Hermes has announced an ambitious ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) programme designed to reduce its impact on the planet, promote equality and fairness and increase transparency about its operations.
Nancy Hobhouse, who recently joined the business as head of ESG from John Lewis where she was senior sustainability manager, will steer strategy. Hermes has also now signed the Climate Pledge, which is a commitment to be net-zero carbon by 2040 or sooner. Over 200 companies are committed.
Hermes has completed its Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon assessment and has just expanded its fleet of low carbon Bio-CNG trucks to 160, the largest of its kind in the UK. 30% of Hermes’ van fleet serving its Parcel Shops and Lockers is now electric.
In addition, all its operations use 100% certified renewable electricity and Hermes claims it will be the first dedicated parcel company to trial an electric HGV. Future targets include becoming net zero by 2035 for direct and indirect emissions.
“We will continue to reduce carbon emissions across our operations by focusing on our vehicles, infrastructure, and innovative products and services,” said Hobhouse. “We are firmly on the road to net zero and proud we are the lowest carbon per parcel of any dedicated parcel company. However, we know that there’s more to do, and we will continue to innovate and drive this agenda forward.”
Hermes will also sign up to the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) by 2022. In addition, all senior leadership will have ESG in their objectives from 2022 and all employees and contractors will receive mandatory ESG training.
