MAST Architects began tracking emissions in 2021, and they’ve since implemented a number of developments across the business. As an organisation made up of around 35 employees, MAST can quickly adapt to changes that reduce their carbon emissions. They have made some key developments to their business practices, notably their efforts to change travel behaviours across the teams.

For their Scope 1 emissions, the organisation has established an accurate reporting system for office vehicle use, replacing two diesel cars with hybrid electric vehicles. By switching to hybrid vehicles, limiting employees’ use of their own vehicles, and increasing the number of virtual meetings, MAST continue to promote sustainable transport options across the business.

Scope 3 emissions have also been reduced by conducting annual surveys to track and report employee commuting patterns, launching a cycle-to-work salary sacrifice scheme to encourage active commuting, and limiting the number of days the team are required to work in the office.

Making changes has not been without its challenges. Due to the size of the organisation, it has been difficult for the business to justify and implement higher cost actions and to find the space to install EV charging points. Setting a reliable benchmark for emissions has also been challenging due to fluctuating work patterns and changes to employee numbers in the years where MAST’s carbon footprint has been calculated.

Looking ahead, MAST’s goal is to establish both interim and final targets for achieving net zero emissions. The comprehensive data the business have been collecting since 2021 will help to establish longer term benchmarks and targets. In addition, MAST plan to expand their reporting of Scope 3 emissions to include value chain emissions, such as waste disposal and procurement. Obtaining this data would support additional adjustments to policies and behaviours, with the aim of reducing emissions further.