IRISH COMPANIES ACCELERATE THEIR CLIMATE CHANGE AMBITION IN LINE WITH SCIENCE
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IRISH COMPANIES ACCELERATE THEIR CLIMATE CHANGE AMBITION IN LINE WITH SCIENCE CDP Ireland Annual Report 2020 Written on behalf of 590 investors with assets of over US$110 trillion March 2021 Programme Sponsors Report & Event Sponsors Ireland partner to CDP and report writer
CONTENTS CEO Foreword 2 Chairperson, CDP Ireland Network 3 CRH: Stories of a Responder 5 Commentary from EPA 6 Commentary from SEAI 7 Córas Iompair Éireann: First Time Responder 8 Glenveagh Properties PLC: First Time Responder 9 Ireland overview of the 2020 climate change results 10 The CDP Ireland Network update 2020 12 CDP Ireland Network 2020 Events 14 CDP Ireland 2020 - Infographic 18 Investor Perspective, Brian Kennedy, CFA - ESG 20 Stepping up to 1.5°C 22 European Level Policy Update, Mirjam Wolfrum, CDP Europe 24 Appendices28 Important Notice The contents of this report may be used by anyone providing acknowledgement is given to CDP Worldwide (CDP). This does not represent a license to repackage or resell any of the data reported to CDP or the contributing authors and presented in this report. If you intend to repackage or resell any of the contents of this report, you need to obtain express permission from CDP before doing so. Clearstream Solutions and CDP have prepared the data and analysis in this report based on responses to the CDP 2020 information request. No representation or warranty (express or implied) is given by Clearstream Solutions and CDP as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and opinions contained in this report. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice. To the extent permitted by law, Clearstream Solutions and CDP do not accept or assume any liability, responsibility or duty of care for any consequences of you or anyone else acting, or refraining to act, in reliance on the information contained in this report or for any decision based on it. All information and views expressed herein by CDP and Clearstream Solutions is based on their judgment at the time of this report and are subject to change without notice due to economic, political, industry and firm-specific factors. Guest commentaries where included in this report reflect the views of their respective authors; their inclusion is not an endorsement of them. Clearstream Solutions and CDP, their affiliated member firms or companies, or their respective shareholders, members, partners, principals, directors, officers and/or employees, may have a position in the securities of the companies discussed herein. The securities of the companies mentioned in this document may not be eligible for sale in some states or countries, nor suitable for all types of investors; their value and the income they produce may fluctuate and/or be adversely affected by exchange rates. ‘CDP Worldwide’ and ‘CDP’ refer to CDP Worldwide, a registered charity number 1122330 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in England number 05013650. © 2021 CDP Worldwide. All rights reserved. ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 1
CEO FOREWORD As 2021 unfolds, we reflect on the At CDP, we are led by the latest climate challenging and extraordinary times of science. As it evolves, so must we, the last year. As the world worked to ensuring that the right information is collectively respond to the COVID-19 embedded into the capital markets and pandemic, we reeled from the tragic placed into the hands of policymakers human impact of the crisis and its and decision-makers worldwide. CDP’s impact on our health, financial and social systems enable this, and it is particularly systems. Sadly, we are still grappling critical as capital flows seek to transition with these crises, but the rollout of the towards the Net Zero, sustainable vaccine provides great hope for later this economy. year. One thing is certain, we cannot When it comes to climate change, water afford to go back to ‘normal’ from an security and deforestation, we have environmental perspective. Propping up now entered a global emergency and the old system, with impending climate the decade of action, our last chance change hazards increasing, will lock “Disclosure, transparency, data to make rapid and deep cuts to global us into a pathway of even greater risk. and science will be crucial to emissions and to protect biodiversity to Instead, we must reinvent and renew our building a more resilient society. avoid the full force of these other global economy into one with greater resilience As we’ve learned from this current crises. and more inclusivity. pandemic and from climate change, the best time for action is Despite the pandemic, we are bolstered Disclosure, transparency, data and long before the problem becomes by the environmental leadership from science will be crucial to building a more severe. Measuring and managing companies, investors, governments, resilient society. As we’ve learned from environmental risks through cities, and regions worldwide. With so this current pandemic and from climate disclosure helps companies, much at stake and the clock running change, the best time for action is long cities, states and regions to build down, 2020 saw record disclosures before the problem becomes severe. resiliency and plan for the future.” through CDP’s platform, with over 10,000 Measuring and managing environmental entities now disclosing their data on risks through disclosure helps climate change, water security and companies, cities, states and regions to deforestation issues. build resiliency and plan for the future. More than 9,600 companies, worth over We must build back better from the 50% of global market capitalization now COVID-19 pandemic. Our economies, disclose through CDP and corporate societies and livelihoods depend on it. disclosures are up 70% compared to five years ago when the Paris agreement The time for action is now. was formed. This is in addition to the cities, states and regions that disclosed – Paul Simpson, CEO, CDP to us last year. 2 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
CHAIRPERSON SHANE O’REILLY, CHAIRPERSON OF CDP IRELAND NETWORK When we entered into 2020 we had climate policy and action. From the EU a host of critical climate and societal Commission, climate action continues challenges facing us from wildfires in to be in sharp focus and is core to the California and Australia to increased European Green Deal. The ambition to impacts of hurricanes and typhoons be the first climate neutral continent by across affected parts of the globe. The 2050 has inspired numerous national onset of COVID-19 has naturally taken governmental pledges to take similar precedence in our minds and actions. steps and in turn many corporates are As we compile this report, sadly, we also following suit. The intermediate are not out of the woods as yet, with step to 2030 of reducing emissions by vaccine roll out still in its infancy and 55% took a step closer with climate our brave hospital frontline staff facing targets set for 2020 being realised. ever increasing strain on mind, body and resources. The correlation between There is still a long way to go but the “The correlation between COVID-19 and climate change has been Commission is taking action, via the COVID-19 and climate change made over the