Horizontal receives major CDP score improvement, reflecting commitment to environmental transparency

We are proud to share that our latest CDP score has improved from a D- to a B. This progress reflects our dedication to environmental transparency, responsible reporting and meaningful action toward a more sustainable future. While this is a major step forward, we recognize that our work is just beginning.

Why our CDP score matters

The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) provides a globally recognized framework for companies to disclose their environmental impact. CDP scores help businesses measure their sustainability performance and offer a transparent benchmark for investors, clients and stakeholders. By moving from a D- to a B, we have demonstrated a stronger commitment to tracking and managing our environmental impact. Notably, the highest possible SME score in 2024 is a B, meaning we have reached the top tier of SME environmental reporting this year.

This improved score highlights our enhanced ability to collect and refine data, particularly in areas such as our operational emissions (Scope 1 and 2). More importantly, it provides us with a strong foundation for expanding our reporting efforts and setting ambitious reduction targets in the future.

Our commitment to data accuracy and expansion

One of the key drivers of our improved CDP score is our commitment to refined and accurate data collection. In 2024, we started reporting our data through Workiva Carbon, focusing our first year on U.S.-based emissions reporting. This included:

• Office energy and gas usage: By reporting our office square footage and lease data, we are able to report our electric and gas usage on a monthly basis.
• Flight emissions tracