- 1Choose Your Pledge Actions
- 2Review Application
- 3Submit Application
Pledge Actions
Please choose three pledge actions from the area on the right to proceed. The types of actions available can be toggled below.
What are the most popular pledge actions?
The most popular actions are in the Business Process category and include reducing waste, reducing transport emissions and becoming an exemplar.

A commitment to resource efficient construction
We pledge to manage our use of resources efficiently and report annually
39 Pledged so far
11% Have completed the pledge so farp
A commitment to resource efficient construction
The construction industry in Scotland uses significant amounts of energy, water and raw materials. In addition, the industry is also the largest producer of waste in the country.
By choosing this action, we will ensure that our business is resource efficient. As a minimum requirement we will commit to measuring the use of energy,water and waste on our projects and reporting annually.
For construction sector support please visit our website.
Verification Criteria
As a prerequisite for this action, your organisation must take part in construction activities.
The evidence required to verify that this action has been undertaken would be a report outlining the actions taken and their impact.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Achieve environmental accreditation or award
Our business will plan for and achieve a recognised environmental management system accreditation (e.g. ISO 14001, Green Tourism Business Scheme, Green Tick).
65 Pledged so far
25% Have completed the pledge so farp
Achieve environmental accreditation or award
There is increasing pressure on organisations throughout Scotland to demonstrate their environmental credentials. In the public sector, this pressure is coming through the Scottish Sustainable Procurement Action Plan. In addition, as part of the tendering process, many private sector organisations are following suit and demanding proof that organisations have an externally verified environmental management system in place.
Businesses may also wish to consider entering environmental awards for business, such as the VIBES awards.
Verification criteria
In larger organisations, senior management approval may be required for this action. Once completed, the evidence required would be a scan of the relevant certificate.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Assign senior manager responsibility
We will make resource efficiency a priority in our business by assigning senior manager/company director responsibility.
101 Pledged so far
16% Have completed the pledge so farp
Assign senior manager responsibility
Senior managers tend to be the key decision-makers in an organisation. Assigning the responsibility to operate more efficiently to someone at this level will allow them to use their influence to drive change throughout an organisation and ensure any proposals are discussed at all levels.
Verification criteria
Permission from relevant parties within your organisation would be required to make this change to a senior management role. As evidence for action completion, a scan of the change to the job description signed by relevant parties would be required (confidential information may be redacted.)
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Become an exemplar in resource efficiency
We will work with Zero Waste Scotland to develop a case study about our achievements and share Good Practice.
42 Pledged so far
24% Have completed the pledge so farp
Become an exemplar in resource efficiency
Many organisations in Scotland have already benefitted from showcasing their environmental achievements with the help of Zero Waste Scotland. This not only offers the opportunity to highlight your environmental credentials to potential customers and partners, but also allows best practice to be shared throughout your industry and improve Scotland’s performance as a whole.
Organisations who select this pledge action will be contacted by us to work together in the development of a case study to be used online. Examples are available online.
Businesses choosing to become an exemplar, may also wish to proceed with the opportunity to join our the Green Network for Businesses, which gives you a plaftorm to showcase your resource efficiency improvements to other businesses in your area.
Verification criteria
You must have exemplary environmental performance in a number of different categories. To verify that this action has been completed, a case study developed in conjunction with us would be required.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Benchmark resource use
We will benchmark our resource use so we can compare our performance against Best Practice and that of other organisations.
30 Pledged so far
24% Have completed the pledge so farp
Benchmark resource use
Benchmarking is a great way to let you set the level you wish to reach; to understand what competitors have achieved and to set new goals for your business and your staff.
Case studies can provide you insight as to what others are doing and help you to benchmark your business against others.
Verification criteria
As a prerequisite for this action, you must be able to get access to utilities and/or transport data.
Baseline data for energy, waste, water or transport would be required as evidence that this action has taken place, preferrably in spreadsheet format.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Collaborate with other organisations
We will work collaboratively with other organisations in our area.
57 Pledged so far
8% Have completed the pledge so farp
Collaborate with other organisations
Joining forces enables businesses to achieve economies of scale and get better deals from suppliers and contractors, as well as offering contracts which will benefit all parties. This will reduce the environmental impact of each organisation as the travel and other associated impacts will be shared between the other businesses.
For insights as to what local businesses have done visit The Green Network for Businesses.
Zero Waste Scotland's Energy Efficiency Business Support Service can help you collaborate with other business in your area. Contact our advisors by calling 0808 808 2268.
Verification criteria
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact will be required as evidence that this action has been completed.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Community litter pick
We will organise a litter pick to help clean up the community in which we operate.
39 Pledged so far
24% Have completed the pledge so farp
Community litter pick
We commit to organising and/or supporting a minimum of one litter pick per year, working with the local community e.g. community groups or schools (if appropriate). This will help us to demonstrate our corporate social responsibility by minimising any litter impacts of our business on the community in which it operates.
Verification criteria.
You must perform a risk assessment before undertaking this activity. A report outlining the actions taken and their impact will be required as evidence that this action has been undertaken.
Actions may be evidenced by photographs of the litter pick/event; number of bags of litter and recyclate collected; staff and community involvement
This action covers
- Waste

Construction building information modelling
Investigate and implement Building Information Modelling (BIM) for your construction projects
1 Pledged so far
100% Have completed the pledge so farp
Construction building information modelling
Digital technology is transforming the construction industry. Innovations are bringing reductions in carbon use, construction time, project costs, material use and construction waste.
Good design should consider the whole life of the building or project in addition to the construction phase. Digital technology and processes can help to achieve this with a focus on carbon and cost benefits beyond the construction and handover stages. Digital technology and processes can also be used to unlock efficiencies in the operation of buildings, using accurate data to drive better decision making and investment.
Innovative builds and retrofits make use of Building Information Modelling (BIM).
If you would like to discuss how your business or project could work with us to receive free, specialist construction support and advice, please email us.
Verification criteria
Evidence of integration of Building Information Modelling into your build or retrofit.
This action covers
- Raw materials

Construction designing out waste project
Attend a workshop to find out how to design out waste at the design stage of a construction project
2 Pledged so far
0% Have completed the pledge so farp
Construction designing out waste project
Attend a construction industry event hosted by Zero Waste Scotland or another party, to learn how to design out waste in construction.
To discuss how your business could work receive free, specialist support and advice, please email us.
Verification criteria
Confirmation of attendance at our (or other) relevant event including name of attendee(s) and date of the event. If the event is run by another organisation, then a summary report of the event would be requested.
This action covers
- Raw materials

Construction site assessment
Undertake a construction site opportunity assessment to identify waste opportunities for projects and sites
2 Pledged so far
0% Have completed the pledge so farp
Construction site assessment
We will conduct a site waste assessment to identify where waste is arising and make steps to reduce and prevent waste to landfill.
Support for your business or project
Zero Waste Scotland can work with site managers and environmental managers to quantify opportunities for better resource efficiency that saves money, carbon and material use.
Zero Waste Scotland has engaged a team of specialists to help deliver support and can help you business or project by;
- Identifying cost savings from different ways to manage materials and waste (especially troublesome waste streams);
- Sharing Best Practice and tools for site management; and
- Supporting sub-contractors to reduce your waste costs.
If you would like to discuss how your business or project could work with us to receive specialist support and advice, please email us.
This action covers
- Raw materials

Develop a Litter Prevention Action Plan
We will develop a Litter Prevention Action Plan to help prevent litter and flytipping and create a safer, cleaner environment for all.
5 Pledged so far
60% Have completed the pledge so farp
Develop a Litter Prevention Action Plan
We commit to developing a Litter Prevention Action Plan for our organisation and to contribute to the development of the Community-level plan covering our area. By developing a plan and taking action to prevent our operations / staff / clients from producing litter, we will demonstrate our commitment to our local community, the environment and help to bring about long-term behaviour change in relation to littering and flytipping.
Organisations from a wide range of sectors and industries are being encouraged to produce Litter Prevention Action Plans which will then feed into the development of Community Litter Prevention Action Plans covering each Local Authority area.
You may also find the Anti-litter campaign toolkit useful.
More information can be found by emailing our litter and flytipping team.
Verification criteria
This action will be evidenced by the submission of a completed Litter Prevention Action Plan and the associated approval email.
This action covers
- Waste

Develop environmental policy
We will develop and share an environmental policy.
103 Pledged so far
22% Have completed the pledge so farp
Develop environmental policy
An environmental policy is a written statement outlining your organisation’s commitment to managing the environmental impacts of its operations. By developing an environmental policy, you'll gain a better understanding of how your organisation impacts on the environment, and what you can do to reduce these impacts. It is a great way to improve the way you manage your resources and achieve cost savings.
There is advice on how to develop and share an environmental policy, together with example policies from which you can learn.
Verification criteria
Your organisation must have an environmental policy to make pledge. If you don't have one already, you need to make it one of your pledge actions.
As evidence that this action has been undertaken, a scan of your environmental policy signed by senior management or a link to the document online would be required.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Host student placement
We will host an environmental placement student to target specific resource efficiency opportunities and make quick wins.
17 Pledged so far
12% Have completed the pledge so farp
Host student placement
Hosting a student gives valuable experience to the next generation of resource efficiency professionals and provides a link for your organisation to these highly skilled students and graduates.
Many universities in Scotland operate a work placement link-up as part of their degree courses and are always looking for new organisations to partner with. Alternative programmes exist such as Bright Green Partnerships placements for students and graduates.
Verification criteria
You must be able to accommodate a student within your organisation.
A scan of an employement contract (including job description) signed by relevant parties would be required as evidence that this action has taken place (confidential information may be redacted).
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Improve energy efficiency
We will implement measures to reduce our energy consumption by a minimum of 5%.
80 Pledged so far
19% Have completed the pledge so farp
Improve energy efficiency
Reducing your energy consumption will lead to direct cost savings through lower energy bills. The first stage of identifying what savings you may be able to make is to undertake an energy audit.
If you think your business could achieve more than 5% or that it would be difficult to achieve, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is more appropriate?
Verification criteria
For implementing physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building. This can be linked to the benchmark and target setting Pledge actions.
Written confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence.
This action covers
- Energy

Improve EPC rating
We will improve the Energy Performance Certificate rating of our property by one rating band.
4 Pledged so far
0% Have completed the pledge so farp
Improve EPC rating
The Energy Performance Certificate rating of a property is given by taking into account the energy efficiency and carbon footprint of the property. The factors taken into account to provide an overall score for an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) include insulation properties; heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system and fuel type; services (such as lighting); and the use of renewables. Therefore, to improve your score, you will need to become more energy or carbon efficient in one of these areas.
Available guidance includes:
How to conduct an energy audit.
Save energy and money on lighting.
How to carry out a successful lighting replacement project.
How to save money on heating workplaces.
If you think your business could improve by more than one band, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is most appropriate?
Verification criteria
In order to select this action, your organisation must already have an EPC.
A scan of successive EPCs showing improvement of least one rating point would be required as evidence that this action has taken place. Assessments must be carried out by an organisation other than Resource Efficient Scotland.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials

Improve recycling rates
We will implement measures to increase the amount of waste recycled by a minimum of 5%.
108 Pledged so far
13% Have completed the pledge so farp
Improve recycling rates
Recycling is the processing of used and waste materials into new products. Most materials can now be recycled. The Waste (Scotland) Regulations require all organisations in Scotland to segregate paper, card, glass, plastics and metal at source for separate collection by 1 January 2014. At the same time, the increasing Landfill Tax often makes recycling a more commercially attractive way to deal with waste.
By recycling waste and diverting it from landfill, you can help reduce your organisation’s waste management costs. It will also help you comply with the Waste (Scotland) Regulations.
If you think your business could achieve more than 5% or that it would be difficult to achieve, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is more appropriate?
Recycle on the Go is an established brand for labelling bins in public places.
You could also sign up to the Every Can Counts programme to encourage drinks cans recycling in your workplace and make this part of your Pledge.
Verification criteria
For physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building. This can be linked to the benchmark and target setting Pledge Actions.
Written confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence that the action has taken place.
This action covers
- Waste

Join sector agreement
We will sign up to our sector’s voluntary agreement (this action is suitable for businesses in the grocery, construction, hospitality or resource management sectors).
6 Pledged so far
0% Have completed the pledge so farp
Join sector agreement
There are several voluntary agreement schemes operating in the UK that enable organisations to make a public commitment about reducing their waste or becoming more resource efficient. The benefits of such commitments are:
- the opportunity to publicly highlight your organisation’s environmental credentials;
- further support to cut costs, prevent waste generation and reduce carbon dioxide emissions;
- create a support network and vehicle for change;
- improve competitiveness, and
- help obtain buy-in from senior management.
Signagory schemes available to interested organisations are; the Courtauld Commitment, Scotland’s Resource Sector Commitment and the Carrier Bag Commitment.
The Courtauld Commitment 2025 aims to cut the cost of food and drink. An ambitious voluntary agreement brings together organisations across the food system to make food & drink production and consumption more sustainable. At its heart is a ten-year commitment to identify priorities, develop solutions and implement changes to cut the carbon, water and waste associated with food & drink by at least one-fifth in 10 years.
The Carrier Bag Commitment is a voluntary agreement operated by Zero Waste Scotland, which asks retailers to report carrier bag sales and commit to donating money raised to good causes in Scotland. It is a free tool to help centralise your records and keep information securely for a minimum of 3 years.
Verification criteria
Your organisation must be in a sector where there is a relevant voluntary agreement. For larger organisations, you will need to get senior management sign-off.
As evidence that this action has been completed, an updated membership roster or email showing acceptance into voluntary sector agreement would be requested.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Lease electric vehicles
We will lease an electric car for pool use.
10 Pledged so far
50% Have completed the pledge so farp
Lease electric vehicles
Electric vehicles are powered solely by on-board batteries or fuel cells. The new generation of electric cars has a range of between 100 to 300 miles on a full charge. This is sufficient for the commuting and daily driving patterns of many people. The vehicles must pass the stringent safety testing that applies to all cars and, in terms of overall performance, they will be suitable for normal use including motorway driving.
Potential buyers will understandably have many questions that they need answered before committing to the purchase of an electric car. For free, impartial advice to help you decide if a plug-in vehicle could be appropriate for you, email or call Energy Savings Trust Transport Advisers on 0845 602 1425.
Verification criteria
You will need to get senior management sign-off before selecting this action.
As evidence that this action has taken place, a scan of lease documentation would be required.
This action covers
- Energy

Litter prevention
We will aim to prevent the incidence of litter that might result from our products or services.
31 Pledged so far
13% Have completed the pledge so farp
Litter prevention
We will keep the land on and surrounding our premises free of litter as far as is reasonably practical. For example, we will undertake litter monitoring and clearance where required; arrange or provide adequate bins for use by our customers, including facilities for the disposal of cigarette ends; and comply with Duty of Care requirements to ensure that our waste and recycling doesn’t become litter.
Actions may be evidenced by, for example: weekly monitoring sheets, waste transfer notes, site visits, staff awareness of litter issues.
Verification criteria
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Waste

Measure and Monitor Food Waste
We pledge to measure and monitor our food waste
7 Pledged so far
15% Have completed the pledge so farp
Measure and Monitor Food Waste
Measuring and monitoring your food waste is the first step to understanding how much food you waste and where it comes from. Once this is understood, you are in a better position to know how to prevent this waste. It also provides you with a baseline to monitor progress against.
Zero Waste Scotland’s Food Waste Reduction team helps food and drink businesses in the fight against food waste. We offer guidance, advice and one-to-one support, so that you can reduce your environmental impact, and your costs. Contact our Food Waste Reduction team for support for your business, on 01786 433 930 or email food.drink@zerowastescotland.org.uk
Verification Criteria
To verify that this action has taken place, submission of your collated waste data would be required, preferably in a spreadsheet format.
This action covers
- Waste

Plan resource efficiency actions
We will produce and implement a resource efficiency action plan that will reduce our raw material, energy and water consumption, and waste generation.
17 Pledged so far
6% Have completed the pledge so farp
Plan resource efficiency actions
Producing an action plan is a key step in ensuring an organisation can effectively improve its resource efficiency and save money. An action plan allows tasks to be prioritised based on cost and potential savings, and will ensure all tasks have been sufficiently resourced. This helps to ensure that investment in improving resource efficiency will be as effective as possible.
To help your organisation form its own action plan, you can use The Savings Finder tool.
Verification criteria
A table outlining actions, who is responsible, when they need to be completed would be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Re-use of materials from construction activities
We will work collaboratively with other businesses to re-use materials ands prevent waste
9 Pledged so far
12% Have completed the pledge so farp
Re-use of materials from construction activities
The construction industry generates thousands of tonnes of waste, often in raw materials that could be re-used. We will take part in the construction material exchange to share unwanted materials with others, and source materials from the exchange when possible.
Verification criteria
As a prerequisite for this action, your organisation must take part in construction activities.
As suggested evidence for this action, you could become a registered user of the Construction Material Exchange and re-use some construction materials.
This action covers
- Raw materials
- Waste

Reduce Food Waste
We will implement measures to reduce our food waste generation by a minimum of 10%
8 Pledged so far
13% Have completed the pledge so farp
Reduce Food Waste
Reducing your food waste will lead to savings not only in reduced waste uplift costs, but also by hidden costs such as raw material purchase, staff time, energy use and transport. The first stage of identifying what savings you may be able to make is to undertake a food waste audit. Contact our Food Waste Reduction team for support for your business, on 01786 433 930 or email food.drink@zerowastescotland.org.uk
If you think your business could achieve more than 10% or that it would be difficult to achieve, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is more appropriate?
Verification Criteria:
To verify that this action has taken place, written confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence. Where available, this should be supplemented with a copy of your food waste audit, photos of new equipment, and monitoring data revealing the percentage decrease of food waste achieved.

Reduce materials consumption and wastage
We pledge to measure our consumption and reduce our waste
27 Pledged so far
12% Have completed the pledge so farp
Reduce materials consumption and wastage
The construction industry is an intensive user of materials and generates significant waste. We commit to measuring our use of materials and reducing our consumption.
Support for your business or project
Zero Waste Scotland can work with site managers and environmental managers to quantify opportunities for better resource efficiency that saves money, carbon and material use.
Zero Waste Scotland has engaged a team of specialists to help deliver support and can help you business or project by;
- Identifying cost savings from different ways to manage materials and waste (especially troublesome waste streams);
- Sharing Best Practice and tools for site management; and
- Supporting sub-contractors to reduce your waste costs.
If you would like to discuss how your business or project could work with us to receive specialist support and advice, please email us.
Verification criteria
For the implementation of physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building.
This can be linked to the benchmark and target setting Pledge actions. Written confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Reduce raw material use
We will implement measures to reduce our use of raw materials by 5%.
9 Pledged so far
23% Have completed the pledge so farp
Reduce raw material use
There are various techniques that can be used to help you look objectively at your methods of manufacturing or how you deliver services so you can identify resource efficiency and cost-saving improvement opportunities. These include waste mapping, mass-flow analysis, calculating mass balance and process yields, and process optimisation.
If you think your business could achieve more than 5% or that it would be difficult to achieve, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is more appropriate?
Verification criteria
For the implementation of physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building.
This can be linked to the benchmark and target setting Pledge actions. Confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence that you have completed this action.
This action covers
- Raw materials
- Waste

Reduce transport emissions
We will implement measures to reduce our transport emissions by 5%.
30 Pledged so far
24% Have completed the pledge so farp
Reduce transport emissions
A reduction in transport emissions will usually be accompanied by a reduction in fuel costs, and vehicle wear and tear. Areas to target when attempting to reduce transport emissions include alternatives to travel, improvement in vehicle efficiency, increased use of public transport and fuel efficient driving.
Details on what support is available can be found on the Energy Saving Trust website.
If you think your business could achieve more than 5% or that it would be difficult to achieve, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is more appropriate?
Verification critiera
For the implementation of physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building.
This can be linked to the benchmark and target setting Pledge actions. Confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Energy

Reduce water use
We will implement measures to reduce the amount of water we use by 5%.
19 Pledged so far
32% Have completed the pledge so farp
Reduce water use
Due to the energy intensity of water supply and wastewater management, water prices have risen steadily over the last 10 years and are likely to continue to mirror increasing energy prices. When managed correctly, water and wastewater reduction initiatives will help to reduce your utility costs. Identifying ways to reduce your water use may also highlight opportunities to improve processes that have been missed by other resource efficiency initiatives
Guidance on the development of a full water minimisation programme is online.
Water consumption can often be reduced easily, quickly and cheaply. Therefore, it is recommended that you create a new action with a higher target. Many businesses have achieved savings over 20% with no or low-cost measures. If you think your business could achieve this or that 5% would be difficult to achieve, then why not create a new action and specify the target you feel is more appropriate?
Verification criteria
For the implementation of physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building.
This can be linked to the benchmark and target setting Pledge actions. Confirmation that you have carried the actions out will be required as evidence that you have completed this action.
This action covers
- Water

Set senior management agenda
We will make resource efficiency a priority in our business by ensuring that it is a standing item at all senior management meetings.
30 Pledged so far
37% Have completed the pledge so farp
Set senior management agenda
Discussing resource efficiency at senior management meetings will ensure your organisation approaches the subject in an integrated and cohesive manner. This will allow people in all areas of the organisation to understand their role in and the reasoning behind any future actions.
There is guidance available for how to develop a business case for energy efficiency projects.
Verification criteria
As a pre-requisite for this action, seek permission to add items to management meeting agenda.
A digital copy of a meeting agenda from more than one meeting would be required as evidence that this action has taken place (confidential information may be redacted).

Set targets to reduce resource use
We will establish a resource monitoring system and specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound (SMART) targets to reduce resource use.
13 Pledged so far
24% Have completed the pledge so farp
Set targets to reduce resource use
In order to reduce resource use, it is necessary to measure how resources are currently being used in your organisation by conducting an audit of how resources are being used. This could include looking at energy, water or raw materials usage within your organisation and looking at where savings could be made.
There is guidance on how to conduct an energy audit.
Verification criteria
As a pre-requisite for this action, you must be able to get access to utilities and/or transport data. This can be linked to the benchmark Pledge action.
A document explaining your choice of Key Performance Indicator (KPI) and target choice would be requested as evidence for completing this action.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Share experience across the business community
We will drive change by sharing experience across the business community.
31 Pledged so far
30% Have completed the pledge so farp
Share experience across the business community
Learning from the experiences of other businesses is a valuable way of avoiding unexpected pitfalls and making sure things are right first time. We will work with Zero Waste Scotland to share best practice amongst businesses in Scotland.
For further information please contact one of our advisors on 0808 808 2268 or email us.
Verification criteria
As evidence that this action has been completed, a report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Add resource efficiency to job descriptions
We will include resource efficiency as part of job descriptions to help ensure compliance with our internal management systems.
20 Pledged so far
25% Have completed the pledge so farp
Add resource efficiency to job descriptions
Resource efficiency is often the sole responsibility of interested individuals in an organisation. This can result in the required work being carried out only when time is available, which can mean many initiatives lose their momentum and are eventually forgotten.
Verification criteria
Permission from relevant authorities within your organisation may be required for this action. Once complete, a scan of the change to job description signed by relevant parties would be required as evidence for action completion (confidential information may be redacted.)
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Create a working group
We will establish a resource efficiency working group comprising representatives from key areas in our organisation to identify priority actions across all departments.
15 Pledged so far
60% Have completed the pledge so farp
Create a working group
The skills to identify which areas require improvement and where efficiency savings can be made may already be present in your organisation. Staff in each department will have an in-depth understanding of their own processes and should, therefore, be engaged to identify efficiency actions. The working group, which might be a dedicated Green Team, can further identify those actions that are most likely to be successful, who may require further training and the best way to manage any changes.
Verfication criteria
You may need to get senior management sign-off for a budget for group activities. To verify that this action has been undertaken, a list of members, minutes of meetings/ meeting dates and agendas would be requested.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Develop a car-share scheme
We will develop a car-share scheme for staff.
7 Pledged so far
15% Have completed the pledge so farp
Develop a car-share scheme
Car sharing can save your employees money through reduced fuel and maintenance costs. It will also reduce congestion, pollution from car emissions and carbon footprint, and can contribute to a happy, more sociable workforce.
We will develop a car share plan which will facilitate staff to share transport, encouraging them to travel together and reduce the number of individual car journeys.
Verification criteria
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as evidence for this action.
This action covers
- Energy

