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Environmental Sustainability

Delivering environmental solutions that support long-term sustainability across the water and wastewater sector.

Overview

Sustainability at the core of everything we do

We place sustainability at the heart of our operations as an specialist environmental engineering contractor. By integrating robust policies and innovative practices, Browne is shaping a more sustainable future for the water infrastructure sector. Whether through reducing carbon emissions, promoting biodiversity, or innovating resource use, we are leading with purpose and action.

Carbon reduction roadmap

Operational Net Zero by 2030

1

Low Carbon Operations

Now → 2030

  • Net Zero operational emissions by 2030
  • 10% reduction by 2025 (from 2022/23 baseline)
  • Emissions verified to ISO 14064-3
2

Greener Transport & Fleet

Now → 2030

  • 80% low-carbon fleet by 2030 (EV, HVO, hybrid)
  • EV salary scheme with 27% grey fleet onboard
  • Charge points installed and eco-driving training in place
3

Sustainable Sites

2025 → Ongoing

  • 100% eco cabins by end of 2024
  • Using solar, batteries, HVO, hybridtools
  • Grid-first setups and renewable energy tariffs
4

People & Supply Chain

2025 → Ongoing

  • Carbon literacy for staff and suppliers
  • “Buy Better” focus: less packaging, more reuse
  • 5% delivery reduction target, tracked via SustainIQ

Carbon Reduction

Turning commitment into action

We turn ambition into measurable progress by embedding carbon reduction across our operations. Emissions are tracked annually, and progress is reported transparently. Initiatives include fleet electrification, switching to HVO fuels, using low-carbon site compounds, and reducing material impacts through smarter design. At Mogden STW, we cut embodied carbon by 40% through off-site fabrication and efficient material choices, demonstrating how practical changes on the ground can deliver significant environmental benefits, project by project.

“We’re on track for Net Zero operational Scope 1 emissions by 2030, with clear action and honest progress. By 2027, we aim to divert all avoidable waste from landfill, and our site welfare cabins are now fully sustainable. These are important steps, and we’re proud to be taking them.”

Jon Tucker – Sustainability Manager

Creating a circular economy

Resources & Waste

Reducing waste on site

Each project includes a Waste Management Plan, supported by our Go Green Portal to track waste, recycling, and reduction.

Reducing waste off site

We use off-site fabrication for kiosks, MCC panels, and plant, cutting site waste and improving quality.

Certified Procurement

We source from certified suppliers (FSC, BES6001, CARES) and partner with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to drive improvement.

How we’re taking action

Enhancing biodiversity

From the outset of each project, we work with clients to identify biodiversity opportunities through habitat creation, green infrastructure, and ecological improvements. Aligned with Schedule 7A of the Town and Country Planning Act, we target over 10 percent Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), supporting Local Authorities with on site enhancements, planning, and evidence of outcomes.

Example Initiative: Southern Water, Seaford

When local community leader Hilary set out to transform an unused area in Seaford into a biodiverse haven, Cappagh Browne was proud to support the vision as part of our work with Southern Water. Together, we planted a native species hedgerow around the pumping station, digging a 60m trench and planting 350 young trees with help from our team and local primary school pupils. With no mow zones and species like Blackthorn, Elder and Field Maple now thriving, the space is becoming a living classroom and a peaceful retreat for the community. One year on, it is a place for learning, nature and future generations.

Method

Explore our commitment to Health & Safety at Browne

Explore how our policies, practices and training ensure safe, compliant, and confident environments for everyone involved.

Learn more

At Browne we’re
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