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ESG Reports
ESG Report 2023
Submitted: Jan 06, 2024
Table of Contents
- About SkootEco
- 1.1 Company Profile
- 1.2 Reporting Methodology
- Governance and Transparency
- 2.1 Leadership and Governance
- 2.2 Stakeholder Engagement
- 2.3 Ethics and Compliance
- Environmental Impact
- 3.1 Carbon Footprint
- 3.2 Carbon Credit and Offset Projects
- 3.3 Resource Management
- 3.4 Environmental Impact of Client Engagements
- Social Impact
- 4.1 Workforce Diversity and Inclusion
- 4.2 Employee Wellbeing
- 4.3 Community Engagement
- 4.4 Human Rights and Fair Labour Practices
- Economic Impact
- 5.1 Financial Performance
- 5.2 Innovation and Technology
- B Corp Commitment
- 6.1 B Corp Certification Journey
- 6.2 B Corp Impact Assessment
- Future Targets and Commitments
- 7.1 Short-Term Targets (1-2 Years)
- 7.2 Long-Term Vision (3-5 Years)
Executive Summary
In 2023, SkootEco has made significant strides in advancing our mission to democratise Net Zero and empower organisations and individuals to take meaningful climate action. As a certified B Corporation, we have expanded our focus on the hospitality industry, enabling restaurants, hotels, and events to engage their clients in sustainability journeys through eco-contributions. We have also introduced new environmental initiatives, including plastic removal projects, alongside our established tree planting and carbon offsetting programmes.
This year marks a period of substantial growth, with a 579% increase in revenue compared to 2022, reaching £280.8k. We have maintained our commitment to zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions through our remote-first operating model, while carefully managing our Scope 3 emissions to just 12.00 tCO₂e (1.50 tCO₂e per employee).
Our environmental impact has extended far beyond our own operations, with 537,536 trees planted, 1,600 instances of plastic removal, and 15,600 tonnes of carbon offset through renewable energy projects. We have also facilitated client commitments to counter 170,000 tonnes of carbon by 2027.
We have expanded our geographical reach, establishing new operations in the United States and Switzerland, while building partnerships with major organisations including Oracle, Good Energy, Addison Lee, Coventry Building Society Arena, and D.ream International with brands such as Amazonico and Coya.
This report outlines our achievements, challenges, and future commitments, reflecting our dedication to transparency, continuous improvement, and the creation of a more sustainable future.
1. About SkootEco
1.1 Company Profile
Business Overview
Founded in 2019, SkootEco is a leading climate change platform dedicated to assisting businesses, individuals, and communities in achieving their sustainability goals and progressing towards net-zero emissions. As a certified B Corporation, we offer a range of tailored services designed to integrate sustainability into various sectors, transforming environmental challenges into growth opportunities.
In 2023, our primary focus has been on the hospitality industry, working with restaurants, hotels, and events to engage their clients in sustainability journeys through eco-contributions. Through our platform, we enable these organisations to collect environmental contributions and direct them towards impactful climate action projects, allowing diners and guests to counter their meal's carbon footprint.
Website: skoot.eco
Mission and Vision
Our mission is to empower organisations and individuals to take meaningful climate action today, fostering a cleaner and greener world. We envision a future where sustainable practices are embedded in every aspect of business and daily life, leading to a positive climate impact and enhanced social well-being.
In 2023, we have embraced the mission of democratising Net Zero, making it accessible and understandable for everyone through education and simplified sustainability tools.
Key Services and Sectors
SkootEco's services in 2023 include:
- Carbon Countering: Enabling hospitality businesses and events to counter their carbon emissions through verified projects
- Tree Planting Initiatives: Facilitating large-scale reforestation projects through client contributions
- Plastic Removal: Our newly introduced initiative to combat plastic pollution, particularly in marine environments
- Sustainability Education: Providing resources to help clients and their customers understand climate impacts and solutions
- Client Engagement Tools: Digital solutions that allow businesses to involve their customers in sustainability initiatives
Our primary sectors of focus in 2023 are:
- Restaurants and Food Service
- Hotels and Accommodation
- Events and Festivals
- Retail and Consumer Goods
Geographical Reach
Headquartered in the London Borough of Hackney, United Kingdom, SkootEco has expanded its operations in 2023 to include the United States and Switzerland. This expansion marks an important milestone in our growth trajectory, allowing us to serve clients across multiple international markets.