Engage staff about energy efficiency
We will implement a staff engagement campaign about energy efficiency.
53 Pledged so far
21% Have completed the pledge so farp
Engage staff about energy efficiency
While new equipment such as better lighting or more efficient boilers will save your organisation money, there will always be wasted energy due to staff behaviour. Therefore, it is vitally important that any energy efficiency measures are backed up with a Staff Engagement campaign. This will not only ensure staff are aware of their responsibilities to be more resource efficient, but it will also encourage them to provide feedback and their own ideas.
Verification criteria
To verify that this action has taken place, a staff engagement campaign plan would be required.
This action covers
- Energy

Engage staff about food waste prevention
We will implement a staff engagement campaign about food waste prevention
5 Pledged so far
20% Have completed the pledge so farp
Engage staff about food waste prevention
While new equipment such as better ovens, vacuum pack machines or fryer filtration systems will save your organisation money, there will always be wasted food due to staff behaviour. Therefore, it is vitally important that any food waste prevention measures are backed up with a staff engagement campaign. This will not only ensure staff are aware of their responsibilities to be more resource efficient, but it will also encourage them to provide feedback and contribute their own ideas.
Zero Waste Scotland's Food Waste Reduction team is here to help food and drink businesses in the fight against food waste. We offer guidance, advice and one-to-one support, so that you can reduce your environmental impact, and your costs. Contact our Food Waste Reduction team for support for your business, on 01786 433 930 or email food.drink@zerowastescotland.org.uk
Verification Criteria
To verify that this action has taken place, a staff engagement campaign plan would be required, supplemented by photos and materials where appropriate.
This action covers
- Waste

Engage staff about resource efficiency at home
We will implement a staff engagement campaign on resource efficiency at home.
13 Pledged so far
31% Have completed the pledge so farp
Engage staff about resource efficiency at home
By helping staff become more resource efficient at home, they will be able to better understand the benefits through reduced utility bills and further financial savings. This should then help them appreciate how your organisation can benefit from transferring these behaviours into the workplace.
Verification criteria
To verify that this action has been undertaken, a staff engagement campaign plan would be required. You can download this here.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Engage staff about water efficiency
We will implement a staff engagement campaign about water efficiency.
7 Pledged so far
58% Have completed the pledge so farp
Engage staff about water efficiency
While new equipment such as improved machinery or push-button taps will save your organisation money, there will always be wasted water due to staff behaviour. Therefore, it is vitally important that any water efficiency measures are backed up with a staff engagement campaign. This will not only ensure staff are aware of their responsibilities to be more resource efficient, but will also encourage them to give feedback and their own ideas, thus improving future campaigns.
Verification criteria
To verify that this action has been undertaken, a staff engagement campaign plan would be required.
This action covers
- Water

Engage staff to recycle
We will implement a staff engagement campaign about recycling.
71 Pledged so far
16% Have completed the pledge so farp
Engage staff to recycle
The most important part of successfully implementing a recycling strategy in any organisation is to change staff behaviour. To achieve this in the long-term, it is crucial an effective staff engagement campaign is implemented. This will not only ensure staff are aware of their responsibilities to be more resource efficient, but will also encourage them to give feedback and their own ideas.
Verification criteria
To verify that this action has taken place, a staff engagement campaign plan would be required.
This action covers
- Waste

