At AG Impact, climate action isn’t just about reducing our own footprint – it’s about learning, sharing and supporting others to do the same. Businesses of every size are under pressure to act on climate change, but it can be hard to know where to start, what’s credible, and how to avoid the risk of greenwashing.
That’s why we’ve built climate action into our core purpose and why we’re committed to being transparent about our own journey – celebrating progress, acknowledging challenges, and sharing practical steps along the way.
Progress we’re proud of
This year, we’ve made big strides in line with SDG 13: Climate Action:
- Zero Scope 1 & 2 emissions
We’re proud to have eliminated all Scope 1 and 2 emissions from our business, achieving our near-term Science Based Target six years ahead of schedule. For us, that means moving faster than we thought possible – and showing it can be done. - Carbon Literacy Training
100% of our employees and 92% of our AG Members (freelancers and suppliers) are now certified as Carbon Literate through The Carbon Literacy Project. That means nearly everyone we work with has a baseline knowledge of climate science and practical tools to take action. Beyond our own network, we’ve supported 21 more people outside AG to become Carbon Literate too. - Tree planting & verified carbon projects
Together with Ecologi, we’ve planted 25,000 trees and prevented 189t CO2e through 41 verified carbon avoidance projects – reaching our target a year early.
Embedding carbon reduction in our policies and decision-making, and engaging our team and suppliers throughout the process, has led to positive behaviour changes and significantly impacted our carbon emissions.
Melissa Penn
Environmental Lead, AG Impact
The challenges that remain
Like most businesses, our biggest challenge is Scope 3 emissions – the indirect impacts that come through our suppliers.
This year, we worked with our top 21 suppliers to measure and reduce their own footprints. That gave us a clearer picture of our impact, but it also raised our reported total. It’s proof of two things:
- Better data can make the numbers look worse before they look better. But it’s the only way to make real progress.
- Collaboration is key. We can’t reduce Scope 3 on our own – it requires suppliers, clients and partners to come on the journey too.
What’s next
We’re not stopping here. In the year ahead, our focus will be on:
- Becoming a Carbon Literate Organisation
- Supporting more businesses to embed climate action through training and consultancy
- Tackling Scope 3 by working hand-in-hand with suppliers
- Continuing to share our progress openly to help others learn with us
100% of our employees and 92% of our AG Members (freelancers and suppliers) are now certified as Carbon Literate
Melissa Penn
Environmental Lead, AG Impact
Why it matters
Climate action can feel overwhelming. The reality is that no business will have all the answers right away – but starting, learning and adapting is what counts.
Our message to other organisations is simple:
- Start with what you can control (like energy and policies).
- Invest in your people – Carbon Literacy is one of the most effective ways to build knowledge and confidence.
- Don’t shy away from the challenges – transparency builds trust and shows you’re serious.
At AG Impact, we’re committed to walking this journey alongside our clients, partners and community. Every step matters, and every step is stronger when taken together.
Author details
Laura McDowell
Impact Manager
