Severn Trent has been named as partner to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, which will be carbon neutral for the first time.
The Games has made a sustainability pledge as one of its seven commitments covering the environment, carbon, accessibility, human rights and ethical procurement.
Under the partnership, 2,022 acres of forest will be created along with 72 urban forests in the West Midlands.
Severn Trent will be responsible for delivering initiatives that help offset the carbon generated by the games with the hope of leaving a positive social and environmental legacy in the region.
This includes creating the forests and mini urban forests that will represent each of the 72 nations and territories competing at the games.
Ian Reid, chief executive of the games 2022, said: “Our plan not only outlines how we will continue to support the regionwide economic recovery, but also demonstrates how we will leave a credible piece of social and environmental legacy.”
He said the partnership with Severn Trent sets a “compelling benchmark” for delivering all aspects of sustainability over the next 18 months until the games kicks off.
“Our commitment to become the first carbon-neutral games is a significant one, and this marks just the start of our journey to make these Commonwealth Games the most sustainable to date”.
The organiser said it has conducted an independent, credible analysis of the Games’ likely carbon footprint to determine the baseline to offset against. It aims to reduce carbon wherever possible and offset what remains through credible initiatives with support from Severn Trent.
To reduce waste, free drinking water refill points will be installed to encourage the use of refillable bottles over single use plastic.
Liv Garfield, chief executive of Severn Trent said: “We’re passionate about making a positive impact on the communities and the environment where we live and operate, and to the lives of everyone that we serve. And that’s why we just had to be involved. Through this exciting partnership we’ll build on our existing work and ambitions to deliver lasting social and environmental change by creating new green urban spaces, further enhancing biodiversity, promoting plastic-free thinking and ultimately delivering a carbon neutral legacy for generations to come.’’