1: Introduction

1.1 Policy Overview
United Civils Limited recognises its responsibility to operate sustainably and ethically, ensuring that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles are embedded in its operations. This Policy outlines our commitment to responsible business practices that deliver long-term value to clients, employees, communities, and the environment.

1.2 Statement of Commitment
United Civils Limited commits to conducting business in a way that minimises environmental harm, supports social equity, and upholds the highest standards of governance. We recognise the importance of sustainability not only for regulatory compliance, but also as a strategic advantage and moral obligation.

2: Purpose

2.1 Objectives of the Policy
The purpose of this Policy is to:

2.1.1 Embed ESG principles in business strategy, culture, and daily decision-making.
2.1.2 Support sustainable construction practices within groundworks and civils projects.
2.1.3 Promote ethical governance, fair treatment of workers, and positive community impact.
2.1.4 Ensure transparent reporting and continuous improvement of ESG performance.

3: Scope

3.1 Applicability
This Policy applies to all employees, subcontractors, and supply chain partners engaged with United Civils Limited.

3.2 ESG Focus Areas
The Policy addresses:

• Environmental: Resource use, waste, emissions, biodiversity.

• Social: Workforce welfare, local engagement, equality.

• Governance: Ethics, accountability, transparency, compliance.

4: Environmental Sustainability

4.1 Resource Efficiency

4.1.1 Energy, fuel, and water will be used efficiently throughout all site and office operations.
4.1.2 Where possible, low-carbon options and sustainable materials will be selected.

4.2 Waste Management and Circular Economy

4.2.1 Waste will be reduced through efficient planning and application of the waste hierarchy.
4.2.2 Reusable materials will be salvaged and re-integrated where feasible.

4.3 Carbon Emissions and Pollution Reduction

4.3.1 Machinery and vehicle usage will be managed to minimise emissions through route planning, reduced idling, and maintenance.
4.3.2 Tools and materials will be consolidated to minimise transport impacts.
4.3.3 United Civils Limited aims to measure its carbon footprint on key projects and explore reduction opportunities.

4.4 Biodiversity and Habitat Protection

4.4.1 Work near sensitive environments will consider protection of local flora and fauna.
4.4.2 Any ecological constraints (e.g., nesting seasons, protected species) will be incorporated into planning.

5: Social Responsibility

5.1 Workforce Welfare

5.1.1 Employees and subcontractors will be treated fairly, with respect, and provided with safe working conditions.
5.1.2 All workers will be paid at least the national minimum wage and have access to required welfare facilities on site.

5.2 Health, Safety and Wellbeing

5.2.1 Health and safety is a core value of United Civils Limited, supported by robust site management and risk controls.
5.2.2 Mental health and wellbeing will be promoted through supportive leadership and signposting to professional resources.

5.3 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

5.3.1 The company is committed to equal opportunities and non-discrimination regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background.
5.3.2 Recruitment and promotion decisions are based on merit and business need.

5.4 Community Engagement

5.4.1 United Civils Limited will maintain good relations with local communities during works.
5.4.2 Disruption will be minimised through effective communication and considerate practices on site.

6: Governance and Ethical Conduct

6.1 Business Integrity

6.1.1 United Civils Limited conducts its business ethically, with zero tolerance for bribery, fraud, or corruption.
6.1.2 All staff must act with honesty and uphold the reputation of the company.

6.2 Compliance and Accountability

6.2.1 Legal and regulatory requirements will be met in all jurisdictions where the company operates.
6.2.2 The company will maintain records to demonstrate compliance with tax, employment, environmental, and safety laws.

6.3 Supply Chain and Procurement

6.3.1 Suppliers and subcontractors are expected to align with the ESG values of United Civils Limited.
6.3.2 Preference may be given to local, ethical, or environmentally responsible providers.

6.4 Transparency and Reporting

6.4.1 United Civils Limited will maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders regarding ESG performance.
6.4.2 Any allegations of misconduct, environmental harm, or unsafe practice will be investigated and addressed.

7: Roles and Responsibilities

7.1 Scott Bland, Managing Director

7.1.1 Responsible for ESG leadership and oversight, including resource allocation and policy approval.
7.1.2 Promotes sustainability awareness at all levels of the business.

7.2 SEHSS Limited, HSEQ Consultants and Competent Persons

7.2.1 Supports implementation of environmental and social controls.
7.2.2 Monitors compliance, performance, and coordinates reviews of this Policy.

7.3 Employees and Subcontractors

7.3.1 All site operatives must follow ESG practices relevant to their work, including safe waste handling, respectful behaviour, and honest conduct.
7.3.2 Concerns or improvement suggestions should be reported to supervisors or Kevin Sanders.

8: Performance Monitoring and Improvement

8.1 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

United Civils Limited will monitor selected ESG performance indicators, including:

8.1.1 Waste volumes and recycling rates.
8.1.2 Fuel consumption trends.
8.1.3 Near-misses and health & safety statistics.
8.1.4 Workforce diversity (where data is voluntarily provided).
8.1.5 Number of complaints or commendations from the community or clients.

8.2 Continuous Improvement

8.2.1 The company will review lessons learned from projects to improve ESG outcomes.
8.2.2 Reasonable goals for sustainability will be set each year, appropriate to the size and capacity of the business.

9: Policy Review

9.1 This Policy will be reviewed annually or upon any major changes to legislation, business operations, or ESG priorities.
9.2 The review will be conducted by SEHSS Limited and signed off by Scott Bland.
9.3 Updates will be communicated to employees, subcontractors, and stakeholders as appropriate.

10: Legal and Regulatory Considerations

10.1 This Policy aligns with the UK Companies Act 2006 (as amended by the Companies (Miscellaneous Reporting) Regulations 2018), ISO 26000, ISO 14001, and recognised ESG best practices.
10.2 United Civils Limited remains committed to operating in an environmentally, socially, and ethically responsible manner within the limits of its business scale and resources.