Spotlight on … Sustainability in SCRA
This time we shine the spotlight on sustainability. We talk to our Planning and Performance Manager Andrew MacDonald to find out more…
What is SCRA’s commitment to sustainability?
SCRA is committed to fulfilling its environmental responsibilities as part of its core functions. This includes contributing to Scotland’s national net zero target by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting Scotland’s climate change adaptation programme by improving resilience to the impacts of climate change.
Acting sustainably by making sustainable development is a core organisational value.
Our aim is to work in ways that are environmentally responsible, financially sustainable and aligned with national climate targets. This commitment is reflected in our strategic planning, operational improvements and the work of our Environmental Ambassadors.
What is SCRA’s strategic approach to sustainability?
In January 2024, the Strategic Sustainability Group (SSG) reaffirmed eight priority areas that now guide our sustainability efforts and are embedded within our Corporate and Business Plans.
These priorities are:
- Property Use – Creating energy-efficient offices and Hearing Centres.
- Energy Consumption – Using resources more intelligently and efficiently.
- Travel – Promoting active and sustainable travel options.
- Waste Minimisation – Reducing waste through reuse and recycling.
- Sustainable Procurement – Considering environmental, social and economic impacts when purchasing goods and services.
- Biodiversity – Enhancing and protecting the natural environment.
- Staff Awareness and Behaviour Change – Building knowledge and encouraging sustainable practices.
- Data Capture and Analysis – Measuring progress and identifying opportunities for improvement.
What sustainability targets has SCRA set?
In our Sustainability Bridge Plan, we have committed to three key targets: achieving a 10–20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2022/23 levels within three years, sending zero waste to landfill by 2030 and reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.
What is the Sustainability Bridge Plan?
The Sustainability Bridge Plan was created to support environmental improvement activities between 2025 and the development of a new sustainability plan aligned with the next Corporate Plan in 2027.
The plan focuses on strengthening SCRA’s sustainability culture by placing staff attitudes, efforts and choices at the centre of progress, while prioritising actions that require limited financial investment.
It is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: October 2025 – March 2026
- Phase 2: April 2026 – March 2027
What was the focus of Phase 1?
Phase 1 aimed to create a more engaged and informed workforce, with individuals, teams and localities playing a greater role in driving sustainability improvements.
Building on the environmental awareness campaign led by the Communications Team, the focus was on helping colleagues understand:
- What the sustainability priorities are.
- Why they matter.
- What they are trying to achieve.
- How everyone can contribute through their everyday work.
The intention was to make sustainability feel relevant, practical and easy to incorporate into day-to-day activities.
The Phase 1 priorities were travel, waste minimisation, staff awareness, engagement and behaviour change, as well as improving data capture and analysis.
What progress was made during Phase 1?
Several important achievements were made during Phase 1, including a year-long sustainability awareness campaign led by our Environmental Ambassadors. The campaign supported SCRA’s contribution to Scotland’s net zero target and encouraged colleagues to adopt sustainable practices. Topics included food waste, recycling, sustainable travel, biodiversity and energy consumption.
Greater collaboration – the first joint event between our Environmental Ambassadors and SCRA’s Strategic Sustainability Group provided an opportunity to share good practice, learn from one another and build a shared sense of purpose.
Local action across SCRA – Localities continued to deliver environmental improvement actions through their annual locality plans.
Improved understanding of energy consumption – the Business Development team undertook a major project to establish and understand energy use across all SCRA buildings, providing valuable data to support future decision-making.
Environmental Ambassadors joining the SSG – Environmental Ambassadors became standing members of the Strategic Sustainability Group, strengthening collaboration and engagement.
Sustainable travel guidance – travel guides were produced for each office, highlighting public transport options and encouraging reduced car use.
A shared sustainability language – a glossary of environmental and sustainability terms was developed and published on our staff intranet to improve understanding across the organisation.
What will Phase 2 focus on?
Phase 2 will introduce more ambitious actions and activities, supported by stronger data and evidence. Key areas of focus will include:
- Getting more staff and teams involved in improving our environmental performance as an organisation
- Keep working closely with the Environmental Ambassadors
- Establishing robust performance measures through improved data collection and analysis.
- Identifying new ideas and techniques to encourage sustainable behaviours.
- Developing, consulting on and implementing a Sustainability/ Net Zero Plan for 2027-2030.
What does the future look like for sustainability at SCRA?
SCRA views sustainability as a journey of continuous improvement, collaboration and commitment. As we move forward, we will continue to strengthen our plans, engage our workforce and implement meaningful actions that support a greener and more sustainable future.
The Phase 2 plan will continue to evolve as we gain better data, work more closely with Environmental Ambassadors and learn from the experiences of staff and teams across the organisation. By working together, we can ensure sustainability becomes an integral part of how we operate and deliver our services.