Hiscox’s direct environmental impact comes mainly from our use of energy and the emissions and waste we generate at our premises. However we have a much broader impact on the environment through the way we underwrite our customers’ risks. High on our agenda is their attitude to the environment.
Environmental policy
Our environmental policy governs the way we manage resources at all our premises. Consumables such as paper, batteries, mobile phones and CDs are recycled and reused wherever possible; and we have programmes in place to reduce the amount of raw materials used in business processes and by employees, particularly through the extensive use of IT.
Carbon footprint
In 2009 Hiscox UK audited its impact on the environment, and, with the help of sustainability consultancy Corporate Citizenship, calculated the carbon footprint of the UK business. Hiscox UK aims to be Carbon Neutral by the end of 2010 by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, engaging employees to modify their behaviours and seeking to offset unavoidable carbon emissions.
Clean City Award
Our efforts in our London headquarters were rewarded by a Clean City Award from the City of London Corporation, which aims to promote good waste management practices and encourage waste minimisation, reuse and recycling. During 2009 we achieved a 69% reduction in waste sent to landfill.
Climatewise
Hiscox is a member of Climatewise, an insurance industry initiative which aims to reduce the long-term risks of climate change to the economy and society. We support its principles and have been encouraged by Lloyd’s of London’s actions to help the market meet many of Climatewise’s principles.