Business South’s Sustainable South Action Group latest meeting brought together members and welcomed new champions to discuss progress on the delivery of their KPI Goals.
Chair, Dan Walster (AtkinsRéalis), updated the group on the forthcoming publication of Sustainable South’s first KPI, the Net Zero guidance document, designed to support SMEs and subcontractors in measuring and reducing carbon emissions. The document, currently nearing completion, focuses on Scope 1 and 2 emissions while highlighting the growing importance of Scope 3. It will be published on the Business South website and formally presented at the group’s next meeting in July.
Ben Earl (Abri) shared insights from the Mansbridge Estate retrofit project in Southampton, delivering Natural Health within a Retrofit/existing development. The initiative demonstrates how biodiversity enhancements—such as wildflower planting, tree schemes, and community engagement—can improve both environmental outcomes and resident wellbeing.
Kemi Owoeye (Willmott Dixon) presented on integrating natural health into new developments, outlining a strategic approach that combines net zero targets, sustainable design, and biodiversity-led planning. Emphasis was placed on early-stage design integration and measurable building performance.
The group also discussed the development of KPI 2, focused on natural health, agreeing to adopt a case study-led approach. Further updates will be shared at the next meeting.
Sustainable South will next meet with the return of the “Netwalking” meeting at Halnaker Hill Farm.
