The James Mercer Group Ltd is a small to medium-sized, family owned, (SME) Mechanical and Electrical Building Services company based in Preston, Lancashire. We are committed to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040 or sooner.
We specialise in Industrial and Commercial Building Services, carrying out:
- Mechanical and Electrical installation contracts ranging from £20k to £4m in value.
- Building services reactive and planned maintenance.
We employ around 200 employee’s and operate from two offices:
- Our Head Office in Preston, Lancashire.
- Our Regional Branch Office in Liverpool.
Operating across the North West of England, usually within a 90-mile radius of our Head Office, we aim to reduce our environmental impact by working efficiently and prioritising the use of local subcontractors and suppliers to minimise travel emissions and support sustainable regional growth.
Our fleet consists of 102 vehicles, including company cars and small commercial vans. We recognise the reduction in fuel consumption as one of the main targets of our reduction plan.
We maintain strong working relationships with local businesses, suppliers and subcontractors supporting a resilient, regionally based supply chain where possible.
We began our journey into scrutinising our Environmental performance in 2009 working towards, and achieving ISO14001 accreditation. Since then, we have strived to set annual targets and gain continual improvements in our environmental performance monitoring KPI’s through our management systems.
Having already achieved some of our goals we calculated our carbon emissions in 2023 as our baseline year in order to then set carbon reduction targets for future years.
In this Carbon Reduction Plan, we will present our most recent current carbon footprint figures calculated for the calendar year 2024, outline our future targets with projected completion dates, and detail the reduction projects we are undertaking.
We will also explain how we are tracking and reporting our emissions data, and confirm our chosen approach in exploring carbon offsetting options. Our commitments will be set out across short, medium, and long-term goals.
We recognise the important role our business plays in supporting the UK’s response to COP26 and the broader national effort to achieve Net Zero. To measure and manage our emissions, we will use the three recognised scopes of carbon reporting:
- Scope 1 – Direct emissions from our owned or controlled sources.
- Scope 2 – Indirect emissions from the electricity we purchase and use.
- Scope 3 – Other indirect emissions.
Baseline Carbon Footprint – Our 2023 Results
The James Mercer Group Ltd calculated its corporate carbon footprint (CCF) for the period January to December 2023 in collaboration with Climate Partner and following the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. This includes Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
Our Total Emissions in 2023 were 631.79 tonnes CO₂e
This is equivalent to the annual footprint of 73 average European citizens.
Note:-
Our 2023 results cover some scope 3 categories not required as part of PPN 06/21 therefore a like for like comparison is only applicable against 6 emissions liabilities; Natural Gas (Scope 1), Refrigerant Leakage (Scope 1) , Fleet Fuel (Scope 1), Electricity (Scope 2), Business Travel (Scope 3) and Employee Commuting (Scope 3). Therefore for comparison our results are as follows:-
|
2024 Emissions Liability Breakdown |
2023 Comparison |
||||
|
Source |
Scope |
tCo2e |
% of total |
2023 tCo2e |
% diff. |
|
Natural Gas |
Scope 1.1 |
27.89 |
5.52% |
29.00 |
-3.83% |
|
Refrigerant Leakage |
Scope 1.2 |
35.83 |
7.09% |
35.83 |
0.00% |
|
Fleet Fuel |
Scope 1.3 |
354.65 |
70.21% |
367.08 |
-3.38% |
|
Electricity |
Scope 2 |
13.51 |
2.67% |
25.28 |
-46.58% |
|
Upstream T&D |
Scope 3.4 |
2.98 |
0.59% |
– |
– |
|
Waste Generated |
Scope 3.5 |
10.16 |
2.01% |
0 |
N/A |
|
Business Travel |
Scope 3.6 |
13.91 |
2.75% |
16.32 |
-14.74% |
|
Employee Commuting |
Scope 3.7 |
43.24 |
8.56% |
37.51 |
15.29% |
|
Downstream T&D |
Scope 3.9 |
2.98 |
0.59% |
– |
– |
|
|
Total |
505.16 |
100% |
511.02 |
-1.15% |
The overall reduction of 1.15% in total carbon emissions compared to 2023 (from 511.02 tCO₂e to 505.16 tCO₂e) reflects modest but positive progress in emissions management. Notably, the most significant reduction occurred in electricity-related emissions (Scope 2), which fell by 46.58%.
Emissions from fleet fuel (Scope 1.3) and natural gas (Scope 1.1) also decreased by 3.38% and 3.83% respectively, suggesting either reduced consumption or enhanced operational efficiencies. Emissions from fugitive gases (Scope 1.2) remained unchanged, implying stable air-conditioning-related losses.
Employee commuting emissions (Scope 3.4) increased by 15.29%, potentially reflecting a post-COVID return to office-based work or increased business activity. Business travel (Scope 3.3) saw a 14.74% decrease, possibly due to continued use of virtual meetings.
Waste emissions were newly reported at 10.16 tCO₂e, whereas in 2023 scope 3 emissions from waste were not reported.
Emissions from upstream and downstream transportation and distribution have been estimated at 30% of business travel emissions allocated evenly as 15% each. This approach accounts for travel to potential or pre-contract customers (upstream T&D) and to existing customers (downstream T&D). The James Mercer Group acknowledges that this is an estimate and is committed to improving the accuracy of these figures over time. However, we believe this represents a reasonable reflection of current activity.
The 2023 emissions inventory included several sources not required under PPN 06/21 and omitted some that are mandatory. As a result, there is only partial alignment between the 2023 and 2024 inventories. Specifically, only six emissions sources are directly comparable across both years, limiting the ability to draw full year-on-year comparisons. The 2024 inventory has been refined to better reflect the requirements of PPN 06/21 and improve reporting consistency going forward.
The table below shows the comparison of the 6 aligned emissions sources.
|
Source |
tCo2e |
2023 tCo2e |
% diff |
|
Natural Gas |
27.89 |
29.00 |
-3.83% |
|
Refrigerant Gas |
35.83 |
35.83 |
0.00% |
|
Fleet Fuel |
354.65 |
367.08 |
-3.38% |
|
Electricity |
13.51 |
25.28 |
-46.58% |
|
Business Travel |
13.91 |
16.32 |
-14.74% |
|
Employee Commuting |
43.24 |
37.51 |
15.29% |
|
Total |
489.04 |
511.02 |
-4.30% |
The table shows that if only these 6 emissions sources were compared with 2023 tco2e output dropped by 4.3% during the 2024 reporting period.
OUR AIMS AND TARGETS
As part of the continual improvement process that our ISO14001 accreditation ensures we look forward setting short, medium and long-term goals for improvement in the future, working towards a carbon neutral goal.
We recognise our responsibility to decarbonise and commit to playing our part in the UK’s response to COP26.
Some of our initial targets have already been achieved, such as:
- Gaining ISO 14001 accreditation in 2009 and maintaining continual improvements each year since.
- Annually reviewing our Aspects and Impacts register to set annual objectives, KPI’s and targets.
- Incorporating Environmental targets into our management programmes and ensure their progress is tracked through to Board level.
- Implementing a Hybrid Working Policy allowing home working and reducing unnecessary travel.
- Conducting Environmental Risk Assessments on all our sites.
- Developing vehicle purchasing polices ensuring the most carbon neutral options are considered.
- Using resources such as our registrations to Supply Chain Sustainability school and Net Positives to assist in formulating action plans and stimulate thought on improvement topics.
- Ensuring our waste management companies are able to provide accurate data to be translated into our carbon calculations.
Our future aims are as follows:
Short Term (by 2026):
- Focus on construction site set up procedures, investigating options for eco-friendly cabin and welfare facilities.
- Keep up to speed with industry developments in environmentally friendly products and equipment.
- Ensure staff are trained and competent to advise clients on up to date environmentally friendly options relating to the services we offer.
- Further use of our Vehicle tracking systems to monitor driving styles and fuel consumption.
- Investigate net zero electricity tariffs to substantially reduce co2e from purchased electricity, this combined with solar PV could significantly reduce overall co2e output.
Medium Term (by 2030):
- Transition all company vehicles to electric, as soon as supporting infrastructure is available (currently predicted by 2030).
- Install photovoltaic (PV) cells and explore battery storage at offices to achieve Summertime self-sufficiency in energy.
- Compensate for remaining emissions by investing in environmental initiatives.
- Replace our office heating plant with energy-efficient Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP), eliminating natural gas use.
Long Term (by 2040):
- Achieve Net Zero carbon emissions, 10 years ahead of the UK’s 2050 global target.
REDUCTION PROJECTS
Our focus on our ISO 14001 environmental accreditation has assisted in developing systems to ensure that our business, employees, and supply chain minimise our impact on the planet.
As part of the continual improvement process encouraged by the accreditation, we look forward to setting future goals aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.
To fully understand our environmental impact, we undertake an annual aspects and impacts assessment, which identifies key focus areas within our operations. This assessment is conducted using a risk assessment template, with all areas of the business thoroughly scrutinised to ensure completeness. The assessment highlighted some potential areas for improvement; as a result, our initiatives include, but are not limited to:
- Monitoring waste levels from our offices and sites, diverting 100% of waste from landfill.
- Installing daylight-dimming, low-energy LED lighting and water management systems in offices and site accommodation.
- Generating accurate data for carbon footprint monitoring and management.
- Using live vehicle tracking to improve efficiency and eliminate wasted journeys.
- Increasing the number of fully electric company cars in our fleet consequently reducing fuel consumption. Currently 90 % of our company car fleet are electric or hybrid.
ASSISTING CLIENTS WITH THEIR CARBON REDUCTION OBJCTIVES
The James Mercer Group Ltd can play a vital role in helping clients transition to Net Zero Carbon through several key approaches to aid Energy-Efficient Heating and Carbon Reduction Solutions. We offer tailored, sustainable upgrades to client buildings.
To aid Energy Efficiency & Boiler Optimisation we can: –
- Conduct comprehensive energy audits to identify inefficiencies.
- Provide advice and installation services in upgrades to high-efficiency condensing boilers to reduce gas consumption.
- Implement burner modulation, flue gas recirculation, and heat recovery systems.
- Optimise boiler sequencing and controls to match actual heating demand.
- Install intelligent heating controls integrated with the Building Management System (BMS) for real-time performance monitoring and weather compensation.
To assist clients in their transition to Low-Carbon Heating Solutions we can: –
- Deploy hybrid heating systems combining gas boilers with air or ground-source heat pumps for lower emissions.
- Support integration with district heating networks.
- Use solar thermal collectors to preheat water, reducing gas demand.
- Install hydrogen-ready boilers in line with the UK Hydrogen Strategy and assess biogas or hydrogen blend feasibility for existing systems.
Provide proactive Maintenance & Long-Term Support: –
- Using IoT and AI-driven predictive maintenance to detect inefficiencies early.
- Offering 24/7 emergency support to minimise downtime and energy waste.
- Providing training for university facility managers on sustainable boiler operation.
Offering a structured Boiler Maintenance Plan: –
Our comprehensive service plan enhances energy efficiency and reduces costs by optimising system performance, preventing breakdowns, and extending boiler lifespan:
- Routine Maintenance: Regular cleaning, tuning, and component replacement prevent efficiency losses caused by dust, debris, and wear. Maintaining correct pressure and temperature settings avoids energy waste, while early detection of faults like gas leaks reduces unnecessary fuel consumption. Routine servicing can improve boiler efficiency by up to 15%.
- System Optimisation & Smart Controls: Pressure balancing, burner and control upgrades, and BMS integration automate and refine heating, reducing fuel consumption by 5-10%. Thermostat calibration ensures precise temperature control.
- Preventative Maintenance: Addressing minor issues proactively cuts emergency repair costs by 50%, extends boiler lifespan by 5–10 years, and minimises downtime.
- Heat Recovery & Environmental Impact: Flue gas heat recovery captures wasted heat, improving efficiency by 10–20%. Well-maintained boilers emit less carbon, supporting Net Zero goals and compliance. We also provide personalised energy-saving recommendations during servicing.
Our service plan helps clients achieve up to 30% fuel and energy cost savings, extend boiler lifespan, and reduce their carbon footprint.
OFFSETTING
The James Mercer Group Ltd is currently investigating all available options open to us to offset our carbon footprint. In keeping with our Social Value Policy and commitments we aim to identify areas where this could also directly enhance the environment in the immediate area of our operations.
COMMITMENTS
The James Mercer Group Ltd is fully committed to achieving the targets set out in this Carbon Reduction Plan and, where possible, delivering improvements ahead of schedule. We recognise our responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and continuously improve our environmental performance as part of our contribution to the UK’s Net Zero goals.
This plan forms part of our wider sustainability strategy and reflects our long-term commitment to carbon reduction, innovation, and responsible business practices. Progress against these targets will be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.
As Managing Director of The James Mercer Group Ltd, I confirm that this Carbon Reduction Plan has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of PPN 06/21 and the accompanying guidance on Carbon Reduction Plans.
We have reported our emissions in accordance with the GHG Reporting Protocol – Corporate Standard, using the latest UK Government conversion factors for greenhouse gas reporting.
Our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions have been reported in line with the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework. A relevant subset of Scope 3 emissions has also been included, in accordance with the Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard and PPN 06/21 guidance.
This Carbon Reduction Plan has been formally reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors and reflects our organisation’s commitment to responsible Environmental Management.
Signed
Andrew Moxham
Managing Director
Date: April 2025