In order to become ISO14001 compliant, Chess had to provide evidence of an established framework and policy for operating in a way that has minimal impact on the environment as well as clear plans and achievable targets for future environmental performance.
Achievement of ISO14001 reinforces Chess’ ongoing commitment to reducing the impact business has on the environment. In 2007, Chess set up a dedicated green team to focus the business on greener working practices. The green team is made up of ‘eco-ambassadors’ from all areas of Chess, as well as a member of the senior management team. Their role is to develop and introduce new initiatives and changes to everyday business practices that will continue to drive down waste and improve efficiency.
Since the establishment of the Green Team, Chess has implemented numerous measures that have considerably lessened the impact it has on the environment. These include a bike to work and car share scheme, with 40 per cent of its people now taking advantage of these initiatives, significantly driving down carbon emissions associated with business travel.
Chess is also focused on using technology innovatively in order to further improve efficiency and cut down business waste. In 2007, after substantial investment into the development of the systems needed to do so, Chess switched all customers over to its secure, online billing platform. The switch afforded numerous benefits to customers, who can now access invoice archives and reports at the touch of a button, but it also means Chess now saves over 4 tones of paper every year.
Earlier this year, Chess received the highest possible praise for its green achievements to date when it was singled out for mention by HRH The Prince of Wales in his May Day speech on Climate Change as an example of a growing business going the extra step to minimise the footprint it leaves behind. Now, the achievement of ISO14001 clearly demonstrates Chess’ commitment to continued, year on year environmental improvement.
“I am delighted to achieve ISO14001 accreditation,” said HR & Quality Director and Green Team member Anne Binnie. “It took a great deal of hard work and dedication but it is all worth it. Chess has always had environmental responsibility at the heart of the business – we were founded to market a water saving device and in the past we have run an organic food business alongside telecoms! The Green Team is doing a fantastic job, introducing ways for us to continue to reduce the impact we have and it is our aim for environmental considerations to form a critical part of every business decision made in Chess.”