With climate change recognised as one of the most significant issues facing Australian businesses and vulnerable people, KPMG Australia has unveiled a new Climate Action Plan outlining new targets and programs to improve education and accountability.
KPMG Australia CEO, Gary Wingrove said: "We have a responsibility in enabling the transition to a low-carbon future by enhancing understanding of climate change impacts and resilience in Australia's economy, environment and society."
"Three years on from our inaugural climate action plan and we have outperformed on our targets. But we recognise that today's landscape has shifted significantly and urgent climate action is needed. Our new Climate Action Plan - with a carbon neutrality at its heart - will help educate our people and increase accountability to engage our clients, partners, stakeholders and the broader community on the importance of this issue."
Under the new Climate Action Plan there are a number of significant changes including:
- Commitment to carbon neutrality - Carbon neutral through the energy efficiency initiatives, increasing renewable energy purchases and acquiring accredited offsets for the remainder of our carbon footprint, meaning the firm's net emissions/FTE will be zero.
- 100% renewable target by 2022: Investing in the renewable energy sector by powering the firm's operations with 100% clean sources of energy.
- Reduction in energy, water, paper and waste: including 90% recycling rate target by 2022.
- Increased transparency: Extending voluntary reporting and understanding of our indirect emissions.
- Supporting emerging technology and enterprise: A commitment to invest in emerging technology and organisations striving for positive climate impact.
"We support scientific consensus that human activity is the primary cause of climate change. As a values-based organisation, KPMG is committed to advocating for climate action alongside our clients, our stakeholders and our communities," added Mr Wingrove. "KPMG continues to broaden and expand the environmental and social performance of clients through its service offerings."
