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Cala Sustain Shortlisted for MCA Awards

Cala Sustain Shortlisted for MCA Awards

Cala Sustain is delighted to have been shortlisted for an MCA Award for our work Driving Carbon Reduction in UK Defence Equipment.

The MCA Awards, hosted by the Management Consultancies Association (MCA), celebrate excellence in management consulting across the UK. The awards recognise the transformative impact of consulting firms and individuals who drive innovation, business growth, and positive societal change.

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In Partnership with Aurora

As a proud member of the Aurora Engineering Partnership’s Provider Network, Cala Sustain is playing a key role in supporting Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) in its mission to understand and reduce the carbon footprint of defence equipment and support solutions. Collaborating with QinetiQ, AtkinsRealis and BMT, Cala Sustain is providing overall technical and team leadership, multi-disciplinary expertise and deep knowledge of sustainability and defence to ensure that UK Defence is prepared for an energy-transitioned world.

Lieutenant General Richard Nugee’s landmark 2021 Climate Change and Sustainability Strategic Approach Review made it clear: climate change is “firmly a Defence Problem.” At Cala Sustain, we recognise that lowering emissions is about both environmental responsibility and enhancing operational effectiveness. Greener equipment means improved performance, reduced reliance on fossil fuels and greater resilience in challenging conditions.

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Groundbreaking initiative to decarbonise UK defence equipment

Our partnership is actively supporting the DE&S Environmental Authority in the development of the groundbreaking Whole-Life Equipment Emissions Management Framework. This innovative tool empowers project teams to forecast emissions at every stage of a project’s lifecycle – one of the first frameworks of its kind globally.

Working alongside the MoD Environmental Authority and sustainability leads from the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, Cala Sustain is ensuring that emissions forecasting is both accurate and actionable.

 

At early lifecycle stages, estimates are informed by weight, material composition, and conversion factors. As projects advance through design, development, and manufacturing, real-world data from the supply chain refines these forecasts – culminating in validated in-service energy efficiency predictions. At the end-of-life stage, we advocate for circular economy principles such as re-use, re-purpose, and recycle.

Ultimately, understanding the full carbon footprint of defence equipment is only the beginning. The true impact lies in leveraging this knowledge to influence procurement decisions and through-life support strategies. Cala Sustain is committed to integrating carbon considerations into acquisition policies, ensuring sustainability becomes a core pillar of defence planning.

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Why Choose Cala Sustain?

  • Passionate about sustainability
  • Expertise and professionalism
  • Proven track record
  • Bespoke quality service
  • Focused on delivering long term value

Why Choose Cala Sustain?

  • Passionate about sustainability
  • Expertise and professionalism
  • Proven track record
  • Bespoke quality service
  • Focused on delivering long term value

Second to None

We have collaborated successfully with the Cala Sustain team on a number of occasions. We have always found them to be knowledgeable, reliable, enthusiastic and very experienced. 

In Defence, their understanding of environmental and sustainability policy and standards is second to none. 

Marc Brule-Walker
Integrated Logistic Support Manager
Red Scientific

Always Add Value

The Cala Sustain team has been our trusted support service for all things “responsible business”. They are able to quickly understand and meet our challenges, understand our business and they always add unexpected value. 

The Cala Sustain team is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them highly enough. 

Jerry Beeston
Facilities Manager
Nisbets Plc

We couldn’t have done it without you

I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave us with the renewal of our Royal Warrant.

We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out that we had been successful, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Kate Gough
General Manager
Mitre Linen

Great people to do business with

Mark’s knowledge and understanding of corporate sustainability issues is extensive. His ability to provide practical solutions to difficult problems through the application of analytical and lateral thinking makes him a great person to do business with. 

Phil Harding
MBE

In depth Knowledge

Mark has substantial knowledge and experience of environmental and sustainability management issues, an in-depth knowledge of the Ministry of Defence’s processes and procedures, and a sound knowledge of the wider defence industry. 

Tommy Mason
QINETIQ

Great Partner to work with

Cala Sustain have been a great partner to work with on Sustainable Procurement projects, including for the NHS, Defra and under a variety of Frameworks. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, experience, tenacity and a clear understanding and practical application of the client’s needs.”

Philip Duddell
Sustainable Procurement Limited

Would recommend them

We’ve worked with the team at Cala Sustain over the last few years. We’ve valued their expertise, plus their highly professional and ethical approach and would recommend them to any organisation seeking to develop a company-wide sustainability strategy.

Matt Roper
GREENBUYING

Second to None

We have collaborated successfully with the Cala Sustain team on a number of occasions. We have always found them to be knowledgeable, reliable, enthusiastic and very experienced. 

In Defence, their understanding of environmental and sustainability policy and standards is second to none. 