past year. We knew about initiatives set out in the Green Deal, for has been made over the past year. the likely impact of a global pandemic example, the EU Climate Law enshrining We knew about the likely impact for some time, the signals were clear but the target of carbon neutrality by 2050 of a global pandemic for some we were called wanting when it became into law. Climate change is not only time, the signals were clear but a reality. Similarly, the warning signals about numbers, it is about people and we were called wanting when it from climate change have equally been how to drive awareness, influence became a reality. Similarly, the known for some time now, let’s hope we change and scaled solutions as outlined warning signals from climate are not found wanting! I am confident in the Climate Pact. It is this sense of change have equally been known when we look back on 2021 we shall climate awareness that started to swell for some time now, let’s hope we have more cause for positivity than 2020 in the public conscience in mid to late are not found wanting!" and we shall again return to more usual 2019 via Greta Thunberg and global way of life which hopefully will be a youth movements that will deliver on our greener and more socially inclusive one. climate ambitions. We look to COP26 in November 2021 as the next milestone to The impact of COVID-19 is not only see if COVID-19 has focused minds on having an impact on our people and the interconnected nature of us all and economy but it is starting to impact that the climate change warning signals on the short-term actions needed to are being received. contribute to longer term goals on climate change. A recent report from We can also see clear action on behalf the European Investment Bank (EIB) of our own Government over the has suggested that EU firms could past 12 months. The programme for reduce investment by 25% in the short Government has outlined ambitious term, investment in areas of innovation reduction targets of 7% per annum in and new technologies which are the overall greenhouse gas emissions by cornerstone in facing up to the climate 2030, followed by a net zero economy challenge. by 2050. To give a sense of scale of the ambition, COVID-19 is likely to Despite the EIB early indicators on reduce global CO2 emissions by c.7% potential investment impact due to in 2020 despite the dramatic impact COVID-19 we can look to more positive on global economies. The publication macro indicators when it comes to of the Climate Action and Low Carbon ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 3
In 2020, we were delighted to see Kingspan, ESB, AIB Group, Accenture and Segate Technology awarded A List status, joining only 278 other companies globally, up 150% on 2019. Development (Amendment) Bill is also We would like specifically to recognise Looking ahead to 2021, the CDP Ireland a key positive, outlining our climate Ardagh Group, Applegreen Plc, Cairn Network intends to host another targets and approach to climate action Homes Plc, CIE, Ecocem, Gas Networks series of virtual CDP climate change via the setting of carbon budgets and Ireland, Glenveagh Properties Plc, and supply chain training workshops, strengthening of the Climate Change Greencoat Renewable Plc, Hibernia REIT which are aimed at beginner as Advisory Council powers. While details Plc, John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Ltd, well as experienced responders. are yet to come on specific deliverables, Keelings Group, Kenmare Resources Plc, To find out more about dates and The Climate Action Bill is seen as a Mercury Engineering, Permanent TSB registration, please go to: http://www. positive step, further enhanced by Group Holdings, Ryanair Holding Plc and cdpirelandnetwork.net/ or for regular political consensus that meaningful Uniphar Plc for responding for the first updates, join our CDP Ireland Network action on climate is required. time in 2020. LinkedIn group. The national and regional legislative While a key objective of the CDP Ireland In my second year as Chairperson of the backdrop is a key driver of climate Network is to increase the number of CDP Ireland Network, it was inspiring to action as already outlined but in the companies reporting to CDP, we also aim see an increase in commitment by Irish absence of legislative frameworks as to increase the quality of submissions. companies in disclosing environmental guidance for the most part, companies In 2020, we were delighted to see information and contributing to climate continue to contribute via increasing Kingspan, ESB, AIB Group, Accenture solutions, ensuring water security and levels of disclosure. CDP plays a key and Segate Technology awarded “A list” tackling deforestation. role in these voluntary disclosures. status, joining only 278 other companies Each year CDP supports thousands of globally, up 150% on 2019. Ireland The Network would not be possible companies, cities, states and regions outperforms the global average, with without the continued support of the to measure and manage their risks 11% of the 47 Irish companies measured EPA and SEAI. I would also like to pay and opportunities on climate change, making the ‘A List”, compared to 3% special thanks to Clearstream Solutions water security and deforestation. globally. who act as secretariat to CDP in Ireland More locally, through the CDP Ireland and continue to be strong advocates for Network we encourage and support As discussed in previous reports, the environmental issues nationally. Irish stakeholders to engage with CDP, Supply Chain topic continues to grow increasing Irish business transparency in importance for CDP in general and Finally, I wish to thank the CDP Ireland on environmental performance and for Irish responders alike. This was Network Steering Committee members promoting the image of Ireland as a evidenced with close to over 120 for their valued commitment and sustainable place to do business. attendees registered for the CDP contribution throughout the year. Supply Chain workshop delivered by The CDP Ireland Network is pleased Clearstream Solutions in 2020, up 70% Shane O’Reilly to report that the total number of local on prior year. - Chairperson of CDP Ireland Network. and multinational companies reporting emissions in Ireland now stands at Overall, supply chain responders globally 257. This is an important distinction have also grown from about 2,000 in to make given the open economy Irish 2010 to over 7,000 in 2020. This is an companies operate in with over 42 Irish important distinction to make given companies responding via CDP Supply the open economy Irish companies Chain Program to their customers’ operate in with over 42 Irish companies requests for climate data.The total responding via CDP Supply Chain number of Irish companies responding Program to their customers’ requests to the climate change programme in for climate data. 2020 was 47, up from 31 in 2019. 4 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
