Big Four firm Deloitte, looks to lead the industry in making working sustainably the default manner of doing business by including 'Clause Zero' – in client engagement letters and contracts this year
'Clause Zero' is designed to support sustainable client delivery and is part of a range of measures – from introducing climate learning across the global network to reducing energy consumption across UK offices
The clause will encourage and support Deloitte and its clients to deliver projects in a more sustainable way – for example by opting for digital options such as virtual meetings and using online tools to help make low carbon choices when travel is required. It is designed to place sustainability at the forefront of every project, from initial pursuit through to completion.
In recent months, teams across all of Deloitte's business lines have been given access to tools such as a web-based travel emissions calculator, as well as checklists designed to support sustainable decision-making on the delivery of projects.
"As more organizations adopt net zero targets we're seeing increasing demand from our clients and our people for us to work more sustainably," said Deloitte CEO Richard Houston. "Clause Zero will help us to open a dialogue with our clients on the path to net zero and to challenge old ways of working so that – together – we can put sustainable delivery at the heart of all commercial activity. Our aim is to embed Clause Zero into client pitches, contracts and throughout the engagement lifecycle."
Transforming ways of working
The sustainable delivery clause is part of Deloitte's WorldClimate initiative and the latest tangible step to transform the firm's business and empower its people to help create a better future.
Deloitte has also pledged to source 100% renewable electricity for office buildings, convert its car fleet to plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, and ensure that more than two-thirds of suppliers have set their own science-based carbon reduction targets.
Energy savings donated to Scope
Measures Deloitte is taking to reduce energy consumption – such as reducing the office temperature range across the UK by 2 degrees Celsius – combined with the firm's traditional closure of UK offices during the quieter festive period, have led to cost savings in December.
Houston added, "Given this is such a difficult time of year for many people, we've decided to donate the savings from these measures in December to our charity partner Scope. Disabled people are among those hardest hit by the cost-of-living crisis, and demand for Scope's services has dramatically increased – as have their costs. We hope that our donation will make a difference at a time when their support is needed most."
"Life costs more if you are disabled and disabled people often consume more energy to charge essential equipment and keep their homes warm due to their condition. So, with escalating costs, this winter is a particular threat," said Mark Hodgkinson, Chief Executive at disability equality charity Scope.
"It's therefore great that Deloitte have cut back on their energy consumption in their own offices and are donating these savings to support our helpline, where disabled people are able to access advice and support at this critical time."
SOURCE: Deloitte
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