Craig International invests seven-figure sum as part of drive to become a more responsible business, reducing use of fossil fuels by 30%

Craig International has invested a seven-figure sum to bolster its sustainable business practices as it steps up efforts to decarbonise its operations and align with global net zero targets.  

The procurement specialists to the energy industry, which is passionate about supporting the sector’s drive towards net-zero and demonstrating the role procurement can play in reducing carbon emissions, is now turning its attention to its own sustainability goals.  

This has included moving into a million-pound energy-efficient HQ in Aberdeen, and the opening of its solar-powered warehouse on the northern outskirts of the Scottish city, in Potterton. 

The warehouse and yard, which has a footprint over 30,000 square feet, is used for receipt and dispatch of material orders procured sustainability and ethically by Craig for its global client base. It is entirely carbon free and designed to be ‘run by sun’. 

The company has also recently invested in its first electric vehicle as part of its transport fleet and replaced all its gas-powered forklifts with alternatives powered by battery. 

The firm says this marks a 30% reduction in its use of fossil fuels, reducing direct carbon emissions by more than 4400kg and representing a 2.6% reduction in its UK operations. The 4400kg of CO2 saved is equivalent to planting 266 trees.

A reduction in direct emissions for Craig International also results in a reduction in emissions for clients. Something that the group is already committed to, having previously launched new procurement platform services to improve environmental efficiencies.

Steve McHardy, joint managing director, said: 
“In addition to reviewing our own greenhouse gas emissions, we are making changes that also impact on shaping a low-carbon supply chain.

“That we have moved everything operationally feasible in Aberdeen to be powered by renewables brings me an immense sense of pride and we are continuing to assist our clients to become greener too.

“We will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable procurement, working closely with our partners and suppliers to create a better future for all.”

This has included the launch of ecobuy, Craig International’s sustainability digital platform. Unveiled almost five years ago, ecobuy offers customers the opportunity to buy more environmentally friendly and less wasteful products as well as identifying ways to reduce vehicle and vessel journeys in the delivery process. 

Its Energy Surplus platform, which allows companies to upload and trade surplus products globally, categorise the items and offer an inventory clean-up. This helps support and improve sustainability targets.

Mr McHardy continued: 
“Craig International has put sustainability and environmental responsibility high on our agenda for many years. This influences the way we operate as a business and how we support clients to reach their own environmentally responsible objectives.

“Over the last 12 months we have been exploring ways to improve our environmental footprint by switching to low-carbon alternatives, further developing our various initiatives, to make procurement and supply leaner and less wasteful. 

“As technology advances, we want to use new innovations to ensure we take the right action to tackling climate change, whilst continuing to deliver for our clients without disruption. 

“We are proud of the progress we have made, but we know there is much more to do.”

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: Craig International