CRH: STORIES OF A RESPONDER At CRH, we are across the globe. As the world’s leading building materials business, we are Providing nature–based solutions, such as sustainable urban drainage committed to acutely aware of the scale of the systems, is an example of how our emissions challenge facing the 21st products work in tandem with nature climate action Century. This informs our passion for to provide solutions to climate related delivering products that enhance the risks. Our products can also contribute through our resilience of urban landscapes and to more energy-efficient buildings. processes, products contribute to a net-zero carbon, circular built environment. Simultaneously, we Examples include high performance building envelope solutions, concrete and relationships. acknowledge our responsibility to reduce our direct and indirect emissions. vaulted ceilings with improved thermal comfort and construction accessories that deliver energy savings. Concrete is A fundamental stepping-stone on the identified as one of the most sustainable road to attaining our 2050 ambition building materials when evaluated on has been the adoption of a science- a life-cycle basis. Durable, resilient and based approach to emissions reduction recyclable, concrete absorbs CO2 from targets. We achieved our 2020 CO2 the atmosphere over the course of its reduction commitment a year ahead lifetime, with most recarbonation taking of schedule and we are now working place during appropriate recycling. towards our 2030 target, using a CO2 Concrete has an important role in Our 2050 ambition is to achieve emissions reduction roadmap that fulfilling the ambitions of the UN SDGs, carbon neutrality along the cement and is in line with the goals of the Paris as innovations across areas such as concrete value chain. This is testament Agreement. Achieving our 2030 target sustainable cities and communities, to our sustainable business practices will lower our carbon footprint and climate-smart industries and responsible which foster an ethos of collaboration we recognise that delivering on our consumption can all be positively and innovation within our global CRH 2050 ambition requires a wider, value- impacted by building solutions. community, spanning 200 companies chain based, collaborative approach. at over 3,100 locations. Participating in Therefore, we are working closely with At CRH, we have a strong record of CDP is supportive to our stakeholder our industry partners and stakeholders transparent reporting on sustainability. engagement as it ensures openness and to accelerate global collaboration on Our first annual independently-assured transparency around the progress we innovative technologies, strategies and CRH Sustainability Report was published are making. policies, as well as to develop actions in 2005 and we are a long-time and measurable milestones that support responder to CDP. Our investors and Physical and transitional risks from our common goals of a net zero built customers are increasingly using the climate change pose threats to environment. information we publish on climate to societies, ecosystems and economies make business decisions, as they move from commitment to focussed climate action. We understand the challenges they face in developing quantitative models to compare risks, strategies, metrics and targets across sectors and industries. That’s why we are proud to support the Task Force on Climate- related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and participate in working groups to further develop common approaches for disclosure of relevant, robust and comparable data. As the urgency of the climate challenge is increasingly recognised, transparency will continue to underpin our approach to climate action. ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 5
COMMENTARY FROM EPA LAURA BURKE Addressing the causes and consequences As we emerge from the global pandemic of climate change represents a multi- Ireland needs a green recovery to rebuild our generational challenge, with the scale of the economy, generate new jobs and respond responses needed being determined by the to climate change. ‘Green’ stimulus and effectiveness of actions taken now and in the ambitious measures will be needed to coming years. The next decade needs to be meet Ireland’s commitments for a climate- one of major developments and advances neutral economy by 2050. Creating a in relation to Ireland’s response to climate resource efficient economy and resilient change. Full and early implementation of society requires rapid and far-reaching LAURA BURKE ambitious policies and measures can deliver transformation across all sectors including Director General, Ireland’s current and future commitments energy, transport, land use and industry. Environmental Protection Agency to be a climate neutral economy and climate resilient society by 2050. However, Changes in business practices are needed to EPA greenhouse gas projections show the drive the adoption of low-carbon products, difficulties that Ireland faces in achieving even services and technologies. We know that our current obligations of a 30% reduction in early actions will lead to more cost-effective “As we emerge from the global emissions by 2030. decarbonisation and so a priority focus pandemic Ireland needs a green on upskilling and innovation will be vital to recovery to rebuild our economy, In January, the EPA and SEAI published support early movers in this area. generate new jobs and respond to an assessment of the impact of Covid-19 climate change.“ restrictions on Ireland’s greenhouse gas Leadership from industry frontrunners such emissions in 2020. These estimate a 6% as the CDP Ireland Network membership will reduction in greenhouse gas emissions be key in delivering these changes across the relative to 2019. This is largely because of the economy. The data generated by participating dramatic changes in our economy and how companies in preparing their response we lived, worked and travelled as a result of for CDP provides great insight into where Covid-19 restrictions. Overall, the reduction emissions arise across the organisation. As is comparable to that seen following the such, the underlying strength of disclosure is global financial crisis. However, the expected about using this process as a framework for economic rebound after the pandemic driving change. In the context of transforming is estimated to bring emissions back to to a carbon-neutral economy, it is good to see previous levels, unless additional action is a strong increase in Irish companies reporting taken. It goes without saying that short- through CDP and also the high quality of term emissions reductions due to a global these disclosures. EPA is pleased to continue pandemic do not negate the need for targeted its support for the network and its promotion and sustained action across all sectors. & training activities. We are now at a pivotal point for our economy, and the recovery steps we take will shape Ireland for the next decade. While these early estimates show a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for 2020 as a result of Covid-19 restrictions, this level of emission reductions, at a minimum, will be required annually. 6 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
