How Axter became Suffolk's first Gold Carbon Literate business

Why it matters: The Ipswich-based company is the first in Suffolk to earn Gold Carbon Literate Organisation status, setting a benchmark for local businesses committed to reducing their environmental impact.

The bigger picture: This recognition strengthens Axter's sustainability credentials, coming after their recent B Corp certification and a sustainability strategy award within the past 12 months.

The details: Carbon Literacy is defined as "an awareness of the carbon costs and impacts of everyday activities, and the ability and motivation to reduce emissions, on an individual, community and organisational basis."

Axter began its Carbon Literacy journey in 2023, focusing on a day's worth of learning and action on climate change for all employees.

Since beginning their Carbon Literacy journey, the company has undertaken a comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of their business – from operations and strategy to supply chain partners.

The company has now fully embedded Carbon Literacy across its operations:

• It is mandatory for all new staff during onboarding

• It is integrated into annual performance evaluations

• It is actively championed by Axter's Environmental and Sustainability Leadership Team

What they're saying: "Achieving Gold status is a proud moment for Axter and a testament to the passion and commitment of our people," said Phillip Wilcox-Moore, Managing Director at Axter.

"We believe that real change comes from within, and that empowering our team with climate knowledge is the most powerful step we can take to create a more sustainable future for our industry."

Dave Coleman, Co-Founder and Managing Director of The Carbon Literacy Project, said: "By becoming a Gold accredited Carbon Literate Organisation, Axter has demonstrated its commitment to genuine low carbon action, environmental and economic impact and the building of a low carbon future for us all."

For context: The Carbon Literacy Project was created and founded in 2011 and launched publicly in November 2012. The Carbon Literacy Trust was established in 2013 as a registered charity to oversee the dissemination of Carbon Literacy across the UK and beyond.

The bottom line: Axter's commitment showcases how local businesses can take meaningful climate action while maintaining commercial success, potentially inspiring more Suffolk companies to pursue similar environmental credentials.