whg sustainability and ESG lead shortlisted for Power List

A leading Midlands housing provider’s sustainability lead has been shortlisted for this year’s Unlock Net Zero Climate Champions’ Power List.

Jo Shields, Head of Sustainability & ESG for whg, which owns and manages 22,000 affordable homes across the Midlands, has secured a place on the shortlist for her approach and achievements in driving forward sustainable practices in UK housing.

As a self-confessed career environmentalist, Jo is thrilled to have been recognised in this way. She said: “Since joining whg we really have achieved a lot, and it has been incredibly satisfying to work with a team who are so keen to continue with, and do more of, the good work we have already seen across the sector.

“We’re making a real difference to the environment and to customers’ lives, and to be nominated and reach the shortlist for the Champions’ Power List obviously means a lot. I’m grateful to everyone who has come on this sustainability journey with me so far, and excited to see what else we can achieve.”

In the 18 months since joining whg, Jo has introduced a bespoke Carbon Literacy Training Programme, inspiring colleagues to cut carbon in line with whg’s new Sustainability Strategy. The programme contributed to the housing provider cutting carbon emissions by 4,000 tonnes, waste by 26%, electricity usage by 15% and gas by 2% and was awarded the bronze accreditation by the Carbon Literacy Project.

Jo also launched whg’s first Sustainability Annual Report as well as leading the organisation to achieve the highest rating possible in the RITTERWALD accreditation, resulting in whg being highlighted as a ‘frontrunner’ and ‘ambassador’ in social housing sustainability.

Gary Fulford, Chief Executive, said: “Jo has already made hugely significant progress in reducing whg’s impact on the environment, succeeding in engaging and inspiring people from all areas of the business. We are thrilled for her in being shortlisted for this well-deserved sustainability accolade.”
Jo has been shortlisted alongside Dr Emma Fieldhouse from Future We Want. Emma has worked closely with Jo in developing and implementing the Carbon Literacy programme of change at whg both through the employee training and various workshops and conferences.

The winners of the 2023 Power List, which aims to recognise and celebrate positive contributions to climate action across the UK housing and built environment sectors, will be unveiled at a free-to-attend ceremony on 23 November.