ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance)

At Leafield, we specialise in sustainable recycling and waste management solutions across all our businesses. Leafield Environmental operates at the forefront of a circular economy, supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions, social responsibility and strong governance practice. Ensuring that we integrate sustainability into product design, operations and stakeholder engagement, Leafield Environmental aims to reduce its environmental impact, deliver long-term value and keep our carbon footprint at a minimum, whilst working with sustainable suppliers who operate by minimising their environmental impact. Through collaboration with employees, customers, suppliers and local communities, we aim to drive meaningful environmental and social impact, whilst strengthening long term business growth. This report will evaluate Leafields current ESG performance, how we operate to achieve our goals, as well as detailing measurable targets, key performance indicators and timelines to achieve our sustainability objectives.  

Environmental

Scope 1 (Direct Emissions): Leafield is committed to reducing its direct greenhouse gas emissions. Using hybrid and electric vehicles within our fleet supports the UK’s net zero ambitions while delivering operational efficiencies and cost savings. Scope 1 emissions reduction is prioritised alongside production efficiency to lower overall environmental impact.  

Scope 2 (Indirect from Utilities): Leafield has invested in on-site renewable energy through the installation of 504 solar panels, delivering a 226 kwP rooftop solar PV system that supplies clean, reliable electricity to our production lines. Our focus on energy efficiency stabilises energy costs and contributes to lowering our overall company carbon footprint. From installation in September 2025, within 6 months, our solar PV system has delivered a reduction of 8.87 tonnes of CO₂ emissions being released into the environment, representing an environmental impact equivalent to planting 401 trees. Implementing LED lighting throughout our buildings and optimising our machinery to reduce electricity consumption.

 Scope 3 (Indirect Emissions): Leafield prioritise using recycled and recyclable materials and working closely with responsible suppliers to reduce value chain emissions. We work with suppliers who operate by minimising their environ mental impact. Delivery schedules are continuously reviewed to improve efficiency and minimise transport emissions. All packaging boxes and proactive polythene bags are made from 100% recycled materials.

Solar installations on Corsham facilities

Waste Management: Leafield is committed to waste reduction and circular economy principles. All plastic waste is recycled and reused where possible, with cardboard and general water volumes reduced by over 50%. Through the Closed Loop Recycling Scheme, end of life plastic products are reclaimed and reprocessed into new bins made from up to 100% recycled plastic. In partnership with Bangor University, this initiative has already diverted 900 recycling bins from landfill. Ongoing innovation includes solutions such as the Meridian ‘Bagless’ Recycling Bin, which removes the need for bin bags and helps reduce waste to landfill.

Business Travel: Business travel is limited to essential journeys only. And all employees are encouraged to use public transport and virtual meetings as their first option, as an alternative to reduce travel-related emissions.

Biodiversity Impact: Participation in “Operation Clean Sweep”, demonstrating a commitment to preventing the loss of plastic pellets, flake and powder loss across all operations, ultimately reducing the environmental pollution and supporting the protection of biodiversity. 

Social

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): Leafield is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Board annually reviews the gender pay gap to support fairness and transparency. Strong female representation exists across both operational and management roles. A zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment or abuse is maintained, and a commitment to provide a safe and respectful working environment. 

Team and Working Environment: Leafield supports professional development through apprenticeships, internships, and ongoing training opportunities. Health and safety remain a priority across all sites, with mandatory training and safety practices in place. Employee wellbeing is supported through flexible work options and wellness initiatives. As part of our environmental management approach, staff are engaged in energy-saving practices, including the responsible use of lighting, to minimise avoidable energy consumption and improve overall operational efficiency. 

Community Engagement: Leafield actively engages with local communities through educational initiatives, university partnerships and environmental programmes. This includes donating recycling bins to schools, supporting local projects, participating in charity events, and providing sponsorships. 

Suppliers: We work closely with suppliers who operate by minimising their environmental impact. 

Closed Loop Recycling Scheme

Corsham Factory and Office Workers

Governance

Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Leafield maintains full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and industry standards, with oversight provided by our Board of Directors. 

Governance Structure: Appropriate governance structures are in place, including a code of conduct and whistleblowing policy, to uphold high ethical standards across the business. 

ESG Oversight and Risk Management: ESG risks and opportunities are regularly reviewed by senior management to ensure responsible decision making and long-term business resilience.

Governance Recognition: In 2025, Leafield was awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of excellence in international trade, with overseas sales growing by 63%, representing nearly half of total revenue. 

Data Privacy and Security: We uphold robust trust and cybersecurity practices to safeguard information and maintain stakeholder trust. 

Certifications and Standards: We uphold standards to ensure operational excellence and compliance. Leafield is an ISO-certified organisation, demonstrating our commitment to quality management, environmental responsibility and occupational health and safety. 

Phillip Maddox (Leafield Managing Director) receiving the Kings Award for Enterprise 2025