Companies launch net-zero best practice sharing initiative

A wide range of key Darlington companies and organizations came together to build relationships and share best practices around the Net Zero targets.

The inaugural meeting of the Darlington Employers Environment Group was initiated by the Darlington Building Society and hosted by engine manufacturer Cummins.

The event was attended by North Star Housing, architects Corstorphine and Wright, law firm BHP Law, Newlands Group, County Durham Community Foundation, Darlington Borough Council and Darlington Cares. EE and Darlington Economic Campus also pledged support for the initiative.

Cummins gave a presentation to company representatives on how sustainability initiatives at the Darlington plant contribute to the global company’s Destination Zero strategy.

The meeting was attended by senior Cummins figures, including Plant Manager Craig Thomas.

Participants were then given a tour of the site, which employs 1,900 people, to better understand how Cummins addresses sustainability.

Cummins spokesman Steve Nendick said: “Sustainability is central to our entire operation and as a large company in the North East it’s great to be able to share the thinking behind the initiatives at the Darlington plant and learn what others are doing.”

David Bews, Chief Risk Officer, Darlington Building Society, said: “Our goal in initiating this inaugural meeting was to create a group of key local employers who can come together to learn from one another and share best practice.”

“It has been great to see a major Darlington facility play such an impressive role in a global company’s drive towards net zero through innovation, change and action – all with an environmental purpose.

“Cummins demonstrates that the environment is an integral part of its business while delivering significant cost savings and commercial value. There are so many lessons we can all take away.”

Architects Corstorphine and Wright are involved in some of the region’s most notable developments, including Teesworks and the expansion of Teesside International Airport. Director Simon Crowe said: “Net zero targets must now be high on the agenda for all of us. They are at the heart of what we do, so it was valuable to get the thoughts of other companies.”

Carol Smith, operations and development manager for County Durham Community Foundation, said of the meeting: “I’m going home full of energy, with lots of ideas and the knowledge that small things can make a big difference.”

Mark Ladyman, Deputy Director for Economic Growth at Darlington Borough Council, added: “We welcome this initiative because it is important that we all do our part. The organizations at the meeting were very different, but there is common ground regarding net zero and it is valuable to be able to pick up even small ideas from others. We would definitely encourage more meetings and try to get other Darlington businesses involved.”