Silverburn Cares about Sustainability (ESG)
Silverburn Cares was established in 2007 to support local community groups and initiatives through donations and volunteer events. Since then, it has evolved to encompass all aspects of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).
Today, Silverburn Cares sets clear targets for reducing carbon emissions and minimising environmental impact, reinforcing our commitment to creating a sustainable retail and leisure destination. We focus on delivering eco-friendly experiences that support a thriving, resilient community.
Short-term targets
90% reduction in Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions, achieved through:
~ Upgrading 2 Air Handling Units to energy-efficient heat pumps.
~ Installation of 10 fast electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
~ Replacement of all car park lighting with energy-saving smart LED systems.
50% reduction in Scope 1, 2 & 3 GHG emissions, supported by:
~ Procuring energy through certified green energy contracts.
Long-term target
90% Greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions (Scope 1, 2 & 3)
We are actively targeting a 90% reduction in Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by focusing on our supply chain practices. This includes working closely with contractors to ensure sustainable material sourcing and reducing the overall carbon footprint across all operations.
Progress: Since 2019, Silverburn has reduced its energy intensity by 44%
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Initiatives
Electricity for common areas is sourced through certified green energy contracts.
935 solar panels installed on the roof generate approximately 188,830 kWh annually, meeting 12% of the electricity demand for common areas – that’s equivalent to powering 54 homes each year.
Between 2023 and 2024, Silverburn achieved a 2% reduction in electricity consumption (equivalent to 40,192 kWh), preventing approximately 9.36 tonnes of CO₂ emissions from entering the atmosphere.
Water Conservation
In 2024, Silverburn reduced water consumption by 3% or 373,000 litres compared to 2023, equivalent to approximately 2,487 bathtubs of water saved.
Gas Reduction and Efficiency
Two new air source heat pumps will be installed in 2025 to further reduce gas usage.
Since 2019, gas consumption has decreased by 340,747 kWh, a 24% reduction, preventing approximately 271 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Waste Management and Recycling
Achieved and maintained zero waste to landfill since 2018.
Annually, we reuse approximately 2,400 pallets and 1.8 tonnes of clothes hangers.
In 2024, 939 tonnes of waste were recycled, equivalent to the weight of 63 double-decker buses.
Construction waste is sorted on-site by contractors prior to collection, ensuring responsible disposal and recycling.
Award-Winning Sustainability Efforts
Silverburn’s security team are proud recipients of the first-ever Global OSPAs (Outstanding Security Sustainability Award). As part of their sustainability efforts, the team has planted over 2,000 native trees and achieved official accreditation from the UK Woodland Carbon Code.
Biodiversity Initiatives
~ Expanded the eco-hub to include a composting area and a dedicated space for plant recovery and recycling.
~ Four new beehives were installed in spring 2025, now home to approximately 30,000 honeybees.
~ Planning the creation of a wildflower meadow in spring 2026 to enhance local biodiversity.
~ Ongoing stewardship of the Brock Burn River, including monthly inspections and the removal of foreign objects such as shopping trolleys and fly-tipping waste to protect the local ecosystem.
Local Jobs
94 staff members are directly employed by Silverburn, with 56% of them residing within a 3-mile radius of the centre.
Silverburn retailers contribute approximately £8 million in business rates annually to the local authority.
In partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Silverburn hosts an annual jobs fair, facilitating the creation of hundreds of job opportunities each year.
New store openings in 2025 are expected to generate 400 new jobs at Silverburn, supporting local employment.
Thriving Communities
Silverburn operates the largest fleet of free mobility scooters, with over 4,200 registered users, ensuring that vulnerable community members can access essential services and maintain an independent shopping experience.
Silverburn and its service partners are dedicated to being Real Living Wage employers.
100% of Silverburn’s management employees are committed to setting at least one sustainability or community-focused objective each year.
Silverburn and its service partners provide staff with at least one day of paid leave annually to participate in meaningful community volunteer activities.
Silverburn has contributed £4,400 in donations of food and toys to the Pollok Pantry – SWAMP Community Development Trust.
Silverburn works in partnership with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity to deliver engaging and fun campaigns for visiting families to enjoy, whilst also making a positive impact to the lives of children and families in hospital. Since 2023, Silverburn has raised over £217,000 for the charity at Silverburn through seasonal events such as our indoor Flamingo Beach and Santa Meet & Greets.
