THRIVE – Our ESG Commitment

At Countrywide Grounds Maintenance, we recognise the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in shaping a better tomorrow. Through our ESG strategy, THRIVE, we embrace the present to shape a sustainable future. Our commitment is built on five key pillars: Time, Home, Responsible, Innovation, and Environment, each of which reflects our dedication to a positive impact for our clients, communities, and the planet.

For grounds maintenance companies, integrating ESG principles is not just about corporate responsibility—it’s about building a sustainable, ethical, and efficient business that meets the evolving demands of clients, employees, and stakeholders.

Environmental responsibility

Grounds maintenance companies have a direct impact on the environment, making sustainability a key consideration. Here’s how ESG principles support environmental stewardship:

Sustainable landscaping practices: Using eco-friendly landscaping methods, such as xeriscaping, native plant selection, and organic fertilisers, reduces water consumption and minimises chemical use.
Waste reduction: Proper disposal and recycling of green waste help minimize landfill contributions and promote circular economy principles. In 2024, we recycled over 27,000, tonnes of green waste.
Energy efficiency: Utilising electric or battery-powered landscaping equipment, rather than gas-powered machinery, reduces carbon emissions and noise pollution. We utilise over 240 pieces of electrical equipment across the UK.
Biodiversity conservation: Encouraging pollinator-friendly environments, maintaining natural habitats, and minimizing pesticide use support local ecosystems. Our teams delivered more than 80 biodiversity schemes in 2024.

Social impact

A strong ESG approach prioritizes people—employees, clients, and the wider community. Grounds maintenance companies can enhance their social impact by:

Employee well-being & safety: Investing in proper training, providing fair wages, and ensuring safe working conditions create a healthier, more productive workforce. In 2024, our employees carried out a total of over 5,400 hours in training.
Community engagement: Supporting local projects, maintaining public spaces, and partnering with community organizations enhance social value and goodwill. At Countrywide, our teams volunteered at more than 50 events (equating to 500+ hours) and donated £15,000+ to local causes.
Diversity & inclusion: Fostering a diverse workforce promotes innovation, equity, and a stronger company culture.

Governance & ethical business practices

Strong governance is essential for long-term success. ESG-aligned governance in grounds maintenance involves:

Regulatory compliance: Adhering to environmental and labour laws ensures ethical business practices and minimises legal risks.
Transparent operations: Clear communication with clients, stakeholders, and employees builds trust and accountability.
Sustainable procurement: Partnering with suppliers who share ESG values promotes responsible sourcing and reduces environmental impact.

The business case for ESG in grounds maintenance

Embracing ESG principles is not only ethically sound but also makes business sense. Companies that prioritize ESG can:

Enhance brand reputation: Clients increasingly prefer service providers with strong sustainability and ethical commitments.
Improve efficiency & reduce costs: Sustainable practices often lead to long-term cost savings, such as reduced energy and water usage.
Attract & retain talent: Employees are more likely to work for companies that prioritise their well-being and values.
Stay competitive: ESG-driven businesses are better positioned to adapt to regulations and changing market expectations.

At Countrywide, we’re committed to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles through our THRIVE strategy, ensuring a sustainable and responsible future.