FirstGroup, parent company of First Bus, has been recognised in the list of “Europe’s 50 Most Sustainable Corporations”, rising 15 places from last year to 31st place.
The rankings from research firm Corporate Knights are based on a sustainability assessment of more than 620 publicly listed European companies.
The list of businesses is drawn from the STOXX Europe 600 Index and the top 100 Europe-headquartered publicly traded companies.
The criteria for ranking includes environmental impact, social responsibility, and good corporate governance.
Although rail accounts for FirstGroup’s revenue, FirstBus is among the UK’s largest bus operators and has recently been expanding its coaching arm.
First Bus is committed to a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
According to FirstGroup’s 2025 Environmental Performance Report, the operator has 1,115 zero emission buses in operation, representing around 20% of the fleet.
Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer, says: “Our bus and rail operations have a critical role in creating a connected, healthy, zero-carbon world. That’s why we are leading the way by decarbonising our fleet, reducing emissions, improving air quality and protecting the environment.
“We’re proud to again be recognised for our commitment to environmental and social responsibility, as we play our part resolving some of society’s most important challenges – climate change, congestion and air quality.”
