Sustainability Advisory
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SUSTAINABILITY CREATING THE SOCIAL IMPACT
Sustainability Advisory
Climate change is the defining challenge of our generation—and companies around the world are stepping up with ambitious net zero commitments. Our climate and sustainability consulting team helps clients turn those pledges into action.
5.1 Sustainability Strategy Advisory
Overview
Our Approach
Defining Sustainability Vision, Strategy, and Ambition
A successful sustainability strategy begins with a clear vision and purpose. We work closely with clients to define their sustainability ambitions, rooted in long-term value creation. By assessing material ESG topics specific to their industry, we help set actionable, measurable sustainability goals. This step includes building an authentic sustainability narrative that aligns with the company’s values, helping them communicate their commitment both internally and externally.
Making the Core Business Sustainable
Next, we help companies enhance the sustainability of their existing operations. This includes identifying opportunities to decarbonize processes, engage suppliers to build sustainable supply chains, and incorporate circularity into product and service design. We provide practical solutions to minimize environmental impact while capturing value from sustainable practices—whether through energy efficiency, waste reduction, or resource optimization.
Driving New Sustainable Growth
Sustainability transformation opens up new growth opportunities. SSTC helps clients innovate sustainable business models by developing new products, services, or ventures focused on sustainability—such as green tech, renewable energy solutions, or climate-positive initiatives. We identify opportunities in emerging markets, leveraging sustainability trends to generate growth, maximize margins, and create long-term business value.
Enabling the Sustainability Transformation
To successfully scale sustainability efforts, companies must have the right operating model, capabilities, and governance structures. SSTC supports this transformation by integrating data and analytics tools to measure, report, and manage ESG metrics effectively. We also assist in cultivating strategic partnerships and building ecosystems that drive innovation and collaboration, ensuring clients can maintain and expand their sustainability initiatives over time.
Impact to Clients
5.2 ESG Disclosures
Our ESG Disclosures Advisory Services include
5.2.1 GRI Standards: Global Reporting Initiative
Overvew
Our Approach
Guide organizations in adopting GRI standards for sustainability reporting.
Support integration with existing management systems.
Assist in data collection and reporting processes, ensuring compliance with the GRI framework.
Impact to Customers
➺ Improved transparency and accountability in reporting.
➺ Enhanced stakeholder trust and engagement.
➺ Better alignment with global sustainability expectations.
5.2.2 ESRS E1 Compliance: European Sustainability Reporting Standards
Overvew
Our Approach
Support organizations in implementing ESRS E1 guidelines for sustainability reporting.
Provide solutions to help collect, analyze, and disclose the necessary sustainability data.
Ensure compliance with European regulations, particularly in logistics and transport sectors.
Impact to Customers
➺ Streamlined regulatory compliance.
➺ Enhanced visibility of sustainability performance in the European market.
➺ Improved transparency in sustainability practices.
5.2.3 IFRS S1 & S2 Guidelines: International Financial Reporting Standards for Sustainability Disclosures
Overvew
Our Approach
Guide companies through the adoption of IFRS S1 & S2 standards for environmental impact reporting.
Provide assistance in embedding sustainability data into financial reports.
Align corporate governance and financial transparency with global accounting standards.
Impact to Customers
➺ Improved integration of environmental impacts with financial disclosures.
➺ Enhanced credibility and compliance with international accounting standards.
➺ Better alignment with stakeholder expectations on sustainability practices.
5.2.4 TCFD Recommendations: Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures
Overvew
Our Approach
Assist in aligning organizational strategies with TCFD guidelines.
Develop tailored reports for stakeholders on climate risks, opportunities, and governance processes.
Support implementation of risk assessment tools and climate-related financial disclosures.
Impact
➺ Increased credibility with investors and stakeholders.
➺ Better identification and management of climate-related financial risks.
➺ Improved long-term strategic planning with integrated climate considerations.
5.2.5 Sustainable Value Creation (WEF): World Economic Forum
Overvew
Our Approach
Use the WEF framework to design strategies that balance economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.
Implement stakeholder engagement and materiality assessments.
Measure the impact of sustainability initiatives on both profitability and societal well-being.
Impact
➺ Improved decision-making and sustainable business models.
➺ Long-term growth that considers environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
➺ Enhanced brand reputation as a socially responsible company.
5.3 Net Zero Carbon
Overvew
Net zero commitments are crucial to mitigating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future. Businesses that set net zero targets and transition to cleaner, more sustainable operations can benefit from improved brand reputation, better compliance with regulations, enhanced risk management, and new market opportunities. Our services help organizations define their net zero vision, set clear and actionable targets, and develop effective transition plans that align with the science-based requirement of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
We guide clients through the essential steps, from defining emission reduction goals and developing 1.5°C-aligned transition plans to implementing strategies that drive sustainability across their entire value chain. SSTC ensures that businesses not only meet net zero requirements but do so in a way that enhances long-term business resilience and value creation.
| Requirements For Net Zero Commitments | UN HLEG, 2022 UN EXPERTS | ISO Net Zero Guidance | UN Race to Zero | SBTI | Corporate Climate Responsibility Monitor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overage of emission scopes | All Scopes | All Scopes | All Scopes | Over 90% across all scopes | All Scopes |
| Intervals of interim targets | 5 years | 2-5 years | Not Specified | 5-10 years | 5 years |
| Recommendation to align with 1.5°C compatible pathways | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum reduction for ‘credible net zero’ | Not Specified | Over 95% including scope 3 for most sectors | Not Specified | Over 90% over 72% for Forest, and Agriculture sector | Over 90% |
| Specific requirements to set 1.5°C aligned emission reduction targets to 2030 | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Yes | Yes |
| Specific requirements for transition plans and/or key mitigation areas to 2030 | Yes | Yes | Not Specified | Not Specified | Yes |
| Fossil fuel phase-out | Required | Required | Required | Not Specified | Required |
| Aligning lobbying & advocacy | Required | Required | Required | Not Specified | Not Specified |
Our Approach to Net Zero Carbon Advisory
Step 1: Quantification of Baseline and Annual Emissions
In the first step, we assess the company’s current carbon footprint to establish a baseline for emissions across all scopes—Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3. We use globally recognized tools and methodologies to measure and quantify direct and indirect emissions, ensuring accuracy and consistency. The quantification process helps us set the foundation for realistic and actionable emissions reduction targets.
Tools Used: ISO 14064-1
For quantifying and reporting greenhouse gas emissions and removals. GHG Protocol: To define and measure Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
ISO 14067
For assessing the carbon footprint of products and services. Industry Specific Quantification Methodology : ISO 14083 Standards & GLEC Framework, ISO 16759:2013 etc
Step 2: Defining the Net Zero Vision and Targets
Once the baseline emissions are quantified, we help clients define clear, measurable targets for achieving net zero. Using science-based frameworks, we ensure the targets align with a 1.5°C-compatible pathway and are set in line with industry best practices. We then break these targets into interim milestones for the short-term (2030) and long-term (2050), allowing companies to track progress effectively.
Tools Used: Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi)
To set science-based targets that align with the 1.5°C pathway. Global Carbon Atlas: For access to emission data and setting targets based on global emission reductions.
Step 3: Developing 1.5°C-Aligned Transition Plans
We work with clients to create tailored transition plans, incorporating specific decarbonization strategies that align with 1.5°C emissions reduction goals. This involves identifying mitigation areas, such as energy, transportation, and supply chains, and developing actionable roadmaps for implementing sustainable practices. Our transition plans are grounded in data-driven methodologies to ensure feasibility and scalability.
Tools Used: The Pathways to 1.5°C (TPT) Methodology
To align transition plans with the 1.5°C climate goal, ensuring the decarbonization strategies are scientifically robust. RE100 & EP100 Initiatives: For renewable energy targets and energy productivity improvements. Circular Economy Tools: To design waste reduction and recycling strategies in the business model.
Step 4: Aligning Advocacy, Lobbying, and Industry Standards
We guide clients in aligning their corporate lobbying and advocacy efforts with global sustainability objectives, ensuring their actions support policies and frameworks that drive the transition to net zero. This includes engaging in climate-focused coalitions, supporting policies like carbon pricing, and advocating for clean energy.
