At Tadhg O’Connor Ltd, sustainability is not just a principle — it’s a practice. Rooted in the values that have guided us for generations, we understand that our long-term success is tied to the wellbeing of our environment, our people, and our communities. We are proud of our history and determined to build a responsible, innovative future.
2. Purpose and Scope
This policy outlines our approach to sustainability and applies to all employees, departments, suppliers, and contractors across all our business units and locations. It provides a clear framework to guide decision-making and ensure that we operate responsibly, ethically, and sustainably.
3. Sustainability Commitments
A. Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and actively adopting more sustainable practices.
Our recent actions include:
- Solar Energy Transition In Q1 2025, we installed 56 solar panels at our Newcastle West branch, significantly reducing our reliance on carbon-based electricity.
- Electric Forklifts As of January 2024, we began transitioning our fleet to Mitsubishi battery-powered forklifts. We currently operate seven electric forklifts, with the final diesel model scheduled to be replaced in Q1 2026.
- EV Fleet Conversion Three of our sales representatives now drive fully electric vehicles, and we actively encourage all staff with company vehicles to switch to EVs at their next renewal.
- Waste Reduction and Recycling We have partnered with Panda Waste Management to weigh and measure our waste. By baling and recycling all cardboard products, we’ve reduced landfill waste by 68% over the past 24 months.
- Packaging Waste Reduction We work with suppliers to reduce excess plastic packaging on incoming goods and seek to return or reuse pallet materials where possible. Our warehouse and logistics teams segregate and recycle all incoming packaging, including plastic film and strapping.
- Sustainable Timber and Concrete Products We promote the use of FSC- or PEFC-certified timber and are working with suppliers to expand access to low-carbon concrete and mortar alternatives. Where possible, we prioritise locally made building materials to reduce transport emissions.
- We remain committed to: • Minimising waste through reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal • Improving energy efficiency across all sites • Reducing emissions and promoting clean technology • Promoting eco-friendly products to help customers make sustainable choices • Protecting biodiversity by avoiding harmful environmental practices
B. Social Responsibility
We believe in meaningful relationships with our employees, customers, and local communities. We are committed to: • Prioritising health, safety, and wellbeing at all times • Providing ongoing training, development, and career growth • Maintaining an inclusive, respectful, and supportive work environment • Supporting local charities, sports clubs, and schools • Working with suppliers who uphold human rights and fair labour practices
C. Economic Responsibility
As a family-run business with a long-standing reputation, we aim to operate responsibly and ensure long-term viability. We will: • Build strong, value-driven partnerships with local suppliers • Invest in innovations that improve efficiency and customer experience • Integrate sustainability into procurement and investment decisions • Maintain financial health for the benefit of future generations
4. Supporting Sustainability in the Building and Hardware Sector
Promoting Sustainable Building Products
We are actively growing our product offering to include more sustainably sourced, energy-efficient, and low-impact materials such as FSC-certified timber, eco-friendly paints, insulation with low embodied carbon, and biodegradable or recyclable building supplies. Our team is trained to advise customers on environmentally responsible product choices wherever possible.
Supply Chain Collaboration
We prioritise building material suppliers that offer Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), use recycled packaging, and have clear commitments to reducing the carbon impact of their operations. We also engage directly with suppliers to encourage continuous improvement in environmental standards.
5. Roles and Responsibilities
Every employee has a role to play in sustainability. Management is responsible for leading by example, embedding sustainable practices into operations, and supporting innovation. Sustainability champions may be appointed to lead initiatives and track progress.
6. Monitoring and Reporting
We monitor key sustainability indicators such as: • Energy usage and solar power generation • Waste volumes and recycling rates • Emissions from vehicles and logistics
These results are reviewed regularly by senior management and help guide future improvements. Staff and customer feedback is welcomed to help shape our ongoing efforts.
7. Continuous Improvement
We recognise sustainability as an ongoing journey. We will:
- Review this policy annually to reflect updated standards, innovations, and practices
- Offer sustainability training and engage staff in improvement ideas
- Encourage initiative and input from employees at all levels
8. Communication
This policy is communicated across all parts of the business and included in staff induction and training. It is made available to customers, suppliers, and partners. Sustainability achievements will be shared both internally and externally to promote engagement and ongoing progress.
This policy is approved by senior management and will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and effective.
Last reviewed: May 2025
Next scheduled review: May 2026
Signed on behalf of Tadhg O’Connor Ltd:
Eoin O'Connor - Managing Director