Global professional services firm Accenture announced a series of new sustainability commitments, including setting 2025 targets to reach net zero emissions, zero waste, and addressing water risk. The company also announced that it has appointed Peter Lacy to the newly created role of Chief Responsibility Officer and Global Sustainability Services Lead, as well as to Accenture’s Global Management Committee.

Julie Sweet, Chief Executive Officer, Accenture, said:

“This is the moment for business, government and society to come together to reimagine, rebuild and transform our global economy into one that works for the benefit of all. Today’s rapid acceleration to digital presents us with a breakthrough opportunity to create a more sustainable future. By scaling these ambitions, we can help make real change and deliver 360-degree value for all.”

In order to achieve net zero emissions by 2025, Accenture stated that it will power its offices with 100% renewable energy, engage suppliers to reduce their own emissions, and make efforts to make ‘climate smart’ travel decisions. Remaining emissions will be addressed through proprietary, nature-based carbon removal solutions, that will directly remove emissions from the atmosphere.

The firm’s zero waste initiatives will include reusing or recycling of 100% of e-waste, such as computers and servers, as well as eliminating single-use plastics in all locations at the conclusion of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Accenture also stated that it will develop plans for its facilities to reduce the impact of flooding, drought and water scarcity in high-risk areas by 2025, and measure and reduce water use in these locations.

Peter Lacey, Accenture’s newly appointed Chief Responsibility Officer and Global Sustainability Services Lead, joined the firm in 2008. He currently serves as senior managing director for Europe as well as for UK and Ireland within Accenture Strategy, and leads Sustainability globally. In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing the integration of sustainability and responsibility for all stakeholders into Accenture’s client services as well as Accenture’s own operations. According to Accenture, Lacey will work closely with clients and ecosystem partners to help transition industries to low-carbon energy; reduce the carbon footprint of IT, cloud and software; design and deliver net-zero, circular supply chains; embed sustainable practices; and reskill workforces.

Sweet said:

“I am excited that Peter will step into this critical new role, as we help create sustainable growth for our clients and continue to lead the way toward a future of shared success. Peter is a trusted advisor with an unparalleled ability to understand sustainability as a lens for growth, and I know his visionary leadership will drive groundbreaking results for our clients and for our company.”