Volkswagen has detailed its new environmental policy today, providing a framework across all its group brands (Audi, Seat, Skoda, VW and VW commercial vehicles).

To mark the launch, a number of trees will be planted at the company’s UK head office in Milton Keynes.

However, the tree planting ceremony is not the start of environmental activity at Volkswagen. The company has already switched to a renewable energy to power its two sites in Milton Keynes and is currently buying 100% recycled paper for its head office.

Commitments within the new policy include:

Implementing an environmental management system (EMS) by December

The wise use of resources such as supplies and energy to minimise waste

Maximising re-use and recycling and seeking to increase purchase of recycled or renewable resources

Taking environmental considerations into account when purchasing goods and services

Enhancing internal and external communication about the environmental performance of the company’s products

Promoting ownership and control of environmental issues at all levels throughout the business.

In the UK, the Volkswagen Group has also joined the local Green Business Network (see www.gbn-mk.org), which enables companies to receive advice on resource efficiency and share environmental best practice with other like-minded companies.

For further information on global sustainability within the Volkswagen Group visit: www.volkswagen-sustainability.com