Climate commitment recognised by Ekos

Community Trust South has taken an important step in its sustainability journey, achieving Carbon Conscious Certification through environmental consultancy Ekos.

The Carbon Conscious Certification builds on external annual reviews undertaken since 2022 and has measured and externally reviewed the Trust’s greenhouse gas emissions footprint at 23.44 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e).

Chief Executive Officer Jackie Flutey said the certification reflects the Trust's commitments to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and supporting resilient, sustainable communities.

"Recognising that better environmental outcomes benefit all our communities, Community Trust South is committed to reducing its environmental impacts across its operations, investments and granting activity.

"Achieving this certification is an important milestone. It provides a clear picture of where we are today and will serve as a benchmark to guide future priorities and further reduce our environmental impact in the future.”

The certification builds on a range of initiatives the Trust has undertaken in this area over the years including electrifying the Trust's vehicle fleet, hosting community decarbonisation workshops, and embedding climate considerations into operations and investment decision-making.

Strategy, Policy & Insights Manager Jess Domigan, who leads the Trust's climate action work and is a representative of the Funders Commitment on Climate Action Aotearoa, said the organisation remains committed to aligning its work and funding practices with recognised climate leadership principles.

"We want to play our part and support our communities to achieve meaningful climate leadership that contributes to a low-carbon, climate-resilient and just transition. This certification is just one of many steps we will take as we continue working alongside our communities to support a thriving south for generations to come."