As sustainability transforms from aspiration to necessity, we are setting out our roadmap to achieve carbon Net Zero by 2050. Affinity’s parent company, Mi Hub, aims to be transparent and measured in its carbon reduction strategy, committing to developing a verified carbon footprint to allow accurate and proven reductions. This bold commitment to transparency is market-leading in a landscape where spend-based carbon accounting is still the primary choice for most organizations. The roadmap to net zero reflects our commitment to environmental responsibility and to setting industry benchmarks for sustainable practices. Here’s an in-depth look at the strategies, tools, and goals we are implementing to pave a path toward a net-zero future.
Why Net Zero Matters
With climate change posing urgent global challenges, the need to reduce our carbon footprint has never been greater. We recognize that achieving carbon net zero is not just about aligning with global commitments; it’s about proactively reducing environmental impact and positioning ourselves as leaders in responsible business practices. By setting near- and long-term science-based targets to reduce emissions, we are among the pioneering organizations aligning with climate science to reduce and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
Strategic Commitment to Carbon Neutrality Net Zero
Our commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 aligns with the Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, to limit the effects of climate change. The agreement, signed by over 175 countries, focuses on pursuing efforts to cap the global temperature rise to 1.5°C. To achieve this, we are developing a verified carbon inventory covering Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions to allow for a comprehensive analysis of all direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions. This multi-scope, verified approach enables us to identify areas of improvement across operational emissions and our supply chain, ensuring transparency, accountability, and completeness in tracking our environmental impacts.
The ISO 14064-1 Greenhouse Gases as Framework to Achieve Net Zero
ISO-14064 – 1 Greenhouse Gases is an international standard that specifies principles and requirements at the organization level for the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals. It includes requirements for the design, development, management, reporting, and verification of an organization’s GHG inventory and is the cornerstone of our carbon net zero strategy. By using this framework, we commit not only to reporting complete and accurate data consistently but also to demonstrating proven carbon reduction. This rigorous adherence to ISO-14064 – 1 Greenhouse Gases builds trust among stakeholders and helps us maintain high accountability standards.
Science-Based Targets for Measurable Carbon Reduction
Our science-based targets drive precision in our carbon reduction efforts. These targets align with the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C, making our strategies both actionable and relevant to broader environmental goals. To achieve these science-based targets, we developed a carbon reduction plan with an immediate focus on the management of energy use, the optimization of operational locations, and the education of both internal and external stakeholders. The data-driven technologies of energy management systems (EMS) allow for real-time energy monitoring, enabling rapid response and strategic adjustments that reinforce our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Major Carbon Reduction Milestones and Expanded Scope
Leveraging Employee Engagement and Innovative Tools
Employee involvement is crucial to achieving carbon net zero goals. We have introduced a business travel carbon calculator that empowers employees to consider and quantify their travel carbon footprints. This tool encourages a culture of sustainability within the organization, fostering personal responsibility and participation in achieving our sustainability goals. Additionally, we have implemented resource-saving measures, such as reducing floor space and optimizing resource allocation, which contribute to emissions reduction and instill a company-wide dedication to efficiency.
Overcoming Challenges in the Verified Carbon Data
Achieving verification to a recognized standard requires a suitable level of accuracy and evidence-based data, which presents numerous challenges in a global supply chain. The pace at which carbon data disclosure becomes mandated is slow, leading to incomplete or unsubstantiated data from some countries within our supply chain. Our roadmap to net zero accepts this challenge, engaging over 300 suppliers directly in the last reporting period to support them by presenting verifiable data. Where data is not yet available, we explain the direction of our strategy and future requirements. In the short term, we are supported by a carbon consultant to turn professional knowledge into sensible assumptions that meet the verification standard and support our continued journey to a verified carbon data set and, ultimately, net zero.
Future Plans: Research, Innovation, and Renewable Energy
Looking toward 2050, we plan to deepen our commitment to materials and processes that reduce environmental impact, from more sustainable fabric production to waste reduction initiatives. Additionally, we are exploring the opportunity to expand renewable energy infrastructure through the installation of solar panels, expanding our cloud-based IT infrastructure, and reviewing the potential benefits of near-shore production and alternative transportation solutions. These forward-looking initiatives underscore our dedication to innovation and our proactive approach to reducing environmental impact.
Key Takeaways for Companies Pursuing Carbon Net Zero
Mi Hub’s roadmap to carbon net zero offers valuable insights to assist our customers looking to implement sustainable practices. Key takeaways include the importance of science-based targets, the value of adhering to international standards like ISO 146064-1 Greenhouse Gases, and the impact of technology-driven, data-focused carbon reduction strategies. Additionally, the company’s emphasis on employee engagement and strategic partnerships highlights how a collective approach can make sustainability more attainable and impactful.
The Path Forward: Mi Hub’s Vision for a Carbon Net Zero Future
Our journey toward carbon net zero exemplifies a comprehensive, data-driven, and proactive approach to ESG. The company’s commitment to verification, the adoption of science-based targets, and the expansion of carbon reporting across its operations set a clear pathway to achieving its 2050 carbon net zero goal. As Mi Hub continues its work, its impact will likely inspire industry-wide shifts toward sustainable practices, setting new standards and encouraging other organizations to take decisive action against climate change.
Mi Hub’s roadmap to carbon net zero is a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets dedication. By setting measurable targets, investing in technologies, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, Mi Hub is paving the way for a sustainable future. As other organizations follow this example, the collective journey toward a carbon net zero world becomes not only feasible but essential.