Organisational Structure
SkootEco maintains a dynamic organisational structure in 2023, with a team of 8 professionals (7 full-time and 1 part-time) working remotely. Our leadership team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing sustainability and corporate responsibility while maintaining our focus on hospitality sector engagement.
1.2 Reporting Methodology
Reporting Period
This sustainability report covers SkootEco's environmental, social, and governance performance for the period January 1 to December 31, 2023.
Reporting Standards and Frameworks Used
This report has been prepared in accordance with:
- Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards: Core option
- Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) framework for Professional Services
- Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations
- UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) alignment
Data Collection Methods
Our data collection process includes:
- Internal surveys and interviews with team members
- Digital monitoring of resource consumption
- Comprehensive GHG emissions calculation using the GHG Protocol
- Documentation review and analysis
Scope of Reporting
This report covers SkootEco's direct operations and value chain impacts, including:
- Direct environmental impacts of our remote operations
- Indirect environmental impacts through our supply chain
- Social impacts on employees, clients, and communities
- Governance practices and ethical standards
- Economic contributions and innovations
Materiality Assessment Process
We have conducted a comprehensive materiality assessment to identify the sustainability topics most relevant to our business and stakeholders. The process involved:
- Industry benchmarking and best practice analysis
- Internal leadership workshops
- Prioritisation based on impact significance and stakeholder importance
2. Governance and Transparency
2.1 Leadership and Governance
Board Composition
SkootEco's Board of Directors comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds in accountancy, business management, technology, marketing, and PR. Our board structure ensures balanced representation and expertise to guide our strategic direction.
Board Members:
- Ashish Devi-King, Chairperson – Over 20 years in M&A and corporate finance from public companies, Credit Suisse and Deloitte. Today, runs the tech specialist investment advisory firm that he founded
- Greg Gormley, CEO – Over 35 years of experience in the technology industry, including co-founding Bink, a digital aggregator with Barclays and Lloyds. Accountant and mentor to multiple startup businesses
- Mark Stringer, CMO – 30-year marketing career developing and launching brands and companies. Experience with blue-chip, entertainment, and restaurant brands, including Red Bull, Nando's, and Virgin.
- Miles Power, Non-Executive Director – Owner and founder of Bibbeo Ltd and family wealth office US-based ESG investor
- Ruby Khnom, Board Advisor – Technology lawyer at Pinsent Masons, trained at Clifford Chance, advises technology businesses from start-up to large institutional companies
Governance Structure
Our governance framework is designed to promote accountability, transparency, and effective decision-making. Key elements include:
- Board oversight of sustainability performance
- Executive leadership team responsible for implementation
- Cross-functional working groups for specific sustainability initiatives
- Regular reporting and performance reviews
Sustainability Leadership
Sustainability governance at SkootEco is led by our CEO and supported by dedicated sustainability champions across the organisation. Our sustainability committee meets quarterly to review progress, address challenges, and drive continuous improvement.
Ethical Decision-Making Processes
We have established robust processes for ethical decision-making, including:
- Ethics guidelines integrated into our decision frameworks
- Consideration of environmental and social impacts in all major decisions
- Consultation with affected stakeholders
- Transparency in reasoning and outcomes
2.2 Stakeholder Engagement
Key Stakeholder Groups
Our key stakeholders include:
- Employees and contractors
- Clients and partners
- Sustainability peers and industry networks
- B Corp community
- Local communities
- Suppliers and service providers
- Environmental and social advocacy groups
Engagement Methods
We engage with our stakeholders through:
- Regular surveys and feedback mechanisms
- One-on-one consultations and interviews
- Industry forums and collaborative initiatives
- Digital communication platforms
- Community events and partnerships
Stakeholder Feedback Mechanisms
We have implemented various channels for stakeholder feedback:
- Weekly pulse check for employees
- Client satisfaction assessments
- Community engagement evaluations
- Open-door policy for direct communication
Materiality Matrix
Our materiality matrix identifies and prioritises sustainability topics based on their importance to stakeholders and their significance to our business. Top material issues include:
- Climate change mitigation and adaptation
- Ethical business practices
- Employee wellbeing and development
- Client impact and responsible service delivery
- Digital sustainability and responsible technology use
2.3 Ethics and Compliance
Ethical Business Practices
SkootEco is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct. Our ethics framework includes:
- Code of Ethics and Business Conduct
- Regular ethics training for all team members
- Ethics consideration in client selection and project scoping
- Transparent reporting on ethical performance
Anti-Corruption Measures
Our anti-corruption policies and procedures include:
- Zero tolerance for bribery and corruption
- Due diligence processes for partners and suppliers
- Gift and hospitality guidelines
- Regular training and awareness raising
Whistleblowing Mechanisms
We have established confidential channels for reporting ethical concerns:
- Anonymous reporting system
- Non-retaliation policy for whistleblowers
- Independent investigation process
- Regular reporting on whistleblowing cases (with appropriate confidentiality)
Compliance with Regulations
SkootEco maintains rigorous compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including:
- Environmental legislation
- Employment and labour laws
- Data protection and privacy regulations
- Financial and tax requirements
- Industry-specific standards
Ethical Supply Chain Management
Our approach to ethical supply chain management includes:
- Supplier Code of Conduct
- Environmental and social screening criteria
- Preference for B Corp and sustainable suppliers
- Regular supplier performance reviews
- Capacity building for key suppliers
3. Environmental Impact
3.1 Carbon Footprint
Total Organisational Carbon Emissions
In 2023, SkootEco's total greenhouse gas emissions amount to 12.00 tCO₂e, a significant reduction from 26.24 tCO₂e in 2022. As a remote-first organisation since our founding, we have maintained our commitment to minimising direct environmental impacts.
Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions Breakdown
Our emissions profile reflects our remote operating model:
Scope 3 Emissions Breakdown
Business Travel Emissions Detail
- 3 return long-haul flights: 6.64 tCO₂e
- 11 return train journeys: 0.67 tCO₂e
- 10 hotel nights: 0.15 tCO₂e
Carbon Intensity Metrics
Our carbon intensity metrics provide context for our emissions:
- Per employee: 1.50 tCO₂e per employee, slightly higher than the 1.46 tCO₂e per employee in 2022
- Per revenue: 0.0000427 tonnes CO₂e per £1 revenue, a significant improvement from 0.000637 tonnes CO₂e per £1 revenue in 2022, reflecting our increased revenue efficiency
Emissions Reduction Strategies
We have implemented various strategies to minimise our carbon footprint:
- Remote-First Model: Operating as a fully remote company since inception, eliminating emissions associated with office buildings and daily commuting for most employees
- Digital-First Approach: Utilising digital solutions to minimise physical resource consumption
- Travel Policy: Prioritising virtual meetings over in-person meetings when possible and economy-class travel when necessary
- Supplier Selection: Choosing suppliers with strong environmental credentials and sustainability commitments
- Technology Optimisation: Regular reviewing of our digital footprint to minimise the environmental impact of our cloud services and digital tools
3.2 Carbon Credit and Offset Projects
Portfolio of Carbon Credit Projects
While our primary focus is on reducing our emissions, we recognise the importance of offsetting unavoidable emissions. In 2023, we have invested in 15,600 tonnes of carbon offsets through renewable energy projects, a significant increase from the 5,000 tonnes in 2022, alongside our tree planting and plastic removal initiatives.
Our carbon offset portfolio has expanded in 2023 to include:
- Renewable energy projects in developing countries
- Community-focused initiatives that provide both environmental and social benefits
- Projects verified under recognised international standards
Through partnerships
with major organisations including Oracle, Good Energy, Addison Lee, Coventry Building Society Arena, and D.ream International, we have been able to significantly scale the impact of our carbon offset projects in 2023.
Verification Standards
All carbon offset projects in our portfolio are verified under recognised standards, including:
- Gold Standard
- Verified Carbon Standard (Verra)
- American Carbon Registry
- UK Woodland Carbon Code
Impact Measurement
We measure the impact of our offset projects through:
- Quantified emissions reductions
- Contribution to climate resilience
- Alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Long-term sustainability of project outcomes
Community and Biodiversity Benefits
Beyond carbon reductions, our offset projects deliver co-benefits including:
- Local community economic development
- Biodiversity conservation and enhancement
- Health and wellness improvements
- Education and capacity building
- Gender equality advancement
3.3 Resource Management
Energy Consumption
As a fully remote organisation, SkootEco has:
- Zero direct energy consumption from company-owned or controlled facilities
- No purchased electricity, heating, cooling, or steam for company operations
We do monitor and work to minimise the estimated energy consumption associated with:
- Employee Home Working: We estimate our employees' home working energy usage to be approximately 12 kWh per employee per day
- Cloud Computing: Our digital infrastructure consumes an estimated 3.2 kWh per user per day
- Video Conferencing: Approximately 100 hours of video conferencing per month
We support energy-efficient home working practices through guidelines for energy-efficient home office setups and recommendations for renewable energy providers.
