Sustainability at The Gym group
We are the UK’s first carbon neutral gym chain
At The Gym Group, our purpose is to break down barriers to fitness for everyone. Sustainability is massively important to this ambition because we care about our members living healthier and more rewarding lives within the natural balance of the planet.
We know that with over 230 gyms across the UK, and at such a huge moment for tackling climate change, we owe it to our members and the communities we serve to put sustainability at the top of the list.
Our net zero targets
To show we really mean it, we are committed to achieving our near term target of 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 and decarbonising these emissions by 2035. In addition, we have committed to a science based target to achieve net zero by 2045.¹²³
In fact, we are so keen to put our money where our proverbial mouth is that we are also offsetting our current carbon emissions by investing in high-quality offsetting projects. And these aren’t any old projects, they are all carefully selected and certified by internationally recognised bodies. Because of this, we are super proud to have become the UK’s first carbon neutral gym chain.
Our carbon neutral strategy
But back to carbon net-zero. How do we get there? There’s only one way and that’s by reducing our carbon emissions. We have a plan and this is it:
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We are already purchasing 100% renewable energy and are committed to continuing to do so
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Over the coming years we will remove all gas for water heating in our gyms
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We have replaced all lighting in our gyms with LED lights
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We will upgrade and network building control systems
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We have a high-quality maintenance programme in place to ensure all our equipment is working as efficiently as possible
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We are working on reducing our waste to landfill and are pleased that we were able to recycle 95% of our waste in 2021
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We are constantly reviewing and improving the design and fit out of our gyms to ensure maximum energy efficiency (e.g. solar energy in Cambridge, EV charging in Northampton, using condensation from air-conditioning to flush toilets)
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We are removing single use plastic from our vending machines (e.g. Cardboard boxes for locks, biodegradable plastic for towels)
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We conduct frequent energy audits across our operations
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We have high efficiency showers
Even more information is available in our 2021 Sustainability Report.
What can you do to help?
Short showers
As water can be a scarce resource, even in the UK, it’s best not to shower longer than necessary
Bring your bottle
All our gyms have water fountains and Yanga sports water, so don’t forget your re-usable bottle for refills
Bring your towel
We have vending machines for towels but do bring your own along if you can
Avoid driving
Public transport is a great way to travel sustainably to the gym, but walking, jogging or cycling are all nifty ways to extend
Recycle
There are recycling bins throughout our gyms with instructions on how to use in the best way
About the Gym Group
It’s our mission to break down barriers to fitness for everyone in the UK at affordable prices.