Why This Session Mattered
PAS 2080 isn’t new, but the March 2023 revision has brought fresh clarity and relevance. The standard is fast becoming the go-to framework for carbon management in infrastructure, especially as organisations face increasing pressure – from clients, legislation, and public expectation – to prove they’re reducing their environmental impact.
As an ISEP Corporate Partnership Manager, my role isn’t just to facilitate events – it’s to help connect partners to insight, opportunity, and each other. This session did exactly that.
Breaking Down the Complexity
Dave and Joe did a fantastic job of demystifying PAS 2080, outlining not just the “what” but also the “why” and the “how.” What stood out was their emphasis on whole-life carbon, the need for early-stage collaboration across the value chain, and the practical tools and processes that enable meaningful carbon reduction.
They managed to take a highly technical subject and make it accessible – something all of us working towards a sustainable future should strive to do. From the carbon reduction hierarchy to the principles of circular economy and procurement, the session was a masterclass in strategic carbon thinking.
Real-World Perspective: Speedy Hire
Hearing directly from Matthew Pygott at Speedy Hire brought a practical and inspiring dimension to the session. Speedy’s achievement as the first hire company globally to be PAS 2080 certified shows how embedding a carbon management system can serve both operational needs and commercial goals.
What struck me was Matthew’s honesty about the audit process – not always associated with the word ‘enjoyable’ – and the message that PAS 2080 should be seen as a revenue enabler, not a compliance burden.
Why Facilitation Matters
Sessions like this remind me why good facilitation is more than logistics. It’s about asking the right questions, aligning the right speakers, and ensuring there’s space for interaction. It was heartening to see the chat buzzing with questions, offers to collaborate, and shared challenges. It reinforced the importance of creating environments where professionals feel safe to explore and learn together.
Looking Ahead
As PAS 2080 continues to gain momentum – especially with growing uptake from Network Rail, National Highways, and potentially the NHS – the value of these kinds of knowledge-sharing sessions will only grow. For many of our corporate partners, sessions like these serve as a springboard: into internal conversations, capability building, and real change.
To Dave, Joe, and Matthew – thank you for your generosity, expertise, and clarity. And to everyone who attended, thank you for being part of this journey.
Let’s keep elevating each other.
Later this year, ISEP will be launching a Register of Carbon Accountants and Auditors, which will help PAS 2080 professionals and businesses to connect with one another. For more information, and to subscribe for updates on the Register, visit: ISEP - Organisational recognition
