The James Hutton Institute, an internationally renowned research centre that aims to provide scientific solutions to the challenges faced by the agricultural industry due to the climate and nature crises, has been shortlisted in two categories at the prestigious UK Business Green Awards, which celebrate the very best of the UK’s pioneering green economy.
It is a finalist for Net Zero Strategy of the Year, and its Sustainability Co-ordinator, Stefan Jindra, has been recognised in the Sustainability Leader of the Year category.
The Hutton began reporting its emissions in 2014 and published its first emissions reduction plan in 2019. This evolved into a Climate Action Plan with a clear target of achieving net zero emissions. In recognition of this work, the Hutton won the King’s Awards for Enterprise in Sustainable Development in 2023.
Speaking of the awards Stefan Jindra said, “We are delighted that The James Hutton Institute’s Climate Action Plan has been shortlisted for Net Zero Strategy of the Year, and that our work has also been recognised through my shortlisting for Sustainability Leader of the Year at the UK Green Business Awards.
“Over the past years, we have continued to deliver practical carbon reduction initiatives across the organisation, including the installation of the Bullionfield Solar Meadow, which now supplies around 25% of our Invergowrie campus’ electricity demand; rollout of air source heat pumps within new buildings, LED lighting upgrades and wider energy awareness and efficiency campaigns across our campuses.
“Importantly, this work is being integrated into broader organisational planning and decision-making through strengthened emissions reporting, governance, infrastructure planning and sustainable procurement activities, helping embed long-term sustainability across the Hutton’s operations.”
Since establishing its baseline, the Hutton has cut its total emissions by 35%. Emissions for the 2024/25 year are already below the reduction target set for 2025/26, underlining the effectiveness of its net zero strategy.
Colin Smith, Campus Operations Director at the Hutton, said, “This shortlisting recognises the collective effort across the Hutton to reduce our environmental impact. With emissions already cut by 35%, we remain committed to ensuring our operations match the ambition of our science. The leadership of our Sustainability Co‑ordinator, Stefan Jindra, and the Sustainability Group has been pivotal in driving our Climate Action Plan.”
The winners of the UK Business Green Awards will be announced at an awards ceremony on 24th June.