Sustainability

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. In line with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, we carefully consider how our operations impact surrounding communities, businesses, and environments to ensure that we work responsibly at all times.

Environment

At James Fisher Strainstall (JF Strainstall), we are committed to minimising our environmental impact. In the world’s current state of climate emergency, we believe that this is critical, as it enables future generations to thrive in a clean, safe, and sustainable environment. As part of this goal, our team works to reduce carbon emissions by prioritising lower/zero emission technologies, while actively sourcing from environmentally-conscious suppliers. We also monitor gas, water, electricity, paper, and car usage to create environmental targets within our reporting structure, which drives a culture of sustainability across all areas of the business.

Employees

We recognise that our most important asset is our people. That’s why we prioritise their health, safety, and wellbeing above all else, while also providing equal opportunities for everyone. Within the wider James Fisher group, we actively participate in a number of working groups that enable the continuous review and improvement of our policies and procedures, including the James Fisher Diversity and Inclusion Working Group and the James Fisher Engagement Working Group. These platforms enable employees to make their voice heard, empowering them to play an active role in shaping JF Strainstall’s future direction.

Local communities

We understand that our operations overlap with local communities and our team maintains a keen focus on social responsibility at all times. We are committed to being good neighbours by always working safely and ethically across our global operations. We also give back to society by frequently participating in a host of community-driven initiatives, including charitable donations, local employment schemes, and apprenticeship programmes.

Customers and suppliers

The relationships that we build with our suppliers and customers are the foundations of our success. We understand our responsibility to our customers and suppliers, and we always make sure to source diligently while treating everyone fairly and with respect. Our supply chain is chosen through a rigorous approval process in line with our high standards for quality and sustainability. All potential suppliers must meet our QHSE expectations, as well as abide by our human rights, anti-corruption, anti-slavery, and environmental policies. This ensures that our customers benefit from first-class products and services that are delivered safely and ethically.

Our sustainability initiatives

We have launched a range of initiatives to drive sustainability within the business and its local community.

Emissions reduction

As part of our ongoing sustainability programme, we have invested in a new solar energy installation for our Cowes office in the Isle of Wight, UK. Installed in early 2020, our new REC N-Peak panels have already reduced the facility’s carbon emissions by over 4,600kg. The panels have also saved over 200 trees since their adoption.

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Recycling

To combat deforestation, we shred all non-confidential paper in our daily operations and reuse this as insulation in all product packaging. This significantly reduces our environmental impact by minimising paper use, which helps to save trees and wildlife.

Donations

After a complete renovation of our Cowes office, we donated all surplus desks to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice – a local hospice in the neighbouring town of Newport that provides end of life care and bereavement support. The team decided to send the desks after hearing the hospice was in need of furniture that would enable its remote employees to continue their important work.