COMMENTARY FROM SEAI WILLIAM WALSH to December. This of course will rebound over We are scaling up our role in research and time as the economy reopens, to what extent innovation, community-based retrofit and is uncertain. Although this is primarily driven renewable energy, rollout of electric vehicles by restrictions in human and commercial and microgeneration. In 2021, we will be movement with corresponding reduction designated as the Market Surveillance in transport emissions, we have an all-new Authority for eco-design and energy labelling. appreciation of how Covid-19 has forced a We are also scaling up significantly our mindset of resilience across society requiring supports to business, industry and to the us to adopt, or to invent, new systems of public sector. WILLIAM WALSH work and innovation emerges. The dilemma CEO, Sustainable of having to overcome a very significant Our support programmes for business and Energy Authority of Ireland disruption event and to recover to take full industry are particularly relevant to the CDP advantage of positive change, rather than network and to its supply-chain in Ireland. We reverting to the past is to be reflected. Climate will focus on a strong pipeline of projects over change on the other hand has crept up on the coming years, engaging with projects of society, evolved and hasn’t presented in such scale through our EXEED program and our “Our support programmes dramatic form across the globe. Be assured Support Scheme for Renewable Heat. EXEED for business and industry are however, it is set to be the biggest disruptor focuses on the lifecycle impact that added particularly relevant to the CDP for generations to come. And our response, in investment in energy efficient design will network and to its supply-chain the form of a green economy is to be the next provide across new, repurposed, and major in Ireland. We will focus on a wave of innovation. upgrade projects. The support scheme for strong pipeline of projects over renewable heat provides financial incentives the coming years, engaging with In the USA, it is heartening to see the changes when switching from fossil-fuel heating projects of scale through our that the Biden-Harris administration are systems to renewable heating systems using EXEED program and our Support expected to lead. Their re-entry into the biomass or heat pumps. I would encourage Scheme for Renewable Heat." Paris Agreement, commitment to a green members to engage with SEAI to learn more economy and to environmental justice is a about these programmes that are guaranteed strong and necessary undoing of the previous to add value and help incentivise better administration. investment. At home, the Programme for Government The 2020 report of CDP showcases the commits a national emissions target of excellent improvement within the network 7% annual reduction to 2030. It is a strong in Ireland. We congratulate CDP and its commitment and will be enshrined in the membership for these results and commend new Climate Bill and delivered through the its work in this important area of carbon updated Climate Action Plan. The Sustainable disclosure, promoting responsible investment What a difference a single year makes Energy Authority of Ireland is responsible There is absolutely no doubt that 2021 across many cross-cutting policy actions. We hope that in the spirit of collectively will be remembered in history. We see first-hand the heightened levels of tackling climate change that we can challenge collaboration and commitment to emissions ourselves to new forms of engagement and We remain in the Covid-19 pandemic and it action, previously siloed and compromised. collaboration, new strategy and ideation, will likely stay with us throughout 2021 and new innovation and investment in the green probably beyond in some guise. Covid-19 I am happy to inform that SEAI is taking economy, new systems of working that puts calibrates an understanding what 7% savings an increasingly significant role in scaled- us on a pathway to a zero-carbon future. per year equates in terms of societal change. up action to a low carbon society. We are The recent joint publication between SEAI and designated as the National Retrofit Delivery the EPA reported a 5.9% emissions reduction Body that will support up to 500,000 through the restrictions imposed from March domestic retrofits over the coming decade. ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 7
CÓRAS IOMPAIR ÉIREANN: FIRST TIME RESPONDER Transporting Ireland towards a sustainable future With over 10,500 employees and a national group operations for Scope 1 and 2 and network of bus and rail services, we have guidance in assessing Scope 3 emissions a unique opportunity to address national and to develop a process for working with economic, social and environmental suppliers. In line with CAP 2019, CIÉ has challenges. We value our role in connecting been working to reduce total CO2 emissions towns, cities and communities and are by 30% and energy efficiency savings of working to protect the natural capital adjacent 50%, against 2005 levels, by 2030. Since to our network. Focusing on the challenge of 2005, our annual reporting has provided tackling climate change, we aim to become data on meeting these targets however, the a fully sustainable and circular business, CDP reporting framework facilitates a more CAOIMHE DONNELLY working closely with the National Transport focussed analysis of activities, structures and Chief Sustainability Officer Authority and the Department of Transport to behaviours that improve performance. The deliver innovation in low-emissions transport CDP platform provides resources and insights services and to decouple growth in public into economic and sector-specific climate transport and carbon emissions. The Group innovation and international standards is working to meet public sector climate for best practice climate governance. Our targets for 2030, with renewed resolve to employees and customers are the backbone achieve the climate targets which enable of our service and Clearstream’s expertise Ireland’s carbon neutrality by 2050. supported CIÉ to develop a multi-functional, cross-organisational approach, ensuring Enhancing disclosure is a central pillar of our broad participation, awareness, and buy-in at climate action strategy. Reporting through all levels of the Group. CDP offers an opportunity for increased transparency and provides a roadmap to Lorcan O’Connor, Group Chief Executive of move from a position of management to CIÉ stated “the collaborative approach across increased climate leadership. Opting for a our companies enabled us to fully capture globally recognised, independent disclosure our performance and plans and indicates the system, CDP has enhanced environmental commitment of our people to sustainability reporting; established a benchmark for and how central our colleagues will be – from performance; and given insight in best frontline to boardroom – in achieving our practice carbon management. CDP offers goals. We look forward to working to meet Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ), founded in 1945 a robust, independent and accountable our ambitions and that of our customers and is the largest provider of public transport in methodology that aligns to international stakeholders, in ensuring climate resilience Ireland. The CIÉ Group (“the Group”) provides best practice and the EU Taxonomy for non- in the provision of public transport across essential, sustainable services across a financial climate disclosure. The framework Ireland.” nation-wide network, carrying over 280m promotes strong governance for managing passengers in 2019. uncertainty around climate related risks and opportunities and provides a structure to raise CIÉ’s commitment to sustainability is outlined awareness and enhance performance. in the Group’s ‘Sustainability Strategy 2020’ which represents a plan of action for the CIÉ Our colleagues across the Group worked Group of companies, including Dublin Bus, closely with Clearstream Solutions, an expert Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann. At the core carbon management service provider and of our strategy is a commitment to support secretariat for the CDP Ireland Network, the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals to develop a rigorous first-time response (SDGs); to meet the targets set out in the that reflected the significant climate action Climate Action Plan (CAP) 2019; and to deliver progress and ambition of the Group’s the objectives of the National Development operating companies. The process involved Plan. an assessment of our carbon footprint for 8 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