External training
Attend at least one resource efficiency training event.
38 Pledged so far
37% Have completed the pledge so farp
External training
We will ensure that the most appropriate person in our organisation attends at least one resource efficiency training event.
Free workshops, webinars and training events are regularly hosted. Do keep an eye on the Energy Efficiency Business Support Service event pages. Green Champions training workshops cover wider resource efficiency and includes; energy, water and waste and is also available online. Zero Waste Scotland also host events through the year.
The benefits of the interactive training events are not just limited to the training material itself. They provide an opportunity to engage with expert advisers and to learn what other businesses have done which can provide valuable insight into how you can improve your organisation’s resource efficiency.
Verification criteria
Confirmation of attendance at our (or other) relevant event including name of attendee(s) and date of the event. If the event is run by another organisation, then a summary report of the event would be requested.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Hold a resource efficiency day
We will engage staff on resource efficiency at home and at work by holding a resource efficiency day.
8 Pledged so far
50% Have completed the pledge so farp
Hold a resource efficiency day
A resource efficiency day is a useful way of increasing employee awareness of the issues and potential benefits of using resources more efficiency. Resources in the Staff Engagement Toolkit will provide you with some inspiration and structure.
Verification criteria
Please note you may need to get senior management sign-off for a budget to allow such an event to take place. A report outlining the agenda for the resource efficiency day and the impact of the event would be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Invest in secure bicycle storage for staff
We will provide secure storage for staff cycling to work.
16 Pledged so far
32% Have completed the pledge so farp
Invest in secure bicycle storage for staff
A business that promotes cycling will benefit from a healthier, more productive workforce and will find it easier to promote further sustainable travel initiatives in the business. We will ensure staff have secure storage for bikes, and where possible provide changing facilities for cyclists.
Feel free to make use of our Staff Engagement Toolkit
Verification criteria
For physical changes, you must have permission to carry out work in the building.
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as evidence that Pledge Actions have taken place.
This action covers
- Energy

Promote the use of public transport
We will encourage staff to use public transport.
35 Pledged so far
18% Have completed the pledge so farp
Promote the use of public transport
Not only does using public transport save money, but by letting someone else concentrate on the driving means individuals can work or rest en-route, and arrive fresher and better prepared.
Tools, advice and assistance in travel planning are available online. Energy Savings Trust has information on how to reduce carbon footprint as individuals.
Verification criteria
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Energy

Reward resource efficiency creativity
We will reward employees for innovative resource efficiency ideas.
6 Pledged so far
50% Have completed the pledge so farp
Reward resource efficiency creativity
Rewarding employees for innovation will encourage all areas of the workforce to consider where savings can be made. Employees understand their working areas and practices better than anyone else, so are well placed to have ideas have practical application.
Verification criteria
As a pre-requisite for this action, you may need to get senior management sign-off for a budget for reward.
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as evidence for this action.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Set up a green team
We will establish a green team to support the communication of key messages across our business and improve staff engagement.
50 Pledged so far
20% Have completed the pledge so farp
Set up a green team
Developing a green team can provide you with valuable support for the implementation of your resource efficiency improvements. Organisations that have successfully developed green teams and used them to accelerate their resource efficiency improvements have provided the following tips.
• Successful green teams comprise people from different departments and levels of seniority. This helps to ensure that ideas are varied and dynamic.
• While people with specific/desirable skills and experience may be available to you, the main attribute you need from green team members is enthusiasm.
• Team members do not have to be ‘green’. Indeed, those who understand the commercial imperative of resource efficiency can be powerful in motivating others to act who have similar attitudes.
Further information on how to set up a green team is available online.
Verification criteria
As a pre-requisite to this action, you may need to get senior management sign-off for a budget for green team activities.
As evidence that this action has taken place, a list of members, minutes of meetings, meeting dates and agendas would suffice.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Staff induction programme
By making environmental matters a key part of our induction programme, we will ensure that all new staff are aware of their impacts on the environment and what they can do to minimise them.
35 Pledged so far
29% Have completed the pledge so farp
Staff induction programme
Ensuring staff are aware of their environmental responsibilities from the outset will prevent the formation of bad habits, which can be difficult to change once in place. Further benefits include the prevention of costly errors such as the contamination of waste streams or the misuse of equipment.
Induction training needs to be dynamic, focused and easily remembered. New employees are normally bombarded by new systems and other forms of training. So, it may be best to introduce your resource efficiency programmes by detailing incentive schemes, key activities and potential areas of responsibility for new staff.
You may wish to make use of our staff engagement toolkit as part of your staff training or induction.
Verification criteria
You will need to get agreement from HR on how resource efficiency fits into the existing induction programme.
A formal induction document/checklist showing that resource efficiency is included would suffice as evidence that this action has been undertaken. Details of training materials delivered as part of induction would also be useful.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Staff training sessions
Through a series of training sessions, we will provide guidance to all staff about our environmental policy and ways in which they can help our business to reduce its environmental impact.
22 Pledged so far
19% Have completed the pledge so farp
Staff training sessions
Training sessions are a useful way of increasing staff awareness of any environmental initiatives and commitments being undertaken by your organisation. Increased awareness will improve buy-in as staff will understand the reasons behind what they are asked to do. In turn, this will increase ownership of any actions and, therefore, the chances of success.
We offer the free online Green Champions training and regularly host events, workshops and webinars to help supplement your staff training sessions.
Verification criteria
You may need to get senior management sign-off for a budget for training activities.
As evidence that this action has taken place, a list of training sessions including date, audience and topic of training session would be required. Please note complete list of attendees would not be necessary.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Develop a sustainable procurement policy
We will support Scotland’s sustainable growth by procuring resource efficient products and services.
15 Pledged so far
40% Have completed the pledge so farp
Develop a sustainable procurement policy
You can gain a lot by improving your own internal processes. However, exerting influence beyond your own operations and into your wider supply chain will maximise resource efficiency and environmental benefits. Reaching beyond the boundaries of your own operations and working closely with your supply chain can help your organisation identify cost savings and environmental improvements.
Verification criteria
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as verification that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Implement a re-use policy
We will implement sustainable procurement policies including a re-use policy.
19 Pledged so far
22% Have completed the pledge so farp
Implement a re-use policy
Where waste cannot be prevented, the most cost-effective measure is to re-use the items rather than recycling them. This not only avoids disposal costs, but also the purchase of a replacement item.
Sometimes, items may need cleaning or fixing before they can be re-used. If you can’t re-use an item, but someone else can, they might take it away for free or even pay you for it. For example, some companies will buy old wooden pallets they can clean, repair and then sell on. Others pay for old IT equipment or second-hand furniture.
Verification criteria
You should check with your procurement department and those who will use the re-used equipment to see if your solution is acceptable to them.
A scan of rthe e-use policy document signed by relevant parties would be required as evidence that this action has taken place. The policy should be also be made available to staff and public.
This action covers
- Raw materials
- Waste

