Drax has unveiled a new sustainability framework aimed at addressing its environmental impact and supporting local communities while advancing the company’s global sustainability targets.
The framework, developed after consultations with scientists, academics, employees, investors and environmental NGOs, sets out 26 specific, measurable and time-bound targets. These cover key areas including emissions reduction, forestry, biodiversity, water efficiency and community support.
A central objective is to achieve net zero emissions across its entire value chain by the end of 2040. This involves measures to decarbonise supply chains, enhance the low-carbon delivery of biomass fibre to its power station and shift towards renewable energy sources for its pellet plants.
Other initiatives include community programmes offering STEM education and green skills training in under-served areas; the introduction of automated digital data gathering to boost supply chain governance and traceability; and the implementation of nature-positive action plans at company sites and in biomass sourcing regions to support biodiversity by 2030. The framework also explores long-term carbon removal options through collaborative projects.
Speaking on the new strategy, Drax Group Chief Sustainability Officer Miguel Veiga-Pestana said, “Our new sustainability framework signals a significant change in the way Drax manages its impact on the environment, communities and nature. Throughout the process we have listened to and learned much from the wide variety of stakeholders who have helped us develop this plan, which will be key to helping to ensure Drax can provide renewable biomass power generation as sustainably and responsibly as possible for years to come.”
He added, “This launch is not the end of the process, however, it is just the start. In the coming months and years, the climate crisis will become more acute. The need for action will become greater, and the role of carbon removals will become even more important. That means we will have to work even harder to aim to ensure our operations help reduce humanity’s impact on the planet.”