GLENVEAGH PROPERTIES PLC: FIRST TIME RESPONDER The Irish housing market has been Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions for the first chronically undersupplied for many years, time – and to ensure we continue to operate creating profound structural challenges for in a socially responsible and ethical way. As our economy and for our people. The biggest part of our environmental strategy, we have pinch point is affordable homes for first time also set an emissions reduction target for buyers and young families. 2025 with a view to fully align our following target with a global aspiration of net zero We believe that everyone should have greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. access to high-quality homes in flourishing communities, and we are determined that We are in the process of aligning our our contribution to that great endeavour is sustainability strategy with the UN’s delivered the context of the highest standards Sustainable Development Goals and the of environmental stewardship requirements of the Task Force on Climate- and responsible business. related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). We also CONOR MURTAGH reported our approach to the management Director, Strategy & IR At Glenveagh, we are passionate and of environmental risk via CDP for the first pragmatic about creating a positive time in FY20 and have included Sustainability environmental, social and economic legacy Accounting Standards Board (SASB) for future generations. Our is passion is disclosures as part of our first sustainability manifested by the sheer scope of the topics report. we are managing and monitoring, whilst our pragmatism is evident from our rigorous Key attractions of disclosing through CDP management approach. include its comprehensive disclosure framework and alignment with TCFD, with Our ambition is to set a new benchmark the work completed transferable to other Key attractions of in our sector by delivering the maximum reporting areas in a PLC environment. CDP possible social benefit at the lowest possible provided Glenveagh with a platform to put our disclosing through environmental cost. This is consistent with climate initiatives in context for investors and CDP include its our broader business vision which is to create the leading sustainable homebuilding ratings agencies. comprehensive platform in Ireland. All these measures are merely steppingstones on the journey towards our goal of class disclosure framework During FY20 we began to put in place leading standards of environmental and social and alignment with systems to measure and reduce our impact on the environment – including reporting responsibility. TCFD, with the work completed transferable to other reporting areas in a PLC environment Glenveagh Properties plc, listed on Euronext Dublin and the London Stock Exchange, is a leading Irish homebuilder dedicated to expanding access to high-quality new homes, with a focus on first time buyers and young families. ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 9
IRELAND OVERVIEW OF THE 2020 CLIMATE CHANGE RESULTS New Responders 2020 Top 10 AIB Group Plc1 Applegreen Plc Accenture 1 Cairn Homes Plc Kingspan Group Plc 1 CIE Irish Companies by score ESB Group 1 Ecocem4 Seagate Technology Plc1 Gas Networks Ireland 1 Listed on the CDP 2020 A list. Mainstream Renewable Power Glenveagh Properties Plc The other top 10 Irish companies received an A- Smurfit Kappa Group Plc Greencoat Renewable Plc 2 Ardagh Group is a first time An Post Hibernia REIT Plc CDP Climate Change responder Ardagh Group2 John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Ltd 3 Johnson Controls International Plc is new to the Ireland results Johnson Controls International Plc3 Keelings Group but is a long time Climate Change responder Kenmare Resources Plc Ecocem has reported in Mercury Engineering 4 previous years, but not in 2019 Permanent TSB Group Holdings Plc Ryanair Holding Plc Uniphar Plc Over 11 Million tonnes of 42 Irish companies scope 1 + Scope 2 emissions completed a CDP Supply reported in Ireland Chain response 52% increase in the 63% of Ireland top 30 number of Irish companies companies reported to reporting CDP CDP in 2020 The analysis presented in this report is a brief summary of a Ireland’s top 30 companies responding to CDP, while this figure subset of the data available through CDP. We encourage all was only 30% five years ago. readers of this report to view the full corporate responses individually from our website. Enhanced and unlimited If we look at the total number of Irish companies who received access to the data is available through the CDP analytics a performance score, we see that 68% achieved a B- or higher tool which makes benchmarking and trend analysis simple in 2020, up from only 35% in 2017. This compares favourably via a series of interactive dashboards and export functions. to 35% in Europe and 25% Globally. Continuous improvement Different versions of the tool are available for investors and by Irish responding companies is reflected in higher scores. In companies. Visit www.cdp.net to find out more. 2020 29% of Irish responding companies received a leadership score of an A or A-, this represents a 21% increase on the In 2020, a total of 257 companies reported to the CDP Climate previous year. The focus for performance oriented companies Change programme that are either headquartered or operating in 2021 will be on setting Science Based Targets, setting a in Ireland. There were 47 Irish companies who reported as part Carbon Price and increasing Supplier Engagement. 17% of Irish of this group, an increase of 52% on 2019. This includes 17 companies for example have set a Carbon Price, compared new responders in 2020 which is an unprecedented increase to 13% in Europe and 9% Globally. The percentages are a little compared to previous years and reflects the significant shift lower for Science Based Targets. in sustainability reporting that has occurred among Irish companies. Ireland now has five companies on the CDP A list The CDP Supply Chain programme had collected responses which consists of only 278 companies globally. For the first from 42 Irish companies, a 17% increase on 2019. This time all the other companies in the top 10 Irish companies programme is a key driver for CDP and will be a vital tool in list achieved an A-. Significantly, in 2020 we now have 63% of achieving reductions in supply chain emissions in the future. 10 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
