Connexin’s mission to become carbon neutral by 2040 has not distracted the Hull-based ISP from its growth plans, according to Chief of Staff Laura Porter, taking to IT Europa ahead of its upcoming High Growth 50: Sustainability report. Instead, she says, the company’s robust green agenda has strengthened its partnerships and facilitated contract wins, alongside driving positive environmental outcomes.
Hull-based broadband, smart solutions and digital training specialist Connexin has taken great steps in its sustainability journey, achieving B Corp certification and aligning with the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB). Porter, whose role is to align Connexin’s strategic goals and priorities, stated that these credentials have fuelled the company’s growth, with Connexin being named as the second fastest growing company at the 2024 Northern Tech Awards, up from 14th place in 2023, and securing several significant contracts including £58m from BDUK to deliver broadband to rural homes.
The link between growth and Connexin’s green agenda comes from the strengthening of relationships with partners and customers and by providing differentiation in a crowded market, according to Porter, who said: “People increasingly value working with organisations that align with their own priorities,” she said. “It has also been instrumental in securing client contracts that require demonstrable Social Value commitments, such as providing free IoT sensors to schools and community groups.”
Connexin is proof of the growing role of sustainability in the partnering imperative, analysing its supply chain to ensure it is working with companies that align with its ESG goals. Connexin prioritises those that demonstrate strong environmental and social governance practices. “Sustainability is a critical factor in our decision-making for partnerships and procurement,” added Porter. “That is why it is important to position ourselves as a trusted partner for like-minded organisations.”
Building on its existing green commitment, Connexin’s priorities for 2025 are to reduce its carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and engage with its local communities on sustainability initiatives. Porter identifies a key challenge as accurately measuring Scope Three emissions. Connexin is exploring a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Hull University to address this. Porter adds: “Additionally, while construction activities during our growth period have temporarily increased emissions, these are being managed and we continue to be committed to becoming net zero by 2040.”
Sustainability is a company-wide imperative for Connexin, with leadership baking these commitments into the organisation’s identity, believing that businesses have a “profound moral obligation to further the green agenda,” says Porter. But Connexin also views seeking sustainability best practice as an opportunity to increase its innovative core and bolster staff buy-in. “Our commitment has fostered a culture of responsibility and innovation throughout the business,” she added. This has been done through ESG training for all staff, and embedding sustainability into policies, procurement, and employee engagement. “Building a sustainability ethos into the design of the products and services we offer is also key element in delivering the strategic aims of the business.”
Framework for success
Porter states that the frameworks Connexin follows have helped codify its efforts and present them to the wider channel community. For example, to become a certified B Corp Connexin had to provide detailed evidence of its ESG practices, from governance and environmental impact to social contributions. “Whilst time intensive, this was a crucial step in affirming our values and showcasing our commitment to being a responsible and impactful business, said Porter. “We wear it as a badge of honour that reflects our accountability, transparency, and commitment to balancing profit with purpose. It underscores our dedication to positively impacting the environment, our employees, and the wider community.”
The process of meeting framework standards has also provided a competitive advantage through lessons learnt that apply to other business areas. “Our sustainability journey has taught us the importance of clear governance, benchmarking and collaboration with external partners,” added Porter. “Working with frameworks like GRESB has provided invaluable insights, while community engagement has reinforced the importance of shared goals. Investing in innovative solutions, such as solar-powered IoT gateways and Scope 3 emissions measurement systems, has highlighted the potential for technology to drive meaningful progress.”
Embracing innovation
Porter believes that the wider ICT industry should harness its collaboration and innovation skillsets to do more for the environment. “While progress is evident, the industry must accelerate its efforts to drive the sustainability agenda,” she added. “The journey and challenge is vast. Knowing where to begin is extremely daunting for all organisations, even the smallest SME. Getting started is often the most difficult step.” She recommends organisations start by aligning with recognised sustainability frameworks to measure and benchmark progress. “Treat the process like any other project, and don't be afraid of the things that seem too hard,” she said.
She suggests organisations embrace innovative solutions such as renewable energy technologies or emissions monitoring systems, engage with local communities on collaborative projects, and set tangible goals for reducing environmental and climatic impacts. Porter also discussed the benefits of a collaborative channel ecosystem. “Engage in strategic partnerships with other businesses or organisations like universities to access cutting-edge thinking and facilitate knowledge transfer,” she said. “These collaborations can provide expert insights and drive innovation in sustainability practices.”
