MJ Gleeson plc, the leading affordable housebuilder and strategic land promoter, has announced two milestones in its sustainability strategy: the validation of its near-term and long-term net-zero targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (‘SBTi’), and its participation in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (‘SDG’) Flag campaign.
The SBTi is a corporate climate action organisation that enables companies and financial institutions worldwide to play their part in combating the climate crisis. It allows companies to set Greenhouse Gas (‘GHG’) emissions reduction targets in line with what is needed to keep global heating below catastrophic levels and reach net-zero by 2050 at the latest.
The validation of the targets demonstrates Gleeson’s ongoing commitment to direct climate action through decarbonisation across its value chain.
To ensure maximum transparency, accountability and corporate leadership, Gleeson will publicly report its progress against these targets on an annual basis along with a company-wide GHG emissions inventory.
In the past year alone, MJ Gleeson has reduced its scope 3 emissions* by 11.7% and is well on track to meet the medium-term target.
*Intensity measure based on m2 floor area of homes sold during the year ended 30 June 2025
Further to this, from 25 September 2025, Gleeson has joined hundreds of organisations worldwide in flying SDG flags at its developments, raising awareness of the UN’s Global Goals and mobilising communities behind the 2030 agenda. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Sustainable Development Goals (‘SDGs’) and the twenty-fifth anniversary of the United Nations Global Compact.
Gleeson’s sustainability strategy is built around six SDGs:
Gleeson will be flying Sustainable Development Goals (‘SDG’) flags at a select number of its developments across its regions to spread awareness of the core aims of the SDGs and mobilise stakeholders for the 2030 agenda. This symbolic act is part of a growing movement that demonstrates commitment to a more sustainable, inclusive and equitable future.
The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, reflect a shared objective and ambition across all countries to end poverty and hunger everywhere, to combat inequalities within and among countries, build peaceful and inclusive societies, protect human rights, and promote gender equality for women and girls, and ensure lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources by 2030.
Stefan Allanson, Chief Financial Officer of MJ Gleeson plc, said:
“We are delighted that the SBTi has validated our near and long-term emissions reduction targets, marking an important milestone and strengthening our commitment to operating responsibly. We recognise the role the built environment plays in carbon emissions, and this validation underscores our determination to minimise our environmental impact while continuing to deliver high-quality, affordable homes.”
Matt Gibb, Group Sustainability Manager, added:
“The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are central to our sustainability strategy. We are proud of our commitment to the SDGs. And we hope that our work locally contributes to these global imperatives. Our commitments to climate action, social equity, and sustainable communities go hand-in-hand with our mission of building affordable homes for those who need them most.”