This achievement is a key milestone in its Journey2030 strategy, which aligns with global and regional sustainability goals, including the UN SDGs and UAE Green Agenda 2030.

 

The ninth annual sustainability report covering the fiscal year from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024, details Summertown Interiors’ progress across eight critical areas including:

 

*Sustainable Projects: 21% of 24 Summertown projects achieved LEED accreditation, with 51% of materials sustainably sourced. A new project management software, Mastt, was introduced to enhance real-time data tracking and efficiency across all projects, and CyberSafe training was implemented to strengthen IT security across all operations.

*Environmental Impact: Alongside significant waste diversion successes, Summertown recorded a 30% reduction in water intensity per person (3.6 cu m) and a 3.6% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions (838 kg CO2e) per person compared to the previous year. 

*Social: The firm became the first fit-out contractor to earn Great Place To Work recognition, with 88% of employees recommending the company. Its diverse and inclusive workforce comprises 14 nationalities and 34.8% female representation.

*Community: The Summertown Employer Supported Volunteering Scheme was introduced, giving employees two paid days annually to contribute to community initiatives and meaningful volunteer work.

Transparency and Anti-corruption: The company maintained a spotless record with zero incidents of corruption reported. This was supported by 100% of employees completing anti-corruption training.

*Economic Performance: Despite a 32% turnover adjustment, Summertown Interiors remains financially stable, with turnover figures only 4% below the five-year average.

*Human Rights: All employees completed human rights training, and 100% of vendors were vetted through rigorous procurement processes. No employee grievances were reported, underscoring the company’s commitment to a fair and respectful workplace.

 

Marcos Bish, Managing Director of Summertown Interiors, said: "Our 2024 Sustainability Report highlights our unwavering commitment to sustainability. Journey2030 isn’t just a strategy - it’s our north star, guiding us to deliver sustainable interior solutions and create a safe, thriving workplace."

 

"We align with the UAE’s national sustainability agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals because we believe in a future where every project contributes to a better world," he stated.

 

The Summertown 2024 Sustainability Report follows the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, ensuring high-quality reporting grounded in principles of accuracy, balance, clarity and verifiability. 

 

The firm also conducts extensive internal assurance processes, including reviews by the sustainability committee, corporate team members, and all responsible departments to uphold the report’s integrity and reliability.

 

"Over the past year, we’ve focused on meeting external sustainability accreditations for all projects, eliminating waste to landfills from our offices and sites, and improving workplace happiness and well-being. As we move forward, we’re committed to leading the charge in sustainable fit-out practices and education, constantly evolving and innovating to meet our Journey2030 goals," he added.-TradeArabia News Service