Implement an asset register
We will implement an asset register to track property and to support a re-use policy.
15 Pledged so far
34% Have completed the pledge so farp
Implement an asset register
An asset register is a way of recording all the assets your organisation owns. As well as being a useful accounting tool, the asset register can help your business be more resource efficient. By formally recording all assets in a business, it is possible to avoid double purchasing, that is the purchase of an item that may already be present in another department. The register can also be used to keep track of the lifespan of products. This may identify potential areas to improve procurement practices or areas of your organisation that can still use assets that are no longer suitable for the original purpose, this is especially relevant for IT equipment and furniture.
Verification criteria
You must have access to procurement information within your organisation.
A scan of an asset register documentation or screenshot of asset management system would be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Waste

Initiate a supply chain management plan
We will undertake a supply chain management plan to engage and support our supply chain to implement sustainable practices.
2 Pledged so far
50% Have completed the pledge so farp
Initiate a supply chain management plan
You can gain a lot by improving your internal processes. However, exerting influence beyond your own operations and into your wider supply chain will maximise resource efficiency and environmental benefits. Reaching beyond the boundaries of your own operations and working closely with your suppliers can help your organisation identify cost savings and environmental improvements.
Guidance is available on how to develop a supply chain management and sustainable procurement.
Verification criteria
You must be in position where it is possible for you impact on your organisation's supply chain.
A scan of the supply chain management plan signed by relevant parties would be required as evidence (confidential information may be redacted).
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste

Make available electric vehicle charging points
We will install electric vehicle charging points
11 Pledged so far
37% Have completed the pledge so farp
Make available electric vehicle charging points
This will encourage staff to purchase their own electric vehicles, provide a convenient means of recharging and reduce the carbon footprint of your organisation.
To inform the wider roll out of infrastructure as mainstream electric vehicles come to the UK, the Government is supporting the ‘Plugged-In Places’ programme. The programme offers match-funding to consortia of businesses and public sector partners to support the installation of electric vehicle recharging infrastructure in lead places across the UK.
Verification criteria
You will need to get senior management sign-off. You must have permission to carry out work in the building.
Scan of the purchase order or grant documentation for charging point would suffice as evidence for this action to have taken place.
This action covers
- Energy

Train procurement staff
We will ensure that all staff responsible for procurement are given regular refresher training on our resource efficient procurement policies and procedures.
2 Pledged so far
50% Have completed the pledge so farp
Train procurement staff
Training procurement staff will help them to understand the true cost of any decisions they make and explain why they should take the full lifecycle of purchases into account. This is something that is often not considered and may be costing businesses more money than alternative options – either from increased energy consumption or through increased disposal costs. Many businesses have drastically reduced their waste and energy bills by successfully training procurement staff. Examples include procuring more energy efficient equipment and avoiding of packaging waste.
Verification criteria
You must perform a risk assement before undertaking this activity.
A report outlining the actions taken and their impact would be required as evidence that this action has taken place.
This action covers
- Energy
- Water
- Raw materials
- Waste
Create your own Pledge Actions, customised to suit your business needs. We'll review your customised actions and may contact you to discuss these further. You can have a mix of standard Pledge Actions and Custom Actions for a total of three.
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