Tools Used: UN Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
For guiding companies in aligning advocacy with sustainable investment goals.CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project): To enhance transparency in emissions reporting and advocate for climate-related financial disclosure.
Step 5: Monitoring, Reporting, and Continuous Improvement
We implement robust systems for tracking annual emissions reductions, enabling clients to monitor their progress toward their net zero targets. By using data and analytics tools, we ensure businesses stay on track to meet their targets while providing transparency through regular reporting.
Tools Used
GHG Protocol: For ongoing emissions tracking and reporting, especially for Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. CDP & Global Reporting Initiative (GRI): For transparent sustainability reporting and progress tracking. SBTi Tracking
Impact to Our Clients
5.4 Voluntary Carbon Markets Advisory
Overview of Our Advisory Services
With a growing demand for transparent, high-integrity carbon credits, it’s vital for organizations to ensure they’re not only purchasing carbon credits effectively but also preparing and managing projects that generate high-quality credits. SSTC works with businesses to support the development of their carbon credit projects by meeting the necessary standards and methodologies required for credible carbon credit issuance.
Our advisory services align with internationally recognized standards, including the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM), the Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative (VCMI), Verra, Gold Standard, and National Registries.
Key Components of Our Carbon Market Advisory
Impact to Our Clients
Through SSTC’s Carbon Market Advisory services, clients gain the expertise and support necessary to not only purchase high-integrity carbon credits but also develop their own projects that contribute to measurable climate mitigation. By preparing their projects in line with global standards, organizations can:
➺ Generate high-quality carbon credits that meet additionality, permanence, and verification requirements of industry-leading programs.
➺ Ensure projects are financially viable and environmentally impactful, contributing effectively to global climate goals.
➺ Navigate complex regulatory and verification processes seamlessly, from feasibility studies to post-issuance monitoring.
➺ Unlock new revenue streams from carbon credit sales while aligning with broader net zero strategies.
➺ Support global decarbonization by financing projects that drive local sustainable development and climate action.
By working with SSTC, organizations ensure that their carbon credit projects are credible, impactful, and aligned with the latest standards, enabling them to make a meaningful contribution to the global fight against climate change.
5.5 Low Carbon Solutions
Low Carbon Solutions Advisory: Green Building Materials and Construction
Overview
The building and construction industry can significantly lower its carbon impact by using low-carbon building materials (such as cement, concrete, steel, and ceramics) and optimizing construction practices. Our advisory services help clients prioritize sustainability, ensure compliance with green building standards, and incorporate Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) into their decision-making process. EPDs provide detailed insights into the environmental impact of materials, supporting transparency and enabling informed decisions to reduce overall carbon emissions.
SSTC’s Low Carbon Solutions Advisory focuses on:
➺ Assist clients in selecting and sourcing low-carbon materials.
➺ Conduct carbon footprint assessments for sustainable decision-making.
➺ Design energy-efficient, environmentally responsible buildings.
➺ Support project certification and compliance with green building standards.
➺ Provide guidance on effective carbon offset strategies.
➺ Incorporate EPDs to clearly and credibly communicate environmental impacts.
Key Components of Our Low Carbon Solutions Advisory
5.5.1 Low-Carbon Material Selection and Sourcing
We assist clients in selecting low-carbon alternatives to traditional building materials, focusing on reducing embodied carbon and improving sustainability. Materials include:
➺ Promote low-carbon cement and concrete through geopolymer cement, recycled aggregates, and sustainable alternatives.
➺ Prioritize energy-efficient steel manufacturing and low-emission ceramic production.
➺ Recommend bio-based insulation and sustainably sourced timber for reduced carbon footprints.
5.5.2 Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)
At SSTC, our approach to Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) involves a systematic and transparent process to assess, verify, and communicate the environmental impact of building materials. The goal is to ensure our clients can make data-driven decisions to select sustainable materials and meet green building standards. Here’s a streamlined overview of our approach:
➺ Step 1: Gather comprehensive lifecycle data, covering raw materials, manufacturing, transportation, use, and disposal.
