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World of Books to be carbon neutral by 2022

12/04/2021 12:35

World of Books Group, the UKs largest retailer of used books, and Charity Retail Association corporate member, have announced plans to be a carbon neutral business by 2022. This commitment forms the first step in their roadmap to Net Zero company by 2030. The announcement comes as the business release their Impact Report for 2020.

Despite a difficult year for everyone, the B Corp certified business has remained committed to using their business as a force for good and continued to have a positive impact for charities, communities and the environment.

World of Books Group have released their second annual Impact Report, telling the story of their social and environmental achievements over the last year and outlining their plans for their next chapter. The business have used this report to officially announce their plan to be a carbon neutral business by 2022 – the first step in their journey to Net Zero by 2030.

Amy Greenacre, Head of Impact, said: “Challenge and change is inevitable, but it causes us to adapt and continually improve – to be the change we want to see in the world. As the world around us is changing, our sense of responsibility, purpose and drive to make a difference remains the same. Climate change is a real and imminent threat to our planet so we’re always taking action to reduce our carbon footprint and are now able to pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2022.”

Over the last two decades the business has grown from a start-up to pioneers of the circular economy. Committed to reducing waste, in the last year over 20,000 tonnes of books were responsibly recycled and the business saved the equivalent of over 26,000 tonnes of new paper through the resale and recycling of used books. The business also made payments of over £1.4 million to charities for unsold books and media during a particularly difficult year for the sector.

Graham Bell, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We’re proud to have helped people navigate these strange and strained times with books that have provided escapism, access to education and wellbeing whilst continuing to support our people and make progress in regards to social and environmental impact. We’re excited to share our latest Impact Report which showcases the many way in which we have taken action and pioneered, at times against the odds”.

World of Books Group’s 2020 Impact Report is now available to view.


You can hear more from World of Books, who are one of the sponsors of the Charity Retail Association’s Green charity retail – the virtual conference running from 25 – 27 May 2021.

Keep an eye out for when booking opens!