Chart 1: Average Scope 1 and 2 Emissions by reporting companies with operations in Ireland tCO2e 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 70,000 80,000 2020 50,483 2019 66,228 2018 74,680 *Only public responses used for calculation Chart 2: The total number of companies, with operations in Ireland, reporting to CDP 100 125 150 175 200 225 250 275 300 2020 257 2019 274 2018 257 230 Chart 3: Scope 1 Total number of companies that provided emissions Scope 2 data on their Irish operations by sector 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 40 50 60 80+ | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Biotech, Healthcare & Pharma Food, Beverage & Agriculture Manufacturing Retail Services Other 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 40 50 60 80+ ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 11
THE CDP IRELAND NETWORK UPDATE 2020 IRISH COMPANIES ACCELERATE THEIR CLIMATE CHANGE AMBITION IN LINE WITH SCIENCE Over 9,600 In 2014, following discussions with CDP and several leading Irish organisations, attending conferences and events on behalf of CDP, representing CDP on companies with over we successfully launched the ‘CDP industry and Government initiatives, and Ireland Network’, working in partnership the organisation of local CDP marketing 50% of global market with CDP Europe and funded by the and online networks. capitalization disclosed generous support of SEAI and EPA. Key achievements in 2020 The overall objective of this initiative is environmental data to motivate as many Irish companies Corporate environmental change through CDP in 2020. as possible, public and private, as well as multi-nationals based in Ireland to disclosure is now firmly a Boardroom disclose their Climate Change, Forest issue for Irish organisations. Encouraged and Water Security strategies, providing by investor scrutiny, customer CDP Ireland Network Purpose a consistent approach to corporate competitive focus and pushed by EU sustainability reporting in Ireland. regulation, the topic of climate change CDP is a global non-profit that runs We have seen the growth in companies has moved from the sustainability the world’s environmental disclosure reporting their emissions in Ireland grow office onto the board room table and system for companies, cities, states and from less than 80 in 2010 to over 250 is now an integral part of the annual regions. Founded in 2000 and working in 2020. reporting cycle of many Irish companies. with over 590 investors with $110 trillion 2020 saw a significant increase in the in assets, CDP pioneered using capital Our CDP Ireland Network has attracted numbers of Irish companies disclosing markets and corporate procurement to over 1,000 participants to our events to CDP and outlining how they address motivate companies to disclose their and training and currently has over 130 climate change in their businesses, environmental impacts, and to reduce Linked In network followers. We continue products and supply chains. Despite greenhouse gas emissions, safeguard to bring together Irish corporate leaders the challenges of Covid-19, there water resources and protect forests. in sustainability and other stakeholders was a massive 52% increase in Irish Over 10,000 organizations around the to share best practice in addressing companies reporting to CDP in 2020. world disclosed data through CDP climate change. The steering committee in 2020, including more than 9,600 consists of representatives from the Irish The companies are scored based companies worth over 50% of global divisions of reporting companies, and on CDP’s transparent scoring market capitalization, and over 940 representatives from public and private methodology covering: comprehensive cities, states and regions, representing bodies with an interest in environmental disclosure of environmental impacts, a combined population of over 2.6 issues. Our Chair and Vice-Chair serve risks, opportunities, governance and billion. Fully TCFD aligned, CDP holds the for 1-2 years; Shane O’Reilly of KPMG is actions; awareness of environmental largest environmental database in the our current Chairperson, and Eoin Fahy risks and how they relate to their world, and CDP scores are widely used from KBI Investors is our Vice Chair. business; demonstrating management to drive investment and procurement of these environmental risks and decisions towards a zero carbon, The role of the CDP Ireland Steering evidence of best practice associated sustainable and resilient economy. CDP Committee is to promote and support with environmental leadership. is a founding member of the Science measurement, disclosure and reporting Based Targets initiative, We Mean of environmental data across a network Fueled by initiatives such as the Task Business Coalition, The Investor Agenda of interested companies. This is Force on Climate Related Disclosure and the Net Zero Asset Managers achieved through a range of activities (TCFD), the Science Based Targets initiative. Visit cdp.net or follow us as defined by the steering committee; Initiative (SBTi), Carbon Pricing, RE100 @CDP and on LinkedIn to find out more. activities to promote and raise and local initiatives such as BITCI’s Low awareness of environmental issues, Carbon Pledge, companies now have a hosting of best practice workshops, clearer pathway as to what actions need to be taken. 12 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
The market demand for corporate environmental transparency is louder than ever: 590 investors with $110 trillion in assets, and 150+ large purchasers with US$4 trillion in buying power requested thousands of companies to disclose through CDP in 2020. They use CDP data, including scores, to inform their investment and procurement strategies. Leading environmental action is correlated with financial success. The CDP A List companies are combined worth US$15 trillion in market value. Data from STOXX has shown that the CDP ‘A’ List has outperformed its global reference index by an average of 5.3% per annum over a 7-year period. 4 Irish companies achieved an ‘A’ score in 2020. Some highlights from 2020 Over 250 global companies now report their Irish We continue our outreach to cooperate with other emissions to CDP under the Climate Change like-minded organisations. We are actively working program and 47 Irish owned or registered with The Dublin Chamber of Commerce and other companies are now also reporting. networks to share best practice and have again supported BITCI in its Low Carbon Pledge initiative. The focus on environmental issues grows despite challenges of Covid-19, with an increase of 48% in In September, we hosted a high-profile Supply Chain Irish companies reporting to CDP in 2020. Event with excellent contributions from leading supply chain organisations including Microsoft 5 Irish companies - AIB Group, Kingspan, ESB, and Kellogg. Accenture and Segate Technology - were scored “A” for their climate change responses. In terms of Training, we once again hosted our very successful annual CDP Reporter training in May Ireland outperforms the global average, with 11% 2020. Anja Chodosh from CDP, supported by Gráinne of the 47 Irish Companies measured making the ‘A McIvor and Brian O’Kennedy from Clearstream List’, compared to 3% globally Solutions delivered a very informative session for both experienced, as well as new responders. Watch Two first time responders, CIE and Glenveagh out for our 2021 training programmes in April and Properties Plc scored a ‘B’ in 2020, an exceptional May. score for new participants. We now have over 130 members on our LinkedIn While Investors are key influencers driving publicly group ‘CDP Ireland Network’ and a growing Twitter quoted organisations to respond, there has been an following @CDPIrelandnet. Please follow us for increasing interest from private companies to use details on upcoming training and events. CDP as a framework to inform and develop their internal environmental strategies. New responders in this category included, Mercury Engineering, Ecocem, Sisk & Sons and Keelings. We continue to update our website Encouraged by the Irish Government’s Climate Strategy, an increasing number of semi state and www.CDPIrelandNetwork.net public sector organisations responded in 2020. where you will find this report. These include CIE, Gas Networks and ESB. Your input is always welcome, and We have continued our close cooperation with we can be contacted at brian@ Sustainable Nation, hosting the Corporate clearstreamsolutions.ie or via our Sustainability event during its highly successful social media links above. ‘virtual’ Climate Finance Week in November. Our ‘Carbon Targets towards Net Zero’ event was extremely well attended. It included contributions from CDP, DWS, Kerry Group and AIB. ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 13
CDP IRELAND NETWORK 2020 EVENTS CDP Ireland Network 2019 Report Launch Keynote Professor John FitzGerald — Chair, National Advisory Council on Climate Change. Panel Session Moderator Shane O’Reilly — Chair, CDP Steering Committee 2019 | Professor John FitzGerald — Chair, National Advisory Council on Climate Change Samantha Fahy – Sustainability Manager, DCU | Padraig Mallon — Sustainability Director, Kerry Group | Catherine Moroney President, Dublin Chamber & Head of Supply Chain Event Business Banking, AIB. Managing and Reporting your Value Chain Emissions – A focus on Scope 3 emissions Scope 3 Demystified Gráinne McIvor Clearstream Solutions, Hugo Ernest- Jones | CDP Supply Chain EMEA Lead and our expert Panel Ken O’Farrell, Microsoft, Director of Fulfilment and Logistics and Dave Fitzgerald | Kellogg, Head of Responsible Sourcing Europe Climate Finance Week Event Carbon Targets towards Net Zero Keynote by Paul Dickinson, Chair of CDP Worldwide with investor perspective provided by Murray Birt ESG Analyst at DWS and a panel which included Juan Aguiriano, Group Head of Sustainability, Technology Ventures at Kerry, Sarah Dempsey, Head of Sustainability Communications & Partnerships, AIB In partnership with Sustainable Nation Ireland and Sponsored by AIB Photography by: Julien Behal 14 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
A LIST MEDIA COVERAGE 2020 Companies criticised Project) measures the environmental impact or companies on behalf of It said companies that fail to disclose their environmental impact will be at over reporting of 515 global investors representing a disadvantage, given the importance emissions $106trn in assets, who increasingly of climate change to their investors, include so called environment, social customers, and employees. By Peter Hamilton and governance (ESG) among their – Irish Examiner 25/02/20 investment criteria. alongside more Several leading Irish companies such as Permanent TSB, Cairn Homes, traditional targets around profitability. Ireland outperforms the global State’s climate inaction Flutter Entertainments and Ryanair average, with 8pc of the 48 companies sets tone for business have been named and shamed for measured here making the ‘A List’, not reporting their green-house gas It would be foolish to suggest that Fine compared to 5pc globally. There has emissions. Gael was punished by the electorate for been a 50pc increase in the number failing to act on climate change. CDP, a not-for-profit organisation that of Irish companies reporting to CDP in measures companies’ environmental 2020. Globally. AstraZeneca. HP, Mars, Similarly, the EU fines coming our impact, highlighted those prominent and Toyota are among multinationals way for failures in relation to our 2020 names in its report which found that that made the ‘A List’. emissions and renewable energy the average Irish company reduced its targets are unlikely to be too punitive, — Irish Independent 09/12/2020 CO2 emissions by 11 per cent last year. probably in the region of €150 million. Among the top performers in the 4 Irish firms make For nearly a decade, the government had delivered an entirely bogus survey were Kingspan, AIB, Kerry Group, Smurfit Kappa and CRH. global climate A list message of activism on the climate issue while effectively sitting on its CPD’s analysis has found that 215 of By Ailbhe Daly hands, a stance linked to the agendas the biggest global companies estimate FOUR Irish companies have made a of two of the State’s largest lobby the financial implications of climate global environmental A List. Kingspan, groups – the Irish Farmers’ Association risks to be close to $1 trillion. ESB, AIB Group and Accenture have (IFA) and employers’ group Ibec. “That’s the scary challenge, but the been named on the list by CDP, the A report by not-for-profit organisation good news is that forward-thinking EU-funded charity which runs the CDP on Irish-headquartered companies companies are taking action and global reporting system. The A List reporting on their carbon emissions setting emissions reductions targets names the companies leading on was published yesterday. Among the that are grounded in climate science” environmental transparency and action, top performers were listed companies said Paul Simpson, CDP’s chief based on annual disclosure through the Kingspan, AIB, Kerry Group, Smurfit executive yesterday. questionnaire. Kappa and CRH. CDP Ireland Network Chairman Shane — The Irish Times 25/02/20 There were, however 25 companies O’Reilly, said: “It is a tremendous who were asked to respond and didn’t achievement for four Irish companies ESB joins firms with to obtain A List status. “There is for whatever reason. These included top green grade increasing recognition that companies Cairn Homes, Flutter Entertainment (owner of Paddy Power), Permanent who fail to disclose their environmental By Donal O’Donovan TSB and Ryanair. impact will be at a competitive disadvantage.” A key takeaway was that internationally AlB. Accenture. ESB and Kingspan have been given ‘A’ rankings by CDP. focused companies were more likely to — Irish Daily Mirror – 09/12/2020 an EU-funded charity which runs the be active on climate issues, while those with a domestic focus were likely to be global environmental reporting system. It is ESB’s first time getting the “A” Rise in Irish firms found wanting. rating. The A List ranks environmental reporting emissions — The Irish Times 25/02/20 transparency and action based on The number of Irish-headquartered companies’ annual disclosure through companies reporting on their carbon CDP’s Climate Change questionnaire. emissions rose 11% last year to 31, AIB Group, Accenture, Kingspan and with Kingspan, Kerry Group, and AIB ESB are scored ‘A’ for climate change. among the top performers according to CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure CDP Ireland Network. ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 15
CDP Ireland Network Aims and Objectives To drive action by companies and cities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, safeguard water resources and prevent the destruction of forests. To promote, encourage and support Irish stakeholders to engage with CDP and other organisations seeking to minimise environment impacts. To increase Irish organisations’ transparency on environmental performance in order to enhance resilience and comparability. To make environmental performance central to investment and business decisions. To share best practice in GHG management and policy from both Irish and international organisations. To provide a common and consistent framework for Irish companies to measure and report their GHG emissions. Assist in promoting the image of Ireland as a sustainable place to do business and to help our companies to achieve a competitive advantage from their initiatives by sharing global best practice. 16 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
STEERING COMMITTEE 2020 We would like to express our appreciation to the EPA and SEAI for their continued financial support and participation in the Network. We would also like to thank Kingspan, CRH and AIB for their support in publishing and hosting this report launch. Our Chairperson for 2020 was Shane O’Reilly KPMG, who will hand over the reins in 2021 to Eoin Fahy of KBI Global Investors. Last year we welcomed one new CDP Ireland Steering Committee member; Kathy Ryan from Irish Life Investment Managers. Thanks again to all our committee members for their dedication and input. Shane O’Reilly Caroline Pope Shane Colgan Padraig Mallon Bianca Wong KPMG KPMG EPA Kerry Group Kingspan Group Plc Eoin Fahy Outi Marin Cormac Madden John O'Sullivan Stephen Nolan KBIGI Smurfit Kappa Plc ESB SEAI Sustainable Nation Ireland Emma Jane Joyce Kathy Ryan John Barcroft Sarah Dempsey Brian Kennedy NTMA Irish Life Investment The Environmental AIB Davy Managers Edge Executive Support Brian O’Kennedy Gavin Whitaker Muriel de Bakker Clearstream Clearstream CDP Solutions Solutions Disclosure Support To assist with the increasing volume of activity in Ireland, we are delighted to announce that CDP has appointed Muriel de Bakker as CDP Disclosure Support Executive with responsibility for addressing responding companies’ queries in relation to their annual disclosures. Muriel, based in Berlin, will assist Irish companies in engaging with the CDP platform and will work with the CDP Ireland Muriel de Bakker Network and Clearstream Solutions to accelerate the growth in the number of responding companies across all CDP programs. Muriel replaces Olwen Smith +4930629033183 who has left CDP to return closer to home. Thank you Olwen for all your support. muriel.deBakker@cdp.net ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 17
47 Irish Companies who responded in 2020 ARDAGH GROUP EXPERIAN GROUP MEDTRONIC PLC KENMARE RESOURCES PLC DALATA HOTEL GROUP FBD HOLDINGS PLC UDG HEALTHCARE PLC TOTAL PRODUCE PLC PERMANENT TSB BANK OF MAINSTREAM RENEWABLE POWER GROUP HOLDINGS PLC IRELAND GAS NETWORKS APPLEGREEN PLC IRELAND RYANAIR KINGSPAN PERRIGO GLANBIA PLC KERRY GROUP PLC GROUP PLC COMPANY PLC HOLDING PLC SEAGATE GROUP KEELINGS ORIGIN ENTERPRISES PLC CORAS IOMPAIR EIREANN GROUP (CIE) GREENCOAT RENEWABLE PLC SMURFIT KAPPA JAMES HARDIE ECOCEM TECHNOLOGY PLC CAIRN HOMES PLC GROUP PLC INDUSTRIES DCC PLC TULLOW OIL AN POST M50 CONCESSION LTD. GLENVEAGH GREENCORE RAND CO. LTD. HIBERNIA INGERSOLL- ACCENTURE ESB PROPERTIES PLC REIT PLC GROUP PLC DUBLIN CITY JOHNSON CONTROLS UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL PLC GROUP UNIPHAR PLC CRH (HOLDINGS) AIB JOHN SISK & SON LTD C&C GROUP PLC PLC ARYZTA AG MERCURY GROUP PLC ALLEGION PLC 63% 257 of Ireland’s Top Companies reporting to CDP with operations 30 listed companies in Ireland 18 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
21 Irish companies have committed to setting IRELAND’S A LIST COMPANIES a Science Based Target AIB Group Plc Accenture A 91% INCREASE ESB Group FROM 2019 Kingspan Group Plc Seagate Technology Plc 52% increase in Irish companies responding to CDP Climate Change in 2020 42 CDP Supply Chain responders in Ireland in 2020 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND 19
INVESTOR PERSPECTIVE BRIAN KENNEDY, CFA - ESG & CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGIES AT DAVY 2020 can be looked back on as a year Looking forward to 2021, the pace when sustainable investing became of regulation for asset managers will mainstream with total assets in be dizzying as the Sustainable Fund European sustainable funds crossing Disclosure Requirements roll out by the USD1 trillion threshold in the fourth March 10. These will be followed in quarter of 2020, according to numbers short order by the now infamous Level from Morningstar. In Q3 alone, EUR50 2 Adverse Impact Indicators related to billion flowed into European sustainable Sustainability Impact Requirements. funds. For context, this represented 40% Let’s not forget preparation for the of all European fund flows. These figures disclosures related to the EU Sustainable are especially remarkable given the Finance Taxonomy in January. A busy “An overarching goal of this uncertain backdrop created by COVID. year awaits. regulatory agenda is to provide There is now a broad recognition that transparency to an occasionally generating excellent investment returns, An overarching goal of this regulatory opaque sustainable investment and providing a social or environmental agenda is to provide transparency to industry. In much the same way good, do not need to be mutually an occasionally opaque sustainable as consumers are able to evaluate exclusive activities. For those who recall investment industry. In much the same the energy efficiency of household a time when sustainable investing was way as consumers are able to evaluate appliances, soon we should be perceived as existing on the lunatic the energy efficiency of household able to more easily ascertain how fringe, there can be pride that the appliances, soon we should be able to sustainable a fund really is.” industry has matured in the way it has. more easily ascertain how sustainable a fund really is. This growth has been backboned by a supportive regulatory regime These changes are welcome as, given underpinned by the EU Green Deal. the growth in the industry, many funds It was refreshing to see a significant have been quick to make bold claims portion of funds under the EU COVID about their sustainability credentials. recovery plan allocated to green However, any credibility may disappear investment, supporting not just once their investment objective or renewable energy but also areas such as process of selecting investments is energy efficiency. We wait in hope that closely scrutinised. In 2020 alone, this progressive approach is mirrored according to Morningstar, 330 new across the Atlantic under the Biden sustainable funds were launched in administration. Europe. Given the array of funds now available to investors, it is imperative to the future health of the industry that investors can have trust that the fund they have selected does what it claims to do. 20 ANNUAL REPORT | CDP IRELAND
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