WSH, the parent company of leading hospitality brands including BaxterStorey, Mere, HIX, Benugo and Searcys has passed a landmark resolution, committing to procure 100% of the business’ direct purchased electricity from renewable sources by 2020.
WSH’s pledge demonstrates the business’ commitment to furthering the aspirational goal of decarbonising the UK by reducing fossil fuel emissions and increasing demand for home grown renewable energy.
In 2008 the UK Government passed the Climate Change Act, which sets up a framework for the UK to achieve its long-term goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to ensure steps are taken towards adapting to the impact of climate change. The UK is legally bound to provide for 15% of its energy needs, including 30% of electricity, 12% of heat, and 10% of transport fuel, from renewable sources by 2020. On its current course, the UK will fail to achieve this target.
Mike Hanson, Head of Sustainable Business at WSH, said: “As the UK’s largest independent hospitality provider we have a responsibility to continuously develop new ways of reducing our impacts whilst maximising opportunities. We do this by being innovative and brave, demonstrating our commitment to making our business a sustainable business.
“WSH will initially be procuring renewable electricity sourced from suppliers, taking the form of green electricity contracts with utilities providers as current contracts expire. All new contracts will be sourcing renewable electricity from the outset. This commitment is an amazing step for us, one which I hope will encourage similar actions from others in our sector.”
Matthew Thomas, Managing Director at Searcys, said: “Using renewable resources is a moral and business imperative for any company. At Searcys, we recognise the responsibility that we have in making a positive impact on our community and the environment. Our company pledges fully support this belief. We are committed to sourcing the best ingredients we can, adhering to all sustainable business practices, including procuring electricity from renewable sources, as well as recruiting and retaining the best industry professionals.”
BENUGO founder, Ben Warner said: “We welcome this exciting innovation as it illustrates BENUGO’S commitment to reducing our overall impact wherever possible.”