Sustainability at Forkers

At Forkers, our commitment to sustainability is ingrained in the very core of our operations. As a leading civil engineering company in the midlands, we recognize the profound impact our industry can have on the environment. That's why we are dedicated to implementing sustainable practices at every stage of our projects. From embracing innovative technologies to minimize carbon footprints to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among our team, sustainability is not just a goal – it's a company core value. We continually strive to balance progress with planet-friendly practices, ensuring that our legacy is one of responsible construction and a greener, more sustainable future.

Our Commitment

Through the Science-based Target Initiative, we have set a science-based target to drive carbon reduction across the business. Aiming to reduce scope 1 carbon emissions by 42% by 2023 from a 2022 baseline and begin monitoring scope 3 emissions. In line with the latest climate science, this target drives carbon reduction across the business.  As a silver EcoVadis rated business, we are always striving to improve our ethical and procurement practices to benefit our supply chain and our employees, alongside our environmental and carbon reduction commitments.

Broader Emphasis on Sustainability

Our carbon reduction and sustainability initiatives are further guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development goals (SDGs). They serve as a valuable guide for the business by offering a universal framework that promotes a holistic approach, fostering innovation and encouraging collaboration. Embracing the SDGs allows Forkers to not only meet current sustainability expectations but also contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable and resilient future. We have given precedence to six key goals that align specifically with our industry and are relevant to our business.

Silver Supplier of the Year!

Our sustainability efforts over the last 2 years since our journey began have earned us recognition by Severn Trent supply chain team! Ian Haywood (joint managing director) and Alice Fraser (our sustainability lead) have driven carbon reduction initiatives across the business and have lots of exciting plans for the future to ensure Forkers works and grows sustainability. This is what Severn Trent had to say:

Making it happen!

Reducing Our Reliance On Fossil Fuels

We have invested in a number of electric pieces of plant equipment. These new electric tools deliver comparable, if not enhanced, results compared to their diesel counterparts. In addition to generating zero operational carbon emissions, they are significantly quieter and do not emit air pollutants. This commitment to electric equipment not only promotes a safer environment for our employees and customers but also contributes to a more sustainable work environment in the areas we operate.

Forkers site operatives using the electric vibratory plate (pictured left) and the electric rammer (pictured right)

Electric Van Trials

Having 52% of our company car fleet comprised of electric or hybrid models, our goal is to exclusively provide electric company vehicles to our employees. Our sustainability lead has undertaken a feasibility study on a Toyota ProAce van, assessing its mileage and practicality to explore the viability of incorporating electric vans into our fleet.

We are exploring the alternatives for older fleet vans with electric options that are practical for our team. It is crucial to guarantee that these vehicles have an adequate range, especially when fully loaded with equipment, as our sites are often located in remote areas without car charging facilities. Therefore, the vans must boast dependable mileage ranges to meet our operational needs.

Supporting Communities

We actively engage with the communities in which we operate. Through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, and collaborating with community organisations, we strive to make a positive difference. We also coordinate with clients and suppliers to ensure that our efforts are focused and yield optimal results for the well-being of these communities.

Generating our own electricity

We are currently in the design phase of installing solar panels on the roof of one of our warehouses at our head office in West Bromwich. At Forkers we believe in leading by example. The decision to install solar panels on our warehouse roof is a proactive step towards a greener future. By investing in solar energy, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also inspire positive change within our industry.

Why solar?

• Reduced Carbon Footprint: By harnessing solar power, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our reliance on traditional energy sources that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with our commitment to combat climate change and work towards a sustainable future.
• Cost Savings: While the initial investment in solar panels may seem substantial, the long-term benefits include significant cost savings on electricity bills. Our pay back time has been estimated at just over 5 years and monthly energy costs will be reduced by 60%.
• Energy Independence: Solar power provides a reliable and independent source of energy. By generating our electricity on-site, we become less dependent on external energy sources, ensuring a more resilient and secure energy supply for our operations.

This project is a testament to our founder, and the companies ongoing commitment to sustainability. As we venture into the construction phase of this solar installation, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on the environment. Stay tuned for updates as we reduce our reliance on grid electricity and move towards a more sustainable energy supply!

Recycling and reusing

We have been empowering our employees to take ownership of their PPE, increasing the life of garments by safely washing and returning all PPE. By reusing and recycling all PPE using StaySafe who clean, repackage or dispose of old and worn PPE.

So far, 118 kgs PPE has been reused/recycled, resulting in 1.73 tonnes CO2e offset. This includes all FFP3/Dust Masks and filters

We are looking to upscale this scheme into 2024/25, aiming to double the quantity of PPE that we send to stay safe to being reused or responsibly disposed off.

Engaging our staff

Keeping our workforce informed about the advancements we've made in sustainability throughout the entire organization is crucial for maintaining continuous engagement and fostering the adoption of various initiatives. We provide regular lunch and learns, and toolbox talks.

What's next?

Near Zero Operational Emissions Site

After achieving success in 2023 through investments in electric plant equipment, we are now setting our sights on an ambitious initiative at one of our smaller sites. We plan to conduct trials involving a range of cutting-edge, no, or low-emission technologies. Essential considerations for this scheme include the site's size, the project's duration, and the willingness of collaborating companies to coordinate machinery trials in alignment with the chosen project's schedule.

Achieving this goal will necessitate cooperation and support from various departments within the organization. We eagerly anticipate dedicating time and effort to ensure the success of this initiative, aiming to make it one of the pioneering efforts in the industry.