools and knowledge to integrate sustainability into their operations, Stagecoach hopes to accelerate its net zero ambitions. Selected suppliers will undertake four training modules delivered through live sessions and online learning between March and September.
“Sustainability is at the core of our business. We have a responsibility to reduce our impact on the environment wherever we can, and the Sustainable Suppliers Training Programme helping us to expedite the delivery of our ESG goals,” says Greg Ritt, Group Head of Sustainability at Stagecoach. “Thanks to the joint efforts of our sustainability and procurement teams and our partnership with the UNGC UK Network, we’re providing our chosen suppliers with the training, tools and ongoing support they need to start their journey to sustainability and contribute to our bigger net zero picture.
“We’re excited to see the interest we’ve had already from some of our suppliers, which represents about £200 million in procurement spend, and look forward to more joining us on this journey.”
Stagecoach is one of seven major UK businesses participating in the scheme. Others include Aviva, BDO, Menzies Aviation, AVEVA Group, Crown Agents Bank, and law firm Freshfields.
