South-West and Wales sustainability and engineering consultancy, Services Design Solution Ltd (SDS), has been recognised for its commitment to its staff, local communities and the environment. They have been bestowed a Queen's Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development.
David Fursdon, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, presented the award to Shaun Hoppins, Managing Director of SDS, at a reception held at their head office on Friday, 20 January.
SDS has placed environmental sustainability, employee care, and support for local communities at the heart of its business operations.
Since it was established in 2004, SDS has won several awards. However, this award has particular importance for the company. The Queen's Award for this category recognises sustainable practices, including social sustainability.
Shaun said: "To receive this accolade for exemplary practices in sustainability within our sector is an outstanding achievement and is of significant importance to us. It recognises our efforts to achieve sustainable outcomes for our business and local communities. It demonstrates our commitment to our staff and protecting our planet. I was delighted to accept the award from the Lord Lieutenant today along with our team, without whom we would not be able to make the positive impact that we do.
When we commenced trading in 2004, we wanted to differentiate ourselves from our peers in engineering sustainability. As we grew as a business, we gained a broader understanding of what is truly sustainable and captured this within the company values. We have used company profit to drive innovation, grow our business, develop staff and create job opportunities. Our team is empowered to help local communities through time and financial support."
SDS are construction consultants, specialising in building environmental engineering systems to provide safe, comfortable conditions for people to work and live.
What stood out to the Queen's Award for Enterprise panel was how SDS embedded social value targets within its business strategy. In addition to each employee being able to contribute pro-bono time and volunteer for social value projects, the company donates at least 1% of its annual turnover to provide financial support to local communities. Last year, this was over £56,000, equating to approximately £900 per employee. SDS has also given sustainability and zero-carbon emissions advice to numerous local authorities, offers careers talks at local schools and universities, and has designed work experience programmes for young people.
David Fursdon, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, said: "The Queen's Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious accolades for UK businesses, recognising and rewarding outstanding achievement. I'm pleased to have joined SDS at their offices to present them with their Queen's Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. This marks their commitment to giving back to their local community and protecting our environment."
SDS is committed to protecting the environment and is proud to have been net carbon-neutral since 2019. The company plans to continue its positive impact on the local community and environment. This will be achieved through growth and development of its sustainable portfolio, providing support to clients and partners decarbonising their estates and helping them to achieve their zero carbon aspirations.