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Summary External Verification Statement
Objectives and Scope
Casella Stanger has been commissioned by Carillion plc to conduct an independent verification of its 2004 corporate sustainability targets. The targets are the main method by which Carillion demonstrates its sustainability performance each year.
The overall aim of the verification exercise undertaken by Casella Stanger is to assess target performance and provide assurance to stakeholders that the information provided is accurate, reliable and objective. The process we have used in this verification exercise is based on current best practice, such as that detailed in the Global Reporting Initiative and AccountAbility standard AA1000.
Methodology
The 2004 corporate sustainability targets were verified through independent audit of information and data provided by Carillion plc. During the audit evidence of target achievement was reviewed. This involved inspection of internal and external records, document review, interrogation of in-house databases and discussions with appropriate staff responsible for the delivery of targets. Progress against a total of 11 targets was verified.
Target Performance
• In 2004 the average target score was 90% with 8 out of 11 (73%) targets being fully achieved. This is consistent with the performance achieved over the last 5 years.
Opinion - Completeness, Materiality and Responsiveness of report
• We are satisfied that Carillion has published a complete and accurate reflection of progress against its corporate sustainability target achievement.
• Progress within Carillion is demonstrated by the continued integration of sustainability throughout Carillion at corporate and project level.
• The scope of Carillion’s sustainability targets continue to cover issues of material importance to its operations and are aligned with Carillion’s core business values.
• We were particularly impressed by the level of community engagement. Further details of best practice are contained within the full verification statement.
• The 2004 targets demonstrated a continued improvement towards sustainable development. However, the linkage between the corporate targets and the business group targets is not clear and further dissemination and implementation of best practice throughout the business is needed.
• A number of recommendations were made as part of last year’s verification process, however, it is not clear how these were progressed in 2004. Therefore, our overarching recommendation would be that Carillion develop a formalised process at the beginning of the reporting year to ensure that these are captured. This recommendation also applied last year.
• As part of Casella Stanger’s verification a series of further priority recommendations were identified and provided to Carillion plc.
Signature
Nicola Fagan
Senior Consultant
April 2005
Casella-Stanger
Great Guildford House
30 Great Guildford Street
London
SE1 OES
www.casellagroup.com |
