1: Introduction

1.1 Policy Overview
United Civils Limited recognises its responsibilities under environmental legislation and is committed to minimising the environmental impacts of its groundworks and civils operations. This Policy outlines how United Civils Limited integrates environmental protection into its business practices, consistent with the principles of ISO 14001:2015 and relevant UK environmental laws.

1.2 Statement of Intent
United Civils Limited commits to managing its operations in a way that protects the environment, prevents pollution, and contributes to sustainability. Through continuous improvement and practical measures suitable for the scale of our business, we aim to meet or exceed environmental performance expectations.

2: Purpose

2.1 Objectives of the Policy
This Environmental Policy is established to:

2.1.1 Ensure compliance with applicable environmental legislation, regulations, codes of practice, and industry standards.
2.1.2 Promote sustainable resource use by reducing waste, conserving energy, and minimising emissions.
2.1.3 Prevent environmental pollution through effective control measures and risk-based decision-making.
2.1.4 Educate and engage employees and subcontractors on environmental awareness and responsibility.

3: Scope

3.1 Applicability
This Policy applies to all operations and activities undertaken by United Civils Limited, including offices, construction sites, storage areas, and any location where groundworks and civils services are delivered.

3.2 Responsibility
All employees, contractors, and suppliers engaged by United Civils Limited are required to comply with the principles of this Policy. Specific responsibilities are assigned as outlined below.

4: Environmental Responsibilities and Commitment

4.1 Management Commitment

4.1.1 The Managing Director, Scott Bland, holds overall responsibility for the environmental performance of United Civils Limited.
4.1.2 The HSEQ Consultants and Competent Persons, SEHSS Limited, is responsible for providing advice, monitoring compliance, and supporting the implementation of environmental controls.

4.2 Legal and Regulatory Compliance

4.2.1 United Civils Limited will comply with all applicable environmental laws, including the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011, Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001, and relevant HSE guidance.
4.2.2 Environmental permits, licences, and consents will be maintained and adhered to, as applicable to our operations.

4.3 Waste Management

4.3.1 Waste will be managed according to the waste hierarchy: Prevent > Reduce > Reuse > Recycle > Dispose.
4.3.2 Only licensed waste carriers will be used, and waste transfer documentation will be retained.
4.3.3 Segregation of waste (e.g., soil, concrete, metals) will be carried out where practicable.

4.4 Pollution Prevention

4.4.1 Measures will be in place to prevent contamination of land, air, and water — including proper storage of fuels, chemicals, and hazardous substances.
4.4.2 Spill kits will be maintained on all sites and staff will be trained in their use.

4.5 Resource Efficiency

4.5.1 United Civils Limited will use energy, water, and materials efficiently in all operations.
4.5.2 Vehicle and machinery use will be managed to minimise idling, reduce emissions, and limit fuel consumption.

4.6 Biodiversity and Site Protection

4.6.1 United Civils Limited will take reasonable steps to protect flora, fauna, and watercourses near its sites.
4.6.2 Work will be planned to minimise disruption to local wildlife and habitats, especially in sensitive areas.

4.7 Training and Awareness

4.7.1 All employees and contractors will be given environmental awareness training during induction and toolbox talks.
4.7.2 Site-specific environmental risks will be communicated clearly, and responsibilities assigned.

4.8 Monitoring and Reporting

4.8.1 Environmental inspections will be conducted periodically by the HSEQ Consultant or delegated site supervisors.
4.8.2 Non-conformances or incidents will be recorded and investigated with appropriate corrective actions taken.

5: Implementation Strategy

5.1 Practical Measures

5.1.1 Basic Environmental Risk Assessments will be completed for each project/site.
5.1.2 Environmental control measures will be proportionate to the scale and location of each job.
5.1.3 Subcontractors will be expected to comply with this Policy and may be removed from site for repeated breaches.

5.2 Communication

5.2.1 This Policy will be shared with all employees, contractors, and interested parties upon request.
5.2.2 A copy will be available at the main office and on-site notice boards, where applicable.

6: Performance Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

6.1 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

To evaluate our environmental performance, the following KPIs will be monitored:

6.1.1 Volume of waste produced per project.
6.1.2 Percentage of waste diverted from landfill.
6.1.3 Number of environmental incidents or near-misses.
6.1.4 Fuel consumption trends across company vehicles and machinery.

6.2 Continuous Improvement

6.2.1 Opportunities for improving environmental performance will be identified during routine reviews.
6.2.2 Lessons learned from incidents or complaints will inform future procedures.

7: Policy Review

7.1 This Environmental Policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are significant changes in legislation, operations, or environmental aspects.
7.2 The review will be led by the HSEQ Consultants in collaboration with the Managing Director.
7.3 Any changes will be approved by Scott Bland and communicated to all relevant parties.
7.4 Feedback from staff and subcontractors is encouraged to improve the effectiveness of this Policy.

8: Legal and Regulatory Considerations

8.1 This Policy aligns with ISO 14001:2015 and complies with relevant UK environmental laws and best practice guidance from the Environment Agency and HSE.
8.2 United Civils Limited remains committed to staying informed of changes in legal requirements and industry standards.