From data gaps to climate impact: How Principality Building Society is progressing on net zero

In 2021, Principality Building Society faced a challenge common to many organisations: bold climate ambitions without a clear starting point.

The Cardiff-based building society, owned by 500,000 members, had committed to reaching net zero emissions in scopes 1 and 2 by 2030, halving scope 3 by the same year, and achieving net zero across all scopes by 2040. But at the time, it hadn’t yet calculated its carbon footprint. The data wasn’t there.

Fast forward to 2024, and Principality is actively tracking emissions, engaging suppliers, reducing operational impact, and investing in high-quality carbon removal projects in the UK. A four-year partnership with ClimatePartner has been instrumental in turning ambition into action.

Laying the groundwork

The first step was establishing a baseline. ClimatePartner supported Principality in calculating a full scope 1, 2, and 3 carbon footprint, identifying emissions hotspots, and building a solid data foundation for year-on-year improvement.
One early insight: paper consumption and logistics were significant sources of emissions.
Principality used this information to shape its digital-first strategy, significantly cutting paper use, delivering both carbon reductions and cost savings.

Engaging suppliers, strengthening decisions

Beyond internal operations, supply chain emissions presented another major challenge. ClimatePartner provided a supplier engagement toolkit and hands-on training, helping them collect better data and build stronger partnerships. This work also strengthened ESG reporting, a critical piece of Principality’s long-term strategy.
A tailored net zero modelling tool now supports strategic planning by visualising emission reduction scenarios and tracking progress toward long-term goals.

From carbon avoidance to carbon removals

In 2022 and 2023, Principality took an additional step by contributing to global climate projects equivalent to its corporate carbon footprint. With ClimatePartner, it supported a REDD+ project in Colombia that prevents deforestation and supports sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

Since 2024, it has taken the next step: investing in carbon removals. With ClimatePartner’s support, Principality procured two high-impact UK-based projects:

• 339 tonnes CO₂e in 2024 in enhanced rock weathering, a natural method of carbon removal that also enriches soil health.
• 414 tonnes CO₂e in 2025 in carbon mineralisation, turning industrial waste into low-carbon construction material.

Delivering on strategy, with evidence

Four years in, Principality has moved from data gaps to measurable progress. With a robust carbon footprint, active supplier engagement, targeted reduction measures, and credible climate contributions, it is advancing its “Secure Futures” pillar and delivering on its environmental commitments to members.
This journey isn’t over. But it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when ambition meets structure, partnership, and data-driven climate action.

"ClimatePartner is extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help and offer advice and support. They are now helping us to create a sustainable supply chain, providing bespoke training for our colleagues and a toolkit to share with our suppliers."

Aimee Smith, Sustainability Manager, Principality