ESG
At Countrywide Grounds Maintenance, our ESG strategy, THRIVE, is helping us shape a better tomorrow. Built on six key pillars Time, Home, Responsible, Innovation, Vocation, and Environment, each pillar is a reflection of the positive impact we want to have on our clients, our communities, and our planet.
Environmental Responsibility
Our work has a direct environmental impact, so sustainability is built into how we operate and deliver services.
Sustainable landscaping practices: We use low-impact landscaping methods that reduce resource use without compromising site quality. This includes drought-tolerant and native planting, reduced irrigation through techniques such as xeriscaping, organic fertilisers, and careful control of chemical applications.
Waste reduction: We minimise waste sent to landfill by applying circular economy principles, recycling green waste and using responsible disposal methods. In 2024, we recycled over 27,000 tonnes of green waste.
Energy efficiency: We reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution by prioritising electric and battery-powered equipment wherever operationally suitable.
Biodiversity conservation: We support local ecosystems through habitat management, pollinator-friendly planting and reduced pesticide use. In 2024, our teams delivered over 80 biodiversity schemes.
Social Impact
We put people at the centre of how we operate — from our teams and clients to the communities we work in.
Employee wellbeing and safety: We invest in training, safe working practices and fair pay to support a skilled, motivated workforce. In 2024, our teams completed over 5,400 hours of training, helping to maintain high standards, safety and service quality across our operations.
Community engagement: We actively support local communities through partnerships, volunteering and funding. In 2024, our teams volunteered at more than 50 community events and donated over £15,000 to local causes. Our work also helps keep public spaces clean, safe and welcoming for everyday use.
Diversity and inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where different perspectives are valued and people can do their best work. A diverse team strengthens our culture and supports better outcomes for clients.
Governance
Strong governance underpins long-term performance and responsible service delivery.
Regulatory compliance: We operate in line with environmental, employment and health and safety regulations, reducing risk and ensuring ethical business practices.
Transparent operations: We prioritise clear communication and accountability with clients, partners and employees, building trust and consistency across our services.
Responsible procurement: We work with suppliers who share our approach to sustainability and quality, helping to reduce environmental impact across our supply chain.
Delivering Responsible Grounds Maintenance
Responsible grounds maintenance underpins safety, presentation and consistency across managed sites. In practice, ESG influences how we work in the following areas:
Builds trust with clients: More organisations now look for suppliers who can demonstrate responsible working practices. A clear ESG approach provides reassurance and supports long-term partnerships.
Supports cost control: Practical sustainability measures can reduce ongoing costs. Using water more efficiently, cutting energy use and reducing waste can help lower operating costs over time.
Helps retain skilled teams: Businesses that invest in training, safety and fair treatment are more likely to attract and keep good people. Stable, well-trained teams deliver more consistent results on site.
Prepares for changing requirements: Strong ESG standards help organisations stay aligned with regulation and evolving client expectations, reducing disruption and keeping services resilient.
At Countrywide, ESG principles are built into how we operate. Our THRIVE strategy turns this into practical action, helping us deliver responsibly and remain fit for the future.
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