See our brochure showcasing our net zero plan.
Net zero 2040
We recognise the urgency of climate change as a global crisis. Our commitment to achieving net zero by 2040 goes beyond more than just complying with our legal requirements; it is embedded in everything we do.
Our commitment to a sustainable future
Working to a clear roadmap set out within a detailed carbon management plan, we are developing ambitious policies to be a net zero company by 2040. Key milestones have been identified and include:
- In 2025 all new forklift trucks purchased will be fully electric or an alternative low/zero emission solution
- All new build offices to be energy-positive A+ EPC rated by 2025
- All new company cars to be hybrid or fully electric by 2025
- Wernick Group committing to the Pledge to the Net Zero campaign, aligning our net zero target with the Science Based Targets Initiative’s (SBTI) 1.5°C pathway
Manufacture
Sustainability is at the forefront of Wernick’s manufacturing process. Our approach is built on circular economy principles, ensuring efficient use of materials and minimising waste. By constructing modular units in a controlled environment, we design waste out of the process and optimise material usage. Any residual materials generated during manufacturing are recovered or recycled. We aim to:
- Purchase products and materials that are the most socially and environmentally responsible throughout their life cycle
- Reduce our consumption of resources
- Eliminate waste from products and materials by working with our people and suppliers, to design it out and utilise re-use and closed-loop systems
Our sustainable design process further reduces waste by using materials in their supplied sizes, minimising offcuts before manufacturing even begins. The majority of materials we use—including steel, aluminium and timber—can be repurposed or recycled at the end of their life.
Additionally, manufacturing in a factory setting allows us to source labour and materials locally, reducing the environmental impact of our supply chain.
Product
Wernick provide sustainable solutions to our clients by providing the data, technology, products and training to drive low carbon improvements with our customers. Substantial investment in our hire and power assets means that we have market leading technology available to deliver holistic solutions to reduce emissions, an example of this being our Greenspace hire range, which now holds an EPC A rating.
Energy efficiency varies from building to building but Wernick Buildings typically have an Energy Performance Rating of ‘B’. An ‘A’ rating is easily achievable with the addition of energy-saving features such as photovoltaic panels or air source heating.
Modular units can constitute permanent or temporary buildings and are also able to be re-sited if necessary, allowing them to be reused for a variety of purposes. Coupled with a long lifespan, this means a correctly maintained building can retain its utility for many years.
Our digital approach enables for paperless solutions for invoicing, collections and deliveries, improving accessibility while conserving resources.
Innovation
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint through adopting innovative solutions. One significant step we have taken is the installation of solar panels at three of our factories, two depots and our Head Office, collectively generating 410,000 kWh of renewable electricity each year.
Voltage optimisation units have been installed at our factory in South Wales, these units helps streamline our energy consumption. By optimising voltage levels, we are seeing a 9.2% reduction in energy usage.
At our Head Office, we have installed smart plug sockets that eliminate wasted energy. These plugs feature LED indicators that display the carbon intensity of our electricity, signalling the best time to charge devices as well as using machine learning to learn where power is being wasted with the ability to then eliminate this.
All of these small actions collectively act to decarbonise our operations, continued steps like these will aid us in our journey to reach net zero by 2040.
On site
Installing modular buildings has a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional construction. Since the majority of the building is manufactured off-site, no construction waste is produced on-site, reducing the risk of environmental damage. Additionally, modular installation generates far less noise pollution, minimising disruption to local communities and wildlife.
The speed of installation further reduces environmental impact. Depending on site conditions, it is common to crane in 10 to 12 units in a single day. In some cases, installations have reached up to 17 units in one day, allowing sites to recover quickly with minimal disruption.
Environmentally friendly options
Wernick’s buildings can be built with a broad range of renewable energy technologies from industry-leading manufacturers and suppliers with the following:
- Underfloor heating
- Ground and air source heating solutions
- Solar panel water heating systems
- PV panel electrical supply
- Biomass boilers
- Rainwater harvesting solutions
- A wide range of highly efficient air conditioning and comfort cooling/heating systems
- Controlled heating and lighting (BMS)
- Green walls and roofs to enhance local flora and fauna
Net zero 2040 brochure
Net zero 2040 roadmap
Have a look at our journey towards net zero.
Carbon Reduction Plan
View our commitment to achieving net zero.
