#SustyTalk: Alpkit CEO David Hanney on B-Corp certification

With edie readers working remotely or on furlough, this brand new series of video interviews keeps you connected to the inspirational business leaders who are continuing to drive sustainability and champion climate action from their own homes.

#SustyTalk is all about keeping edie’s loyal readers connected to sustainable business leaders across the world, whilst reminding us all that sustainability and climate action must go on through the current Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. 

The latest episode sees edie’s senior reporter Sarah George speaking with Alpkit’s co-founder and chief executive David Hanney.

Hanney explores how executives can play a role in embedding sustainability – both environmental and social – into the DNA of their businesses, and why it can be valuable to do this before a brand grows.

Hanney also provides behind-the-scenes insight as to how Alpkit gained B-Corp accreditation, with a score of 95, as well as its plans for re-certification and improving its score over time. There is also a discussion around what more can be done to support more businesses to certify as B-Corps, including training, communications and support from retailer stockists, as seen with the recent launch of dedicated B-Corp aisles at Ocado. 

Shortly after this video was recorded, Alpkit received accreditation from the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTI) for its updated emissions goals. The new targets are aligned with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5C trajectory and require Alpkit to reduce absolute emissions by 45% by 2023, against a 2019 baseline. Plans for decarbonisation include electrifying Alpkit’s transport fleet, improving product recyclability and choosing materials with a lower environmental impact. 

Click here to see our catalogue of #SustyTalk video interviews.

Want to be featured on a future episode of #SustyTalk? Email newsdesk@fav-house.com. Please bear in mind that our interview calendar is typically booked several weeks in advance. 

edie Staff