Water Usage
As a fully remote company without physical offices, SkootEco maintains:
- Zero direct water consumption from company operations
- No water discharges from company activities
We track and monitor these metrics, committed to maintaining zero direct water consumption through our remote-first approach. We provide guidance to our team on water conservation practices for home offices and awareness of virtual water footprints in digital activities.
Waste Management
Our remote operating model results in:
- Zero direct waste from company-owned facilities
- No hazardous waste from company operations
We estimate:
- Remote worker waste generation: Approximately 120 kg per employee per year
- Waste recycling rate: Approximately 30% (based on UK averages)
We implement digital-first policies, equipment lifecycle management, and responsible disposal guidelines to minimise waste generation throughout our value chain.
Recycling and Circular Economy Initiatives
Our circular economy initiatives include:
- IT equipment refurbishment and donation programme
- Digital-first documentation to minimise paper usage
- Sustainable procurement focusing on durable, repairable products
- Employee education on circular economy principles
- Guidance for responsible disposal and recycling
3.4 Environmental Impact of Client Engagements
Client Sustainability Initiatives
In 2023, SkootEco has focused on enabling hospitality businesses to implement sustainability initiatives through our platform. Key achievements include:
- Tree Planting: Facilitated the planting of 537,536 trees through client eco-contributions, a 61% increase from the 333,202 trees planted in 2022
- Plastic Removal: Enabled the removal of 1,600 instances of plastic from the environment through our newly introduced plastic removal initiative
- Carbon Offsetting: Facilitated 15,600 tonnes of carbon offset through renewable energy projects, a significant increase from 5,000 tonnes in 2022
- Future Commitments: Helped clients make commitments to counter 170,000 tonnes of carbon by 2027
Environmental Education and Awareness
A core focus of our work in 2023 has been democratising Net Zero through education:
- Client Education: Provided resources and tools to help hospitality businesses understand their environmental impact and communicate sustainability initiatives to customers
- Consumer Awareness: Developed digital tools that engage consumers in sustainability journeys, making climate action more accessible and understandable
- Impact Visualisation: Created innovative ways to help stakeholders visualise the impact of their contributions, increasing engagement and motivation
Technology Solutions for Sustainability
We have developed and implemented various technology solutions to enhance sustainability outcomes:
- Customer-facing carbon calculators
- Sustainability impact tracking dashboards
- Digital platforms for engaging consumers in eco-contributions
- Environmental impact assessment tools
4. Social Impact
4.1 Workforce Diversity and Inclusion
At SkootEco, we recognise that diversity strengthens our ability to address global sustainability challenges. With a team of 8 employees, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and flexible work environment that reflects a broad range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.
Our workforce demographics follow similar patterns to our 2022 commitment to diversity and inclusion, emphasising our consistent approach to creating an inclusive workplace.
4.2 Employee Wellbeing
SkootEco prioritises employee well-being, satisfaction, and development, ensuring that every team member feels supported both professionally and personally.
Our employee well-being initiatives in 2023 include the same comprehensive benefits package offered in 2022, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to employee welfare.
4.3 Community Engagement
In 2023, SkootEco has continued to develop partnerships and initiatives to create positive community impact, with a focus on environmental restoration and sustainability education.
4.4 Human Rights and Fair Labour Practices
SkootEco maintains its commitment to upholding the highest labour standards, human rights protections, and ethical practices across its operations and supply chain throughout 2023, following the same principles and practices outlined in our 2022 approach.
5. Economic Impact
5.1 Financial Performance
Economic Value Generated and Distributed
SkootEco has demonstrated remarkable financial growth in 2023, with revenue increasing by 579% compared to 2022, reaching £280.8k. This substantial growth reflects the increasing demand for our sustainability services in the hospitality sector and our successful partnerships with major organisations.
