Sustainability Policy

1. Policy Statement

MRL® Public Sector Consultants Ltd (“MRL”) is committed to promoting sustainability in all areas of our operations. As a consultancy supporting public sector organisations, we recognise our responsibility to contribute to a more sustainable future by integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into our work.

We aim to lead by example in supporting the UK Government’s commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UK Net Zero Strategy, and responsible business practices.

2. Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this policy is to:

Guide decision-making across all functions of MRL.
Embed sustainability principles in service delivery, procurement, and operations.
Ensure accountability and continual improvement in sustainable performance.

This policy applies to all employees, directors, contractors, and consultants working on behalf of MRL.

3. Sustainability Commitments

MRL is committed to the following pillars of sustainability:

3.1 Environmental Sustainability

Minimise our environmental impact by reducing energy use, waste, and carbon emissions.
Encourage the use of digital tools to reduce paper usage and unnecessary travel.
Promote responsible procurement from environmentally and ethically certified suppliers.

3.2 Social Sustainability

Operate in an inclusive, ethical, and transparent manner.
Support diversity, equity, and wellbeing in our workplace and project delivery.
Engage with stakeholders respectfully and ensure our services benefit communities, especially vulnerable and underrepresented groups.

3.3 Economic Sustainability

Ensure long-term business viability through efficient and ethical practices.
Support local economies by collaborating with SMEs and social enterprises.
Deliver value-for-money services aligned with public sector priorities.

4. Implementation and Action Areas

MRL will:

Integrate sustainability considerations into business strategy and project planning.
Provide training and resources to staff to improve sustainability awareness.
Set measurable goals and track progress annually.
Choose suppliers and partners who share our sustainability values.

Examples of Sustainable Practices:

Virtual-first approach to meetings and client engagements.
Flexible work arrangements to reduce commuting-related emissions.
Selecting venues and vendors with environmental certifications for events.
Including sustainability impact reviews in major project proposals.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Directors and Senior Leadership are accountable for endorsing and reviewing sustainability goals and ensuring compliance.
All Staff are responsible for applying sustainable practices in daily tasks and raising suggestions for improvement.
A Sustainability Lead (if appointed) will coordinate initiatives, monitor impact, and report on outcomes.

6. Monitoring and Review

Sustainability performance will be reviewed annually.
Key metrics may include: CO₂ emissions, travel reductions, paper usage, supplier diversity, and training completion.
This policy will be reviewed and updated at least once every 12 months.