EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.
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How we’re providing greater environmental transparency and insight
The new EY environment strategy charts our path to net zero and nature positive. Our Environment Report shares our progress. Learn more.
Evolving the global carbon ambition of the EY organisation
The actions the EY organisation has taken since FY21 have delivered progress, integration and innovation. From decarbonisation and energy efficiency to expanded reporting, enabling technology and investing in our skills and services, the legacy of the first phase of this carbon ambition will be how it has embedded sustainability in the wider growth and evolution of our organisation for the long term.
To build upon our progress to date, the firm has reviewed and evolved its carbon ambition which included goals to 2025, publishing the EY Global Environment Strategy (PDF) which meets current guidelines for net zero. This strategy includes both a near-term target to halve emissions by FY30, and deep, sustained emissions reductions over time to achieve net zero by FY50 (90% GHG emissions reduction), both against an FY19 baseline.
Following the recent launch of the EY Global Environment Strategy, the UK Firm is now in the process of revising and developing its own targets and strategic approach to ensure its actions are fully aligned to the firm’s global commitments. We plan to publish the UK Environment Strategy at the end of FY26.
Investing in the power of renewables in the UK
We began procuring renewable electricity for our UK offices in 2007 and, in 2019, we switched from natural gas to renewable biogas. But our carbon ambition drove us to seek new opportunities to create long-term sustainable value for our communities and planet.
In December 2020, Ernst & Young LLP (EY UK) announced a 10-year zero carbon Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This long-term commitment significantly contributed to the commercial viability of constructing a new solar power station project based in Norfolk, by providing certainty of revenue at a fixed price for 10 years.
Thornham Solar Farm went online in October 2021, generating Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs) enabling 100% of the UK firm’s electricity consumption to be backed by renewables certification. Our PPA contributes to the wider decarbonisation of the electricity generation sector, by adding more renewable electricity to the grid than we consume.