The Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants works hard to raise awareness of environmental issues and the importance of sustainability. Our Liverymen and Freemen have seen how the impact of climate change, and the need for sustainable construction, is changing the way we build in the UK, and while progress has been made, we know there is still a long way to go if the UK is to meet its net zero targets.
As a Livery that represents a central part of the construction supply chain, we have always supported education and training, especially where we can help young achievers and those who will take our industry forwards over the coming years and decades. This support includes offering bursaries to inspire individuals to further their learning and develop their skills in the merchant sector.
As a member of the Livery Climate Action Group, we are keen to promote environmental initiatives wherever possible, which is why we feature the ‘Caring for the Environment’ Award as part of our annual City & Awards luncheon. This popular event brings Liverymen, Freemen, prize winners and guests together to celebrate success, as well as wider achievements and contributions made both within our own industry, and by our affiliations.
Our Caring for the Environment Award acknowledges those whose efforts have resulted in greater sustainability or resource efficiency in areas of waste management, manufacturing processes, packaging or product development. After the Judging Panel examines all submitted entries, a winning supplier and merchant member are chosen who have shown exemplary leadership on environmental issues.
The winning supplier member in 2022 was Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation, and the winning merchant member was Bradfords Building Supplies.
Polypipe’s environmental work has focused on creating a new generation of rainwater reuse and green asset technologies to transform the resilience and biodiversity of the urban environment. The company’s environmental goals are intended to encourage a greater understanding of how water management is vital to creating a more sustainable future.
Meanwhile, Bradfords Building Supplies developed an environmental sustainability strategy to drive the business’ direction and influence its communities to support the environmental agenda. It is also embedding ESG into its strategy, which will give the company the ability to test, set and hold itself accountable to targets for environmental sustainability, greenhouse gas emissions and waste.
Master Richard Hill says: “Our Livery Company believes strongly that the entire construction industry – and, indeed, all industries – must come together to protect the environment and strive for a more sustainable future. We are keen to support the Livery Climate Action Group in any way we can, while continuing to promote environmental issues across our Livery Company and in the wider community.”
Visit www.wcobm.co.uk for more information on our City & Awards event, and to learn more about last year’s Caring for the Environment Award winners.
Jennie Ward, WCOBM
Image: Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation was chosen as the Supplier Member winner of the 2022 Caring for the Environment Award, with the award presented by Guest of Honour Alderman and Sheriff Alison Gowman.