Coastal’s environmental performance has improved from Silver to Gold, according to a recent external evaluation.

SHIFT is the sustainability standard for the housing sector and carries out audits across the UK. It awarded Coastal its Silver accreditation back in 2021, giving particular praise for the energy efficiency of Coastal’s new and existing homes, as well as its work to prevent fuel poverty. Coastal’s performance has improved in the second year of its involvement with SHIFT, and this has resulted in an upgrade to its Gold accreditation.

2022 saw the launch of Coastal’s new sustainability strategy and a pledge to take all possible action to manage the climate emergency. New initiatives undertaken last year included the rollout of carbon literacy training to staff, the #MoreGreeneryIsNeeded campaign and new electric vehicles to replace fossil-fuelled vans across more of Coastal’s fleet. Coastal is sponsor of the Energy and Environment Zone at this year’s Swansea City Centre Conference and will be exhibiting at the event.

“We’re delighted to see our ongoing sustainability journey recognised by SHIFT, who have improved our accreditation from Silver to Gold”, says Chief Executive Debbie Green. “Whilst there is clearly still significant change that needs to happen, it’s heartening to hear that our efforts to date have made a difference and that we have deliverable plans for the future in place.”