1. Transitioning to a Greener Energy Mix

One of the most significant steps we have taken in recent years is choosing energy suppliers that align with our commitment to sustainability. By selecting suppliers with a lower carbon footprint and a higher renewable share, we have reduced the emissions associated with our electricity consumption.

Key highlights of our energy transition

• 2011–2014: Coal and natural gas dominated the electricity mix, which meant higher emissions. Renewables increased gradually across this period, but fossil fuels still made up most of the supply.
• 2015–2019: This period marked a major shift. Renewables became the clear majority of our electricity supply and emissions fell sharply. By 2019, coal and gas had been phased out of our recorded mix.
• 2020–2023: Our mix remained significantly lower carbon overall, although there were some years where a small share of fossil fuels appeared again. Over this period, the balance between renewables and nuclear changed year to year.
• 2024–2025: Our electricity supply for 2024 and 2025 is confirmed as 100% renewable, with the chart showing zero contribution from coal, gas, nuclear and other sources.
• 2026–2028 (contracted): We have locked in 100% renewable electricity through to 2028 under our supplier arrangements. Because these years are still in the future, they are shown as hashed bars to indicate contracted supply rather than completed historical performance.

2. Embracing Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Another important step in our sustainability journey has been the gradual adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) within our company fleet. This effort supports our commitment to reducing emissions, lowering fuel consumption, and setting an example for greener business practices.

What we’ve achieved so far:

• Since 2017, we have introduced six electric vehicles into our fleet.
• Currently, three electric vehicles remain in active use within the company.

The move to EVs represents a significant environmental benefit and offers long-term cost savings for our company. While we don't have a specific timeline for achieving a fully electric fleet, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels for transportation is a key part of our overall strategy to lower carbon emissions and embrace a more sustainable future.

3. Trends in Purchasing

Analysis of Paper Purchasing Trends (2011-2024):

• 2011-2014: In the early years, most customers opted for non-recycled paper, with over 80% of purchases coming from non-recycled sources. However, demand for sustainable options began to grow, as 100% recycled paper increased from 3.6% in 2011 to 10.6% in 2014 Carbon-neutral paper was minimal, representing just 0.1-0.3% of orders.
• 2015-2019: This period marked a key turning point, as recycled paper rose to 20.1% of total orders by 2015 and over 55% by 2019. Carbon-neutral paper also saw growth, from 0.2% in 2015 to 0.9% in 2019, driven by a broader selection of sustainable options.
• 2020-2021: Sustainability continued to be a priority, with 72.17% of paper purchases being 100% recycled in 2021, the highest proportion yet. Carbon-neutral paper remained steady at 0.9%.
• 2022-2023: These years saw a slight dip in recycled paper purchases, from 68% in 2022 to 62.5% in 2023, alongside a surge in demand for carbon-neutral paper, rising from 2.9% to 20.9%. Non-recycled paper orders continued to fall, reaching a record low of 16.6% in 2023.
• 2024: As of August 30, 2024, non-recycled paper is projected to hit its lowest level at 13%, while carbon-neutral paper reaches an all-time high at 25%. With an estimated 62% of total purchases as 100% recycled, recycled and carbon-neutral paper combined make up 87% of all paper purchased. To meet this demand, stock levels of recycled and carbon-neutral paper have been increased to over 1,000 reams. Additionally, plastic packaging for colored paper has nearly been eliminated, reinforcing our sustainability efforts.

4. Preloved Initiative Savings

Since starting our Preloved Initiative, we have helped our customers save significantly by purchasing high-quality used products. In 2023 alone, customers saved £922.25, and as of August 31 2024, the cumulative savings have reached £5,305.29.

This initiative provides a cost-effective solution for customers while promoting sustainability. By repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded, we reduce waste and contribute to a circular economy. Products that are not in a resellable condition are donated to film schools or responsibly disposed of, ensuring zero waste goes to landfill.

5. Waste Levels and Recycling (2017–2024)

• 2017-2019: During these years, general waste and recycling volumes increased in line with growing demand from the UK Film and TV industry. By 2019, recycling accounted for 69.1% of total waste, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.
• 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic brought film production to a halt, significantly reducing our waste generation. General waste dropped to 0.8 tonnes, while recycling represented 69% of the total waste.
• 2021-2022: As productions resumed, waste levels remained below pre-pandemic levels. In 2022, recycling continued to account for 69.1% of total waste, as safety protocols kept production activity lower.
• 2023: The Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes in the US further reduced production activity in the UK. Waste levels stayed moderate, with recycling representing 65.4% of total waste. Additionally, we decommissioned our older litho printers, significantly improving our energy efficiency and reducing waste.
• 2024 (Predicted): Waste levels are expected to stabilise, with recycling projected to remain at 65.5% of total waste. The decommissioning of litho printers is expected to further improve our sustainability performance.