➺ Step 2: Calculate key environmental metrics like GWP, embodied carbon, and resource use, ensuring alignment with ISO 14025.
➺ Step 3: Facilitate third-party verification to ensure compliance with ISO 14025 and Product Category Rules (PCRs).
➺ Step 4: Assist in publishing verified EPDs on industry databases and certification portals for transparency and informed decision-making.
5.5.3 Designing Low-Carbon, Energy-Efficient Buildings
SSTC collaborates with architects and engineers to integrate low-carbon design principles into building projects. This includes:
➺ Passive Design: Utilize natural resources like sunlight and wind to minimize energy demand efficiently.
➺ High-Performance Insulation: Select materials and systems that effectively reduce energy loss.
➺ Energy-Efficient Systems: Implement LED lighting, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and smart building technologies for optimized energy use.
➺ Green Certifications: Support clients in achieving LEED and other sustainability-aligned certifications.
5.5.4 Sustainable Construction Practices
We guide clients in adopting sustainable construction processes to further reduce emissions during the building phase, including:
➺ Waste Reduction: Implement strategies to minimize construction waste through reuse and recycling programs.
➺ Low-Emission Equipment: Recommend machinery and equipment with low-emission engines to reduce site emissions.
➺ Modular & Prefabricated Construction: Promote these methods to reduce material waste and enhance energy efficiency.
5.5.5 Carbon Offset Strategies
Impact to Our Clients
SSTC’s Low Carbon Solutions Advisory delivers valuable benefits to businesses in the construction and real estate sectors by enabling them to integrate low-carbon solutions that support both environmental and financial sustainability. Through our advisory services, clients can:
➺ Lower Carbon Emissions: Reduce the carbon footprint of building materials and construction processes, contributing to global decarbonization efforts.
➺ Achieve Green Building Certifications: Obtain certifications like LEED to enhance credibility and attract environmentally conscious stakeholders.
➺ Access Cost Savings: Benefit from long-term energy savings, reduced waste, and lower operational costs with energy-efficient materials and designs.
➺ Enhance Transparency: Utilize EPDs and life-cycle assessments to clearly communicate environmental impacts, building stakeholder trust and engagement.
➺ Improve Market Competitiveness: Position your organization as a leader in sustainable development, attracting eco-conscious clients, tenants, and investors.
➺ Future-Proof Against Regulations: Stay ahead of evolving sustainability regulations and industry trends to ensure long-term project viability.
5.6 Climate Reduction Regulatory Compliance
At SSTC, our Climate Reduction Regulatory Compliance services help businesses navigate the increasingly complex regulatory landscape around climate change and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions. With the implementation of laws like the UAE Federal Decree-Law and the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), businesses need to stay ahead of evolving regulations and align their operations with national and international climate policies. We provide expert guidance to ensure businesses comply with these regulations, mitigate risks, optimize sustainability efforts, and maintain competitive advantages.
Overview
5.6.1 UAE Federal Decree-Law on Climate Change
5.6.2 EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
Approach
5.6.1 For UAE Federal Decree-Law Compliance:
1. Regulatory Alignment
➺ Strategic Alignment: Ensure organizational strategies align with the UAE’s emission reduction targets, climate adaptation measures, and mitigation requirements.
➺ Tools Used: Leverage regulatory mapping tools, UAE Climate Action Tracker, and carbon accounting tools for compliance and monitoring.
2. GHG Quantification and Reporting
➺ GHG Quantification & Reporting: Establish systems to track emissions and ensure compliance with UAE regulations, covering Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
➺ Tools Used: Utilize GHG Protocol, ISO 14064-1, and local regulatory reporting frameworks for accurate monitoring and reporting.
3. Sustainable Practices Implementation
➺ Implement Emissions Reduction Strategies: Adopt energy efficiency measures, renewable energy solutions, and carbon offsetting strategies across operations.
➺ Tools Used: Energy efficiency assessment tools, carbon offset platforms, and renewable energy sourcing programs.
4. Transparency and Reporting
➺ Ensure Transparent & Regular Reporting: Maintain clear and consistent reporting on emissions and climate adaptation efforts to meet UAE regulatory requirements and climate goals.
➺ Tools Used: Carbon management platforms, automated reporting software, and SBTi reporting frameworks.
5.6.2 For EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
1. Carbon Emissions Assessment
➺ Assess Embedded Carbon Emissions: Assist businesses in calculating the embedded carbon emissions of imported products to evaluate CBAM cost exposure.
➺ Tools Used: Carbon footprint assessment software, LCA tools, and CBAM guidelines.
2. Carbon Reduction Strategy
➺ Develop Supply Chain Emission Reduction Strategies: Implement low-carbon technologies and enhance operational efficiency to minimize carbon emissions across the supply chain.
➺ Tools Used: LCA analysis, carbon reduction calculators, and supply chain optimization tools.
3. CBAM Reporting and Documentation
➺ Ensure CBAM Compliance & Reporting: Assist businesses in meeting CBAM reporting and documentation requirements with accurate and timely submissions.
➺ Tools Used: CBAM-specific reporting templates, regulatory databases, and compliance checklists.
Impact to Our Clients
For UAE Federal Decree-Law Compliance
➺ Full Compliance: Ensure adherence to the UAE’s climate change law and contribute to the nation’s climate targets.
➺ Minimized Environmental Impact: Implement sustainable practices to reduce emissions and lower the environmental footprint across operations.
➺ Incentives: Access government benefits for adopting green technologies, participating in carbon credit programs, and enhancing energy efficiency.
➺ Improved Operational Performance: Optimize energy use, resource efficiency, and cost savings while maintaining regulatory compliance.
For EU CBAM Compliance
➺ Compliance with EU Regulations: Ensure full adherence to EU CBAM regulations for products imported into the European market.
➺ Cost Reduction: Minimize exposure to carbon tariffs and reduce the financial impact of CBAM on the supply chain.
➺ Enhanced Competitiveness: Strengthen sustainability credentials and improve market position by aligning with carbon reduction requirements.
➺ Sustainable Sourcing: Implement low-carbon sourcing strategies to stay ahead of regulations while supporting climate goals.
5.7 Nationally Determined Contributions
NDC 3.0 Consulting Services for Governments
Overview
Approach
1. NDC 3.0 Submission Support
➺ Data Collection & Analysis: Assist countries in gathering and analyzing emissions data and mitigation actions.
➺ Transparency Framework Compliance: Ensure NDC submissions meet global reporting standards.
➺ Technical Expert Review Preparation: Help countries prepare for technical reviews to fulfill international expectations.
➺ Global Climate Framework Integration: Align NDC submissions with global climate goals for a cohesive strategy.
2. Technical Review of National Inventory Reports
➺ Reviewing emissions data across various sectors including energy, industrial processes, agriculture, and waste.
3. Tracking NDC Progress
➺ GHG Emission Projections: Support the development of future emissions scenarios.
➺ Mitigation Actions Tracking: Assist in tracking and reporting on mitigation measures.
➺ Progress Monitoring: Establish frameworks to monitor NDC progress effectively.
4. Financial, Technological, and Capacity-Building Support
➺ Financial Support Guidance: Assist in securing financing for NDC implementation.
➺ Technology Transfer: Support the adoption of climate technologies.
➺ Institutional Capacity Building: Strengthen institutions to effectively manage climate policies.
5. Adaptation Planning and Reporting
➺ Adaptation Strategy Development: Assist in creating effective climate adaptation strategies.
➺ Integration into NDCs: Ensure adaptation actions are incorporated into NDCs.
Impact to Our Clients
➺ Improved Climate Action: SSTC helps countries develop NDCs aligned with global climate goals.
➺ Transparency and Accountability: Ensures accurate tracking and reporting of climate progress.
➺ Long-Term Sustainability: Strengthens institutional capacity and secures financial support for NDCs.
➺ Climate Resilience: Supports governments in adapting to climate change and mitigating its impacts.
➺ Global Alignment: Helps countries align their efforts with global climate frameworks, contributing to a sustainable future.