Marc Brule-Walker
Integrated Logistic Support Manager
Red Scientific

Always Add Value

The Cala Sustain team has been our trusted support service for all things “responsible business”. They are able to quickly understand and meet our challenges, understand our business and they always add unexpected value. 

The Cala Sustain team is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them highly enough. 

Jerry Beeston
Facilities Manager
Nisbets Plc

We couldn’t have done it without you

I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave us with the renewal of our Royal Warrant.

We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out that we had been successful, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Kate Gough
General Manager
Mitre Linen

Great people to do business with

Mark’s knowledge and understanding of corporate sustainability issues is extensive. His ability to provide practical solutions to difficult problems through the application of analytical and lateral thinking makes him a great person to do business with. 

Phil Harding
MBE

In depth Knowledge

Mark has substantial knowledge and experience of environmental and sustainability management issues, an in-depth knowledge of the Ministry of Defence’s processes and procedures, and a sound knowledge of the wider defence industry. 

Tommy Mason
QINETIQ

Great Partner to work with

Cala Sustain have been a great partner to work with on Sustainable Procurement projects, including for the NHS, Defra and under a variety of Frameworks. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, experience, tenacity and a clear understanding and practical application of the client’s needs.”

Philip Duddell
Sustainable Procurement Limited

Would recommend them

We’ve worked with the team at Cala Sustain over the last few years. We’ve valued their expertise, plus their highly professional and ethical approach and would recommend them to any organisation seeking to develop a company-wide sustainability strategy.

Matt Roper
GREENBUYING

Find out how we can help

If you think we could be a good fit for your organisation or project get in touch.
Get in touch
Decarbonisation, Carbon Reduction Plan Icon, Cala Sustain Green Consultancy

Driving Carbon Reduction
in UK Defence Equipment

MOD Logo Cala Sustain ClientCala Sustain is at the forefront of a groundbreaking initiative to decarbonise UK defence equipment. We are helping the Ministry of Defence (MoD) achieve its Net Zero commitments. 

Over the past two years, our team of seven consultants has successfully led a broader multi-disciplinary, multi-organisational effort to tackle one of the UK’s most pressing sustainability challenges. As we look ahead, this programme is set to expand significantly over the next five years and beyond.

Defence equipment, encompassing everything from ships and aircraft to food and clothing, conservatively accounts for 35% of government emissions. Addressing emissions on this scale requires a holistic, integrated approach that aligns with the defence acquisition process and considers the full lifecycle of equipment—spanning design, production, operation, and disposal.

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Our Approach to Decarbonisation

Rather than pursuing standalone solutions (which often fail in large, complex organisations like the MoD), we are building a system that embeds decarbonisation into everyday practices. Our solution combines three critical components:

  • A Data Platform: Designed to provide real-time insights and support informed decision-making throughout the equipment lifecycle.
  • Integrated Processes: Seamlessly embedded within acquisition workflows to ensure sustainability is a key consideration at every stage.
  • Cultural and Behavioural Change: Supporting the organisation to adopt new ways of working that align with sustainability goals.

User-friendly Solutions

This solution is intentionally designed to be accessible and user-friendly, removing the need for specialist knowledge. By integrating decarbonisation into “business as usual,” it ensures long-term impact without disrupting operational effectiveness.

Benefits Beyond Carbon Reduction

The defence sector’s scale and complexity (as with many large organisations) demand solutions that are both adaptable and proportionate. Our approach can be applied to every type of defence equipment. This approach delivers benefits beyond carbon reduction, including:

  • Energy Independence: Reducing reliance on external energy sources.
  • Resilience: Strengthening supply chains and operational sustainability.
  • Innovation: Encouraging new technologies and practices.
  • Enhanced Capability: Improving the performance and longevity of equipment.
  • Cost Savings: Achieving greater efficiency and reducing operating costs.
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The Power of a Multi-Disciplinary Team

This ambitious programme is made possible by a diverse and engaged team. Our specialists bring expertise in:

  • Sustainability and environmental management, 
  • Strategy, 
  • Carbon management, 
  • Data analytics,
  • Systems development, 
  • Business change,
  • Organisational culture, 
  • Commercial strategy. 

Together, we are creating a comprehensive and achievable solution that addresses the unique challenges of the defence sector.

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The Road Ahead

We are immensely proud of the positive impact this project is delivering. The potential to drive real, measurable change is staggering, both for the MoD, the wider government and society. By aligning sustainability with defence priorities, Cala Sustain is helping to shape a resilient, innovative, and sustainable future for the UK.

Outcomes

We are progressing the project toward a proof of concept, targeted for summer 2025. This proof of concept will showcase the solution’s technical feasibility and seamless integration across the organisation, providing assurance to both internal and external stakeholders. Beyond carbon reduction, it will also highlight additional value and demonstrate the potential for widespread implementation at scale.

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Why Choose Cala Sustain?

  • Passionate about sustainability
  • Expertise and professionalism
  • Proven track record
  • Bespoke quality service
  • Focused on delivering long term value

Why Choose Cala Sustain?

  • Passionate about sustainability
  • Expertise and professionalism
  • Proven track record
  • Bespoke quality service
  • Focused on delivering long term value

Second to None

We have collaborated successfully with the Cala Sustain team on a number of occasions. We have always found them to be knowledgeable, reliable, enthusiastic and very experienced. 

In Defence, their understanding of environmental and sustainability policy and standards is second to none. 

Marc Brule-Walker
Integrated Logistic Support Manager
Red Scientific

Always Add Value

The Cala Sustain team has been our trusted support service for all things “responsible business”. They are able to quickly understand and meet our challenges, understand our business and they always add unexpected value. 

The Cala Sustain team is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them highly enough. 

Jerry Beeston
Facilities Manager
Nisbets Plc

We couldn’t have done it without you

I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave us with the renewal of our Royal Warrant.

We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out that we had been successful, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Kate Gough
General Manager
Mitre Linen

Great people to do business with

Mark’s knowledge and understanding of corporate sustainability issues is extensive. His ability to provide practical solutions to difficult problems through the application of analytical and lateral thinking makes him a great person to do business with. 

Phil Harding
MBE

In depth Knowledge

Mark has substantial knowledge and experience of environmental and sustainability management issues, an in-depth knowledge of the Ministry of Defence’s processes and procedures, and a sound knowledge of the wider defence industry. 

Tommy Mason
QINETIQ

Great Partner to work with

Cala Sustain have been a great partner to work with on Sustainable Procurement projects, including for the NHS, Defra and under a variety of Frameworks. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, experience, tenacity and a clear understanding and practical application of the client’s needs.”

Philip Duddell
Sustainable Procurement Limited

Would recommend them

We’ve worked with the team at Cala Sustain over the last few years. We’ve valued their expertise, plus their highly professional and ethical approach and would recommend them to any organisation seeking to develop a company-wide sustainability strategy.

Matt Roper
GREENBUYING

Second to None

We have collaborated successfully with the Cala Sustain team on a number of occasions. We have always found them to be knowledgeable, reliable, enthusiastic and very experienced. 

In Defence, their understanding of environmental and sustainability policy and standards is second to none. 

Marc Brule-Walker
Integrated Logistic Support Manager
Red Scientific

Always Add Value

The Cala Sustain team has been our trusted support service for all things “responsible business”. They are able to quickly understand and meet our challenges, understand our business and they always add unexpected value. 

The Cala Sustain team is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them highly enough. 

Jerry Beeston
Facilities Manager
Nisbets Plc

We couldn’t have done it without you

I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave us with the renewal of our Royal Warrant.

We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out that we had been successful, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Kate Gough
General Manager
Mitre Linen

Great people to do business with

Mark’s knowledge and understanding of corporate sustainability issues is extensive. His ability to provide practical solutions to difficult problems through the application of analytical and lateral thinking makes him a great person to do business with. 

Phil Harding
MBE

In depth Knowledge

Mark has substantial knowledge and experience of environmental and sustainability management issues, an in-depth knowledge of the Ministry of Defence’s processes and procedures, and a sound knowledge of the wider defence industry. 

Tommy Mason
QINETIQ

Great Partner to work with

Cala Sustain have been a great partner to work with on Sustainable Procurement projects, including for the NHS, Defra and under a variety of Frameworks. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, experience, tenacity and a clear understanding and practical application of the client’s needs.”

Philip Duddell
Sustainable Procurement Limited

Would recommend them

We’ve worked with the team at Cala Sustain over the last few years. We’ve valued their expertise, plus their highly professional and ethical approach and would recommend them to any organisation seeking to develop a company-wide sustainability strategy.

Matt Roper
GREENBUYING

Find out how we can help

If you think we could be a good fit for your organisation or project get in touch.
Get in touch
Globe Image - Cala Sustain

Cala Sustain Team Gathering

When it comes to team-building, there’s no better way to bond and create lasting memories than through a combination of fun activities and a beautiful setting. Our recent gathering at the stunning Bishopstrow Hotel and Spa was just that – a memorable experience blending excitement, competition, and relaxation.

Cala Sustain Team away day
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A Thrilling 2-Hour Treasure Hunt

The day kicked off with a dynamic and exhilarating treasure hunt. Split into two teams, we ventured outside into the hotel’s picturesque grounds, which provided the perfect backdrop for our adventure. The hunt was challenging yet fun, that encouraged collaboration, problem-solving, and some good-natured competition. The excitement in the air was palpable as both teams raced against the clock. Whether it was racing through the gardens or deciphering clues near the historic parts of the hotel, every moment was filled with energy and teamwork.

The hunt gave us the chance to both enjoy the outdoors and help strengthen relationships within the team. Each member brought something unique to the table. It was the perfect start to a day of fun and connection.

Relaxing Evening with Beautiful Drinks and a Delicious Meal

After the treasure hunt, we headed back to the Hotel to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved break. The hotel’s stunning setting made it the perfect venue for a relaxed evening.

Dinner was nothing short of spectacular. From the carefully selected starters to the indulgent main courses, the meal was a culinary delight that perfectly complemented the day’s activities.

A Day to Remember

Mark Hedges, Founder and Managing Director at Cala Sustain said,

“The whole day was filled with joy and camaraderie. It was a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and collaboration. A team day is a great way to kick off the New Year.”

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Why Choose Cala Sustain?

  • Passionate about sustainability
  • Expertise and professionalism
  • Proven track record
  • Bespoke quality service
  • Focused on delivering long term value

Why Choose Cala Sustain?

  • Passionate about sustainability
  • Expertise and professionalism
  • Proven track record
  • Bespoke quality service
  • Focused on delivering long term value

Second to None

We have collaborated successfully with the Cala Sustain team on a number of occasions. We have always found them to be knowledgeable, reliable, enthusiastic and very experienced. 

In Defence, their understanding of environmental and sustainability policy and standards is second to none. 

Marc Brule-Walker
Integrated Logistic Support Manager
Red Scientific

Always Add Value

The Cala Sustain team has been our trusted support service for all things “responsible business”. They are able to quickly understand and meet our challenges, understand our business and they always add unexpected value. 

The Cala Sustain team is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them highly enough. 

Jerry Beeston
Facilities Manager
Nisbets Plc

We couldn’t have done it without you

I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave us with the renewal of our Royal Warrant.

We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out that we had been successful, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Kate Gough
General Manager
Mitre Linen

Great people to do business with

Mark’s knowledge and understanding of corporate sustainability issues is extensive. His ability to provide practical solutions to difficult problems through the application of analytical and lateral thinking makes him a great person to do business with. 

Phil Harding
MBE

In depth Knowledge

Mark has substantial knowledge and experience of environmental and sustainability management issues, an in-depth knowledge of the Ministry of Defence’s processes and procedures, and a sound knowledge of the wider defence industry. 

Tommy Mason
QINETIQ

Great Partner to work with

Cala Sustain have been a great partner to work with on Sustainable Procurement projects, including for the NHS, Defra and under a variety of Frameworks. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, experience, tenacity and a clear understanding and practical application of the client’s needs.”

Philip Duddell
Sustainable Procurement Limited

Would recommend them

We’ve worked with the team at Cala Sustain over the last few years. We’ve valued their expertise, plus their highly professional and ethical approach and would recommend them to any organisation seeking to develop a company-wide sustainability strategy.

Matt Roper
GREENBUYING

Second to None

We have collaborated successfully with the Cala Sustain team on a number of occasions. We have always found them to be knowledgeable, reliable, enthusiastic and very experienced. 

In Defence, their understanding of environmental and sustainability policy and standards is second to none. 

Marc Brule-Walker
Integrated Logistic Support Manager
Red Scientific

Always Add Value

The Cala Sustain team has been our trusted support service for all things “responsible business”. They are able to quickly understand and meet our challenges, understand our business and they always add unexpected value. 

The Cala Sustain team is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. I can’t recommend them highly enough. 

Jerry Beeston
Facilities Manager
Nisbets Plc

We couldn’t have done it without you

I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave us with the renewal of our Royal Warrant.

We all breathed a big sigh of relief when we found out that we had been successful, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Kate Gough
General Manager
Mitre Linen

Great people to do business with

Mark’s knowledge and understanding of corporate sustainability issues is extensive. His ability to provide practical solutions to difficult problems through the application of analytical and lateral thinking makes him a great person to do business with. 

Phil Harding
MBE

In depth Knowledge

Mark has substantial knowledge and experience of environmental and sustainability management issues, an in-depth knowledge of the Ministry of Defence’s processes and procedures, and a sound knowledge of the wider defence industry. 

Tommy Mason
QINETIQ

Great Partner to work with

Cala Sustain have been a great partner to work with on Sustainable Procurement projects, including for the NHS, Defra and under a variety of Frameworks. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, experience, tenacity and a clear understanding and practical application of the client’s needs.”

Philip Duddell
Sustainable Procurement Limited

Would recommend them

We’ve worked with the team at Cala Sustain over the last few years. We’ve valued their expertise, plus their highly professional and ethical approach and would recommend them to any organisation seeking to develop a company-wide sustainability strategy.

Matt Roper
GREENBUYING

Find out how we can help

If you think we could be a good fit for your organisation or project get in touch.
Get in touch