<p><span>Gleeson has advanced its sustainability credentials, committing to setting science-based carbon emission reduction targets and launching a biodiversity strategy.</span></p> <p><span>Under the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the low-cost housebuilder and land promoter will set targets within two years that the SBTi will validate.</span></p> <p><span>Gleeson said it had reviewed its Scope 1 (direct greenhouse gas emissions), Scope 2 (indirect emissions) and Scope 3 (value chain) emissions and was currently finalising workstreams to reduce carbon under the SBTi and agreeing its key reporting milestones.</span></p> <p><span>“This demonstrates the group’s ongoing commitment to direct climate action, through decarbonisation across its operations, supply chain and in-use emissions alike,” the group stated.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>Gleeson’s biodiversity strategy will see it going beyond the regulatory requirement of biodiversity net gain, to preserve ecology where it builds as well as help it thrive, it said.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>Its intended initiatives include planting “beneficial” wildlife, focusing on invertebrates and pollinators, and providing food and protection for local animals. Gleeson said its welcome packs for new buyers included a bug hotel, wildflower seeds and an electronic guide to encouraging wildlife into their garden.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>Matt Gibb, Gleeson’s group sustainability manager, said: </span><i>“</i><span>We are very excited about today’s announcement. Gleeson has been working hard on understanding …