Tackling Carbon in Construction: Oktra’s Investments into Climate Solutions

Decarbonisation as a path to rebalancing the planet

Through our Net Zero strategy, we actively track, analyse, and reduce our operational emissions annually. By addressing our Scope 1 and 2 emissions, along with key Scope 3 categories, we aim to cut emissions by 5% each year. This sustained effort has earned us Planet Mark Certification annually for over a decade, highlighting our long-term commitment to improvement.

However, addressing climate change and achieving net zero requires more than just reducing emissions. To contribute meaningfully to the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, we must go beyond decarbonisation alone. That’s where our carbon investments come in.

To accelerate our environmental impact, we’ve partnered with Patch, whose commitment to transparency and rigorous vetting ensures the highest standards of integrity and ethics in the carbon credits market. Patch connects us to a diverse portfolio of high-impact carbon credits from projects aligned with our values.

By combining emission reduction, carbon removal through innovative technologies, and restoration of natural systems, we’re creating a holistic approach to decarbonisation. Through four carefully selected projects, we’re tackling multiple aspects of decarbonisation—from advancing low-carbon construction materials to protecting ecosystems and empowering communities—making a meaningful and targeted impact.

Supporting people and the planet through carbon avoidance

Removing carbon is a vital step, but preventing emissions at the source is equally important—especially in regions where fossil fuels are essential for daily survival. To create a balanced approach, we’ve committed to supporting two carbon avoidance projects that make a direct, positive impact on communities and ecosystems.

The Rural Nepal Improved Cookstove Distribution project

Run by Practical Action,  this project provides fuel-efficient stoves to disadvantaged households in Nepal. Many families in rural Nepal rely on traditional cookstoves that burn firewood and cow dung, contributing to dangerous air pollution and deforestation. By replacing these with more efficient stoves, we’re not only helping to prevent carbon emissions but also improving the health and wellbeing of communities in the region. It’s a perfect example of how environmental sustainability and social impact go hand in hand.

Our long term vision and impact

This year, we’ve offset 118 tCO2e through these projects, achieving full carbon neutrality for 2023-24. By concentrating our efforts on these four initiatives, we’re making a focused, tangible contribution to reducing our environmental impact and advancing sustainable practices within the construction sector.

But this is only the beginning. We’re committed to continuously finding new ways to innovate and reduce our carbon footprint. Through our partnership with Patch and our ongoing dedication to sustainability, we’re excited to build a future where people and the planet can thrive together.