Sustainability
PHD are continuously striving to minimising our environmental impact. Where possible, we look for the more sustainable sources for our scaffolding equipment and are currently looking into how we can become a carbon neutral company.
thinkFOUND Scaffold Board Donation
In 2023, PHD partnered with thinkFOUND, a not-for-profit company who breathes new life into unused and discarded materials, like scaffolding boards, and crafting them into bespoke, premium furniture. So far, PHD has donated 80 weathered boards to thinkFOUND.
New Planters and Benches for SEN School and Community Centre
In 2022, PHD donated scaffolding boards for the Willmott Dixon Interiors Trainee Challenge. The scaffold boards were used as planters and benches at the Lime Academy SEN School and Norton Hall, a children and families’ Community Centre.
No Idling Campaign
In 2022, PHD Access launched our ‘No Idling’ campaign with a soft roll-out that included office posters, discussions during All Staff Company Updates, and the distribution of marketing materials to sites and yards. The campaign encouraged all company drivers to switch off their engines when parked, emphasising the importance of reducing unnecessary pollution and saving fuel. As part of our commitment to environmental responsibility, we are planning a hard roll-out in 2024.
Aligned with the Idling Action Project, the #EnginesOff campaign seeks to educate and change behaviours related to car idling, contributing to the reduction of air pollution and carbon emissions while supporting the company’s Carbon Neutral target for 2040.
World Clean Up Day
In September 2021, volunteers from PHD Access, in collaboration with BITA – the British & Irish Trading Alliance, actively participated in World Clean Up Day. Our efforts began at the Head Office in Uxbridge, where we diligently cleared litter along the pathways leading to the Grand Union Canal. Reflecting on the experience, one volunteer noted, “Some of the smaller litter items, such as bottle tops and cigarette butts, would typically go unnoticed during our daily walks.
However, upon closer inspection, we were astounded by the extent of litter along the pathways.” Recognizing that cigarette butts take up to 10 years to decompose, we have decided to display notices around the building, urging smokers to responsibly dispose of their cigarettes. The collaborative effort also fostered teamwork among individuals from different departments. In total, the dedicated volunteers filled three large bags with litter. This impactful activity heightened our awareness of litter in our immediate surroundings, prompting plans for another litter-picking day in the near future.
Supply Chain Sustainability School
Launched in 2012, the Supply Chain Sustainability School is a free virtual learning platform focused on sustainability, aiming to upskill professionals in the UK built environment sector. Covering environmental, social, and economic aspects, the curriculum addresses key issues from carbon management to combatting modern slavery. PHD Access joined in 2015, and has earned the Silver Award, reflecting our commitment to sustainable practices within the industry.
Suitable Scaffolding
We choose Layher as our primary scaffolding choice due to its intelligently engineered design, offering multifaceted advantages. One significant benefit lies in the efficient use of space, as Layher’s design allows for more equipment to be loaded onto each lorry. This not only optimizes logistical efficiency but also translates into a reduction in the number of deliveries to construction sites, subsequently curbing the associated CO2 emissions.
Layher is also lighter than regular scaffolding, with less components, meaning it reduces the risk of health to operatives lifting and installing the scaffolding. By prioritising Layher, we not only enhance operational efficiency but also underscore our commitment to sustainability and the well-being of our workforce.
Recycle, Reuse, Reduce
Where possible, we recycle all our scaffolding equipment and only purchase timber from sustainable sources. All our fleet vehicles are fuel efficient. In the office we procure our energy from renewable sources.
Electronic Plugs for Electric Cars
At our Head Office, we have taken a significant step towards promoting sustainable transportation by installing three electronic plugs dedicated to electric cars. We aim to encourage the use of electric vehicles among our employees and visitors. This not only contributes to a reduction in carbon emissions but also underscores our dedication to fostering a more sustainable and eco-friendlier workplace. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, our investment in such infrastructure reflects our proactive approach to supporting the transition to cleaner and more sustainable mobility solutions.
Carbon Neutral Plan for 2040
We aim to be a carbon neutral company by 2040. We recognise that by offsetting our carbon emissions we will be playing a huge part on the sustainability of the planet and reducing our carbon footprint.
ISO 9001/14001/45001 Certified Company
PHD Access is proud to be an ISO 9001/14001/45001 certified company, showcasing our commitment to quality management, environmental responsibility, and occupational health and safety. These certifications affirm our dedication to consistently delivering high standards of products and services while minimizing our environmental impact and ensuring a safe workplace for our team.
Field View
PHD Access has successfully transitioned to a paper-free approach on construction sites by incorporating Field View into our operations. Leveraging the features of this construction management software, we have streamlined communication, enhanced collaboration, and effectively managed project information without the need for traditional paper documentation.
By utilising Field View, we have significantly reduced our reliance on paper on construction sites, marking a substantial step towards environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. This transition not only aligns with our commitment to cutting-edge technology but also demonstrates our dedication to minimising our environmental impact.
Hybrid vehicles and public transport
In a proactive commitment to environmental sustainability, we are currently in the process of acquiring hybrid and electric company cars and vehicles for our staff. By introducing hybrid and electric vehicles into our company fleet, we aim to make a substantial impact on lowering emissions and promoting cleaner modes of commuting.
Furthermore, we actively encourage all our operatives to explore alternative, sustainable transportation options. Through internal reward schemes, we incentivize the use of public transport or cycling to and from work.
