Go-Ahead

This year we have seen a slowdown in the UK economy brought about by the turbulence in the global financial markets. But the underlying strength of the Group, helped by a decade of significant investment, means we are well positioned to face current economic challenges.

Go-Ahead has a distinctive and industry-leading approach to corporate responsibility. We were the first in our sector to publish both environmental performance and environmental and social reports for the Group and individual operating companies. Last year we were also first in our sector to publish an Economic Impact Report quantifying our impact on the UK economy, employment and skills, communities and the environment.

Go-Ahead is committed to playing a key part in delivering solutions aimed at tackling climate change. This year, Go-Ahead became the first public transport company to be officially certified with the CarbonTrust Standard. This is the only UK independent certification focused on climate change and requires companies to take internal action to reduce their carbon footprint and make commitments to reducing it year on year.

We invest in leading technology to reduce the emissions of our trains and buses, but our most important contribution is to provide high quality services in an environmentally responsible way, and therefore to encourage people to make a positive choice for public transport. Convincing car users that public transport is a viable and convenient alternative is a must if we are serious about contributing to carbon reduction.

I am proud of our achievements this year and look forward to continuing to deliver further improvements to our performance and seeking ways to innovate and lead the way in our sector.

Keith Ludeman
Group Chief Executive