Our Sustainability Journey…
Following our success in achieving carbon neutrality under the PAS 2060 standard (before it was globally withdrawn), we have ensured our continued commitment to working sustainably by submitting our emissions reduction targets to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). These have been officially validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and are visible on its target dashboard, demonstrating that we are going beyond general sustainability promises and taking real, measurable action to make genuine progress towards Net Zero.
What does the Science Based Targets initiative mean?
SBTi approval means our targets have been independently checked and confirmed to match the latest climate science and the goals of the Paris Agreement. In simple terms, it shows that our plans are realistic, measurable, and aligned with what is needed globally to limit warming to 1.5°C. It ensures transparency and accountability in our approach to sustainability, demonstrating that our commitments are based on science, not just good intentions.
We have committed to cutting our direct emissions (Scope 1) and the emissions from the energy we use (Scope 2) by 63% by 2035, using 2021 as our base year. We have also committed to measuring and reducing the emissions in our upstream and downstream supply chain (Scope 3).
By setting this clear target that has been independently verified, we are going further than general sustainability promises. This external validation shows that we are taking real, measurable action and making meaningful progress towards Net Zero.
Responsibility for the future
We started seriously looking at our environmental impact in 2009, installing our first HP Latex printer using water-based inks and introducing organised recycling for paper, cardboard and plastics. By 2011 we had replaced all solvent roll-to-roll printers with Latex technology. In 2015 we moved into our purpose-built 21,000 sq ft Cumbrian HQ, designed with sustainability in mind, including LED lighting, air filtration to reduce gas heating, and improved waste compaction and recycling. In 2016 we launched the Ast Network Partner Scheme so we can use local Applicators and reduce travel, and began moving from paper documents to a digital system, becoming fully paperless by 2018. Our HP Latex R2000 Hybrid printer was installed in 2020, completing the move to water-based Latex inks across all our print technology. In 2022 we added 325 solar panels to our HQ roof, saving a predicted 23 tonnes of CO₂ in the first year and 290 tonnes over 25 years, alongside EV charging points and electric vehicles in our fleet. Today we generate almost half of the electricity we use ourselves, and sustainability continues to guide our decisions as we work to drive positive change across the industry, including developing better solutions for sustainable waste processing.
Sustainable Waste Processing
For years, used silicone backing paper was an industry-wide problem with no truly sustainable way to process it. After working with recycling organisations and paper manufacturers, we’ve finally helped find a solution that allows all types of used backing paper to be processed sustainably — and we’re keen to share it across the print industry.
We’re also a FESPA UK Sustainability Partner and hold their waste accreditation certificate. Through their Waste Management Project, FESPA assessed our systems and helped make them even more sustainable. Combined with our efficient manufacturing processes and over ten years of ISO14001, we’re now able to process used backing paper — and most other waste — in a genuinely sustainable way. If you’re in the industry and want to work more sustainably, we highly recommend getting involved with the project.
How does us being sustainable help your business?
Reduced Environmental Impact:
Carbon footprint reduction: We reduce our carbon emissions through sustainable practices, reducing our overall environmental impact.
Improved corporate image: By partnering with Ast, you demonstrate your company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Recycling: Nearly all our waste is now recycled through our waste management accredited recycling scheme.
Cost of Savings:
Competitive pricing: Because we work so sustainably our systems are honed for maximum efficiency and minimum waste – so our pricing is always competitive.
Potential tax incentives: Some councils offer tax incentives or credits to businesses that adopt sustainable practices.
Long-term cost effectiveness: Adopting sustainable practices can lead to long-term cost savings through energy efficiency and reduced waste.
Regulatory Compliance:
Meeting environmental standards: Using Ast can help you stay compliant for Environmental Social Governance (ESG) and avoid potential penalties.
Customer Satisfaction:
Appealing to eco-conscious customers: Partnering with a conscientiously sustainable company like ours can attract environmentally conscious customers.
A Faster Turnaround: We’ve spent years honing our systems for maximum efficiency and minimal waste so our service times are fast.
The Best Warranties in the Industry: We use our own vynils and offer the longest warranties in the industry, so you have peace of mind for the years to come.
Reputation and Leadership:
Industry pioneer: By partnering with Ast you can position your fleet or business as an industry leader in sustainability.
Positive workplace culture: Supporting sustainability initiatives can boost employee morale and help attract top talent.
Looking Forward
Our work to be sustainable continues. This isn’t just a box ticking exercise for us; sustainability has naturally become a factor in every single decision we make and we’re keen to help drive change across our industry too. We’re currently working hard to help find sustainable solutions to industry-wide problems and to lead positive change – read more about the sustainable waste processing we’ve introduced.
This is just the beginning.
