Aecom has rolled out a net-zero training programme, designed to increase understanding in the built environment sector, and debunk myths around sustainability. The course will be available for free via the Aecom University platform.
The global built environment sector is the source of almost 40% of global carbon emissions. In spite of this, less than an estimated 1% of buildings projects are currently evaluated in a way that quantifies the scale and source of carbon emissions generated during their lifespans.
Aecom is one of the world’s largest multinational engineering and consulting firms. The company hosts approximately 51,000 employees, partnering with clients to solve complex challenges around the world. Due to the firm’s key role in global infrastructure and the built environment, it is able to play a central role in the drive to net-zero.
To that end, Aecom has launched a net-zero training programme for key clients, to support the built environment sector’s green transition. The training has been made available free of charge via the client portal in Aecom University.
“We know that the journey to net zero needs to be taken by industry as a whole, not just a few. Therefore, it’s so important that we bring our clients along with us as we transition to a low carbon future,” said Aecom Buildings + Places Managing Director Richard Whitehead.
The training course starts with a video introduction from Aecom’s ESG Global Practice Leader Robert Spencer, where he talks about the crucial role the built environment sector plays in limiting the impact of global warming. The eight-module programme then goes on to cover planning for net-zero, renewable energy systems, low carbon funding, and offsetting, among other topics.
The programme has been driven by the firm’s net-zero carbon steering group, and comes as Aecom launches the next phase of its sustainable legacies strategy. The sustainable legacies programme is a transformative ESG strategy to advance sustainability initiatives. It integrates four key pillars that will embed sustainable development and resilience across Aecom’s work, improve social outcomes for communities, achieve net-zero carbon emissions and enhance governance.
Whitehead added, “Last April Aecom launched its Sustainable Legacies strategy, embedding ambitious environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives across the firm. One year on, we continue to support our clients as they too face up to the challenge of a net zero future and enable them embed sustainability throughout their own project portfolio.”