Distribution of Economic Value:
- Employee Wages and Benefits: £278,195, representing a significant investment in our team despite a reduction from £619,605 in 2022 due to our streamlined workforce
- Operational Costs: £452k, covering core business expenses including technology infrastructure, marketing, and service delivery, an 8.6% increase from £416k in 2022
- Community Contributions: £80k directed towards community initiatives, representing a substantial 35-fold increase from £2,273 in 2022
- Investment Received: £1,379,811, enabling us to scale our impact and develop new environmental initiatives, almost double the £700,694 raised in 2022
Investment in Sustainability
Sustainability remains at the heart of SkootEco's financial strategy in 2023. We have facilitated significant environmental impact through our platform:
- 537,536 trees planted, a 61% increase from 333,202 in 2022
- 1,600 instances of plastic removed from the environment through our newly introduced initiative
- 15,600 tonnes of carbon offset through renewable energy projects, more than tripling the 5,000 tonnes in 2022
- Commitments secured for countering 170,000 tonnes of carbon by 2027
Economic Contributions to Communities
SkootEco actively supports communities through financial and strategic contributions, including:
- Job Creation: We have maintained a team of 8 professionals in 2023, optimised from 18 in 2022 for greater efficiency
- Local Supplier Engagement: Prioritising local and sustainable suppliers
- Environmental Restoration Projects: Directing resources to high-impact environmental initiatives
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with major organisations including Oracle, Good Energy, Addison Lee, Coventry Building Society Arena, and D.ream International
Financial Resilience
To ensure long-term financial stability, SkootEco has implemented:
- Revenue Diversification: Expanding from our initial focus to include various services within the hospitality sector
- Risk Management Strategies: A balanced financial approach to ensure stability
- International Expansion: Establishing operations in the United States and Switzerland to diversify market presence
5.2 Innovation and Technology
R&D Investments
Innovation remains a core pillar of SkootEco's strategy in 2023, with £372,162 allocated to research and development, representing a slight decrease from £435,438 in 2022 but still a significant investment relative to our size. Our R&D focus includes:
- Development of our hospitality-focused sustainability platform
- Creation of user-friendly environmental impact calculators
- Design of consumer engagement tools for climate action
- Introduction of our plastic removal initiative alongside existing tree planting programmes
Technology for Social and Environmental Impact
SkootEco leverages technology to drive both environmental and social benefits:
- Eco-contribution Platforms: Enabling businesses to collect and direct environmental contributions
- Impact Visualisation Tools: Helping stakeholders understand the tangible results of their actions
- Sustainability Education Resources: Making climate science and solutions accessible to wider audiences
Industry Recognition
Our technological innovation and impact have been recognised in 2023 through:
- Inclusion in the Fintech 50 top companies
- Winner of the Global Good Awards: Best Start-up Enterprise 2023
6. B Corp Commitment
6.1 B Corp Certification Journey
SkootEco maintains its status as a certified B Corporation throughout 2023, continuing to uphold the high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability that the certification represents.
Our B Corp journey in 2023 builds upon our initial certification in 2022, when we earned our "Best for the World" recognition in the Governance category.
6.2 B Corp Impact Assessment
We continue to align our practices with the B Impact Assessment framework throughout 2023, working to maintain and improve our performance across all impact areas.
7. Future Targets and Commitments
7.1 Short-Term Targets (1-2 Years)
As we conclude 2023, SkootEco establishes the following short-term targets for 2024-2025:
Environmental Targets:
- Maintain zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions through our remote-first model
- Strengthen our sustainable procurement policy to address Scope 3 emissions
- Expand our environmental initiatives to include additional impact areas
- Increase the volume of carbon offset and tree planting facilitated through our platform
Social Targets:
- Continue to invest in community impact carbon credits
- Maintain
our commitment to donate over 1% of revenue to charitable causes
- Expand corporate partnerships to facilitate broader environmental impact
Governance Targets:
- Continue to strengthen our B Corp performance
- Enhance transparency in sustainability reporting
7.2 Long-Term Vision (3-5 Years)
Our long-term sustainability vision includes:
Strategic Sustainability Roadmap:
- Further develop our platform to enable more businesses to engage in climate action
- Extend our impact across additional sectors beyond hospitality
- Maintain carbon neutrality through a combination of reduction strategies and verified carbon offsets
- Continue international expansion beyond the US and Switzerland
Transformative Goals:
- Significantly scale our environmental impact through our platform
- Enable client organisations to collectively reduce emissions at scale
- Democratise Net Zero by making climate action accessible to businesses of all sizes
Commitment to Continuous Improvement:
- Annual sustainability reporting and transparent disclosure
- Ongoing stakeholder engagement to inform our approach
- Investment in sustainability innovation and capabilities
This report represents SkootEco's commitment to transparency and continuous improvement in our sustainability journey during 2023. We welcome feedback and engagement from all stakeholders as we work toward a more sustainable future.
© 2023 SkootEco Ltd. | skoot.eco
Contact Details
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