Driving Meaningful Change: The Allect ESG Lab

In 2024, we established the Allect ESG Lab, an employee-led collective dedicated to advancing sustainability within our business. Comprising 17 committed volunteers—representing 30% of our workforce—this multidisciplinary group includes professionals from interior design, architecture, private clients, creative, and construction divisions. Their combined expertise fosters collaboration, accountability, and innovation, strengthening our approach to sustainability.

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From Discussion to Implementation

The ESG Lab meets monthly to explore new initiatives, which are then presented at quarterly ESG meetings with the C-suite for consideration and funding. Discussions cover a broad range of topics, from waste management and community engagement to workplace culture and event planning. These conversations have led to tangible changes, including the introduction of enhanced six-month maternity leave, HR policy updates, and greater participation in community projects.

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Collaboration Beyond Our Business

Recognizing the value of shared learning, the ESG Lab actively engages with industry peers, suppliers, and professionals through lunch-and-learn sessions, supplier presentations, and guest speakers. Since summer 2024, we have welcomed contributions from Sedilia, Tai Ping, Sirimiri, Altfield, Domus Tiles, Fitzroy of London and Jennifer Manners, facilitating insightful discussions on sustainability and responsible sourcing.

To support informed decision-making, the ESG Lab is also developing a comprehensive reference document—our “Green Book”—which will assist with supplier specifications, sourcing strategies, and procurement guidelines.

The ESG Lab takes a proactive approach in refining our materials library, ensuring it aligns with our sustainability objectives. This involves not only re-categorizing materials based on environmental impact but also expanding our materials database to include comprehensive data on sourcing, certifications, lifecycle assessments, and recyclability. By maintaining an up-to-date and transparent record, we will empower our teams to make more informed, responsible choices throughout the design and construction process.

Beyond cataloguing materials, members of the ESG Lab plays a crucial role in strategic decision-making at every stage of a project—from initial concept development through to final execution. Sustainability is embedded across disciplines, including design, architecture, construction, furnishings, and long-term maintenance. Our teams carefully consider factors such as energy efficiency, durability, and the carbon footprint of materials, ensuring that selections align with both aesthetic and environmental priorities.

Client collaboration is also a key focus. Through thoughtful engagement and clear communication, we guide clients toward sustainable choices, providing insights on material alternatives, energy-saving solutions, and responsible procurement strategies. This holistic approach ensures that sustainability is not just a goal but a fundamental principle shaping every aspect of our projects.

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Prioritizing Thoughtful Choices

Sustainability is also embedded in our daily operations, the ESG Lab is continually looking to overhaul our existing practises and make improvements. We’ve changed how we shop for the office, prioritizing sustainable and local choices. By shopping with Ocado’s “green” delivery slots, we minimize emissions by scheduling deliveries already in our area. We’ve replaced products with palm oil-free options, stocked up on fresh fruit, sourced local produce like Kent apples, and ensured items like hot chocolate and bananas meet Rainforest Alliance standards. Packaging is another focus—we look for minimal or recyclable materials and return shopping bags to reduce waste. The ESG team is hands-on in these efforts, suggesting ideas like zero-plastic sellotape and plant-based handwash. It’s all about taking small, thoughtful steps that add up to big change.

At Allect, we prioritise progress over perfection, and believe sustainability is not just a responsibility but an ongoing commitment—one that is strengthened through collaboration, innovation, and a shared dedication to positive change.

Read more about our ESG Lab here.