As a business that serves millions of people across every sector of society, Compass recognises the impact its workforce can have as individuals and sees its partnership with Giki as an opportunity to democratise climate action, by providing all its colleagues with free access to Giki’s platform and challenge-based programme.
The latest IPCC report stated that ‘10% of the highest-emitting households contribute 40-45% of global greenhouse gas emissions and 50% of the lowest-emitting households (including small islands communities) contribute less than 15% of overall greenhouse gases’.
Carolyn Ball, director for delivery of net zero at Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “Empowering people with knowledge so they know how to make a difference every day, has never been more important.
“Everyone’s choices matter, and it’s in this spirit that we want to come together as a community - not just as a corporate. Working with Giki gives us the opportunity to do this in an inclusive and measurable way, demystifying climate action so everyone feels empowered to act.”
Once people have answered some simple questions about their lifestyle, their carbon footprint is calculated and the Giki platform then provides up to 150 practical steps that users can take to reduce their carbon footprint.
To mark Stop Food Waste Day (26th April) a specific Waste Less Challenge has also been created providing steps to reduce food waste.
Commenting on the new partnership Jo Hand, Giki co-founder, added: “Building sustainable behaviours at home and at work is key to people taking climate action and helping us all move towards net zero.
“As many people face a cost of living crisis, carbon cutting steps, including energy savings and waste reduction, frequently help with cost savings too. We are really looking forward to working with Compass and their employees, because while one step is progress a large community taking action drives real change.”
The platform has already been successfully trialled within two of Compass’ six sectors, which has seen a small group (under 50 people) already achieving savings of 5,500kg CO2e - equating to carbon emitted from 11 short haul return flights; 221,368 litres of water - equating to 3700 showers; and 4016m2 land (i.e. avoiding usage change) - the equivalent of 20 tennis courts.