Central Group’s Journey to Net Zero with Elemental Consulting Group

In an era where sustainability is no longer optional but a business imperative, Central Roofing Group (CRG) has taken a bold step towards achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050. Partnering with Elemental Consulting Group, CRG has developed a comprehensive Carbon Management Plan that not only aligns with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) but also sets a benchmark for the construction and manufacturing sectors. This case study delves into the specifics of how Elemental has guided CRG through this transformative journey, showcasing the tangible results and strategic interventions that have been implemented.

Central Roofing Group, comprising Central Roofing and Building Services (CRBS) and Central Roofing South Wales (CRSW), has been a leading provider of roofing and cladding solutions since 1984. With over 150 employees and operations across six UK locations, CRG serves both private and public sectors. Despite its established presence, CRG recognised the urgent need to address its carbon footprint, particularly in light of the UK’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 68% by 2030 and achieving Net Zero by 2050.

The Challenge

CRG’s operations, like many in the construction and manufacturing sectors, are energy-intensive. The company’s carbon footprint spans Scope 1 (direct emissions from owned or controlled sources), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased electricity), and Scope 3 (all other indirect emissions across the value chain). In 2021, CRG’s total emissions stood at 2,488.39 tonnes of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent), with Scope 3 emissions accounting for a staggering 78.62% of the total footprint.

The challenge was clear: CRG needed to reduce its emissions across all scopes while maintaining operational efficiency and competitiveness. This required a strategic, data-driven approach to carbon management, which is where Elemental Consulting Group stepped in.

Elemental’s Approach

Elemental Consulting Group, a leader in energy compliance and sustainability, worked closely with CRG to develop a robust Carbon Management Plan. The plan was structured around six key intervention areas:

1. Stakeholder Engagement
2. Asset Carbon Reduction
3. Driving a Cleaner Future
4. Accelerating Renewable Energy
5. Offsetting Carbon Emissions
6. Engaging the Supply Chain

Each intervention area was meticulously planned, with specific actions, timelines, and measurable targets. Elemental’s expertise in carbon accounting, energy management, and sustainability strategy ensured that CRG’s plan was not only ambitious but also achievable.

Key Achievements

1. Baseline Emissions and Progress Tracking
   Elemental helped CRG establish a baseline for its carbon emissions, using the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol. In 2021, CRG’s total emissions were 2,488.39 tonnes of CO2e. By the end of 2022, CRG had achieved a 0.46% reduction in emissions, bringing the total down to 2,476.89 tonnes of CO2e. While this may seem modest, it represents the first step in a long-term strategy that will see CRG achieve Net Zero by 2050.
2. Scope 1 and 2 Emissions Reduction
   Elemental identified key areas for reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, which primarily come from fuel use in company vehicles and electricity consumption. CRG has already implemented several measures, including:
   • Introducing hybrid and electric vehicles into the company fleet, resulting in a 2% reduction in emissions.
   • Upgrading lighting to LED across all locations, saving 3% in electricity consumption.
   • Reducing inter-office travel through the use of remote meetings, cutting emissions by 1%.
3. Scope 3 Emissions: Tackling the Supply Chain
   Scope 3 emissions, which account for 78.62% of CRG’s total footprint, presented the greatest challenge. Elemental worked with CRG to engage its supply chain, focusing on the largest contributors to Scope 3 emissions, such as purchased goods and services (53.8% of Scope 3 emissions) and waste (24.7%). Key actions included:
   • Reviewing procurement processes to prioritise low-carbon materials and suppliers.
   • Implementing a nationwide waste reporting system to track and reduce waste-related emissions.
   • Engaging suppliers to measure and reduce their own carbon impacts.
4. Renewable Energy and Electrification
   Recognising the need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, Elemental helped CRG develop a plan to install Solar PV systems at its Bridgend facility. This initiative is expected to generate 50% of the site’s electricity needs by 2025, with further plans to implement battery storage by 2030.
5. Carbon Offsetting
   For emissions that cannot be eliminated, Elemental recommended leading-practice carbon offsetting techniques, such as reforestation. CRG plans to offset its final residual emissions by 2049, ensuring a scientifically robust pathway to Net Zero.

Results and Impact

Through Elemental’s guidance, CRG has not only set a clear pathway to Net Zero but has also begun to see tangible results. The company has reduced its carbon footprint by 0.46% in the first year, with significant reductions expected as more interventions are implemented. CRG’s commitment to sustainability has also strengthened its reputation as a responsible business, enhancing its appeal to clients and stakeholders who prioritise environmental performance.

Central Roofing Group’s partnership with Elemental Consulting Group exemplifies how businesses in the construction and manufacturing sectors can take meaningful action on climate change. By combining strategic planning, data-driven insights, and a commitment to continuous improvement, CRG is well on its way to achieving its Net Zero goals. Elemental’s expertise has been instrumental in this journey, proving that sustainability is not just a challenge but an opportunity for growth and innovation.