Our approach and standards
At Equans, we are committed to minimising our environmental impact across all operations where we have control. We operate in accordance with the internationally recognised ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 standards, which provide a robust framework for managing and continuously improving our environmental and energy performance. Our Energy & Environment Policy clearly sets out our approach, emphasising transparency and accountability through a comprehensive Environmental Management System (EMS) with well-defined objectives.
To guide our climate action, we follow the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) Greenhouse Gas Management Hierarchy. This approach prioritises eliminating emissions first, then substituting with renewable and low-carbon solutions, reducing emissions where possible, and only offsetting residual emissions as a last step:
- Eliminate - Influence decisions to prevent emissions at the source.
- Reduce - Identify opportunities for real reductions in carbon and energy use.
- Substitute - Adopt and enable renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.
- Compensate - Offset any remaining emissions through verified mechanisms.
Impact Manifesto
Our environmental commitments and targets are embedded within our IMPACT Manifesto.
Waste and circular economy
Equans places a strong emphasis on the transition towards a circular economy. This approach is central to achieving the environmental objectives of ‘Our Planet’ global ESG strategy - ensuring that waste minimisation and decarbonisation go hand-in-hand as part of our broader sustainability commitment. Specifically:
Legal waste compliance
Managing waste responsibly is a critical legal and environmental responsibility. In line with Duty of Care regulations, Equans ensures strict oversight of waste handling, from site management to collection and disposal - maintaining accurate waste records and implementing Simpler Recycling across all our sites.
Biodiversity commitment
Why biodiversity?
Equans recognises that biodiversity and healthy ecosystems are vital assets for the communities in which we operate, providing essential services such as clean air and water, pollination, wastewater treatment and natural pest control. Vegetation also plays an important role in climate resilience and adaptation, helping mitigate flooding and other impacts. Beyond ecology, biodiversity enriches communities culturally, economically, and socially.
Our focus
Our operational priority is to mitigate any negative impacts on biodiversity by implementing Biodiversity Action Plans where risks are identified. We actively seek opportunities to enhance biodiversity locally, whether through volunteering initiatives or direct environmental enhancements.
Since 2019, our annual Equans Tree Fund has contributed to local reforestation and biodiversity improvement projects with over 15,000 trees planted by Equans employees, clients and partners.
Operational requirements
All contracts must complete a Biodiversity Action Plan which outlines necessary protections for native species and controls on invasive species, where they may be present. These plans are then integrated into our Aspects & Impacts process within the AIMS system for ongoing monitoring.
Fleet electrification
Equans has a large vehicle fleet of cars and vans which are necessary to support the work we undertake for our clients. The emissions from these vehicles are the largest part of our direct carbon footprint. We are therefore committed to upgrading our fleet to electric vehicles.
As of April 2026, over 46% of our fleet including 91% of company cars have transitioned to electric vehicles.
We actively promote sustainable travel within the business by encouraging thoughtful planning, leveraging technology to reduce unnecessary travel, and choosing low-impact travel options to protect climate, air quality, and community health.
Water stewardship and climate resilience
Equans is actively reducing water consumption and enhancing water quality in the communities where we operate. We work with our clients and educate our operatives to minimise and monitor potable and abstracted water usage.
Carbon
Equans is a leader in the transition to a low carbon economy and is acting decisively to decarbonise its own operations. We have also developed a number of service propositions to support our key stakeholders on their journeys to net zero.
Explore our Net Zero journey and how we are helping our clients accelerate theirs
Carbon Shift
Addressing climate change risks
The UK is experiencing more frequent extreme weather events linked to climate change.
We support our clients with climate risk assessments and help organisations improve their resilience through informed climate adaptation strategies.
Our expertise
Equans supports businesses, communities and the public sector by mobilising its expertise to provide low-carbon energy solutions, offer cutting-edge technical and FM services and transformative regeneration across the UK & Ireland.
