James B.

Head of Sustainability @Ashe Group

Hitchin, GB

Ashe Group is a leading provider of sustainable construction solutions, specializing in delivering innovative, low-carbon building projects and energy-efficient systems. As Head of Sustainability, I develop and introduce policies covering on site generation, site lighting, and waste and recycling to embed improved energy and material. I lead development and execution of Ashe Group’s Sustainability Strategy, embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities across all areas of the business. Created a Net Zero strategy published across all site offices to ensure the business had a clear, actionable path toward sustainability, facilitating buy-in and accountability at all levels. Developed a Carbon Reduction Plan, converting all carbon emissions data into GHG emissions metrics using the GHG Protocol to provide a detailed roadmap with steps and timelines to reach Net Zero. Drove a company-wide shift to low-carbon site operations by embedding a hybrid generator solution, establishing a new standard projected to cut fuel consumption and GHG emissions by 60%. Introduced and enforced new policies and controls to reduce out-of-hours energy consumption across sites, driving a behavioural shift and achieving measurable reductions in unnecessary energy use and associated emissions. Developed the group’s first PPN 06/21–compliant Carbon Reduction Plan by designing and executing a full data collection strategy, laying the foundation for a credible net zero trajectory by 2045. Implemented a dashboard-based utility monitoring system across construction sites, reducing overnight electricity consumption from 50% to < 20% of total consumption, supporting carbon reduction targets. Built the ‘Green Team’ from the ground up to become an autonomous, project-delivering group focused on sustainability initiatives, with plans to empower members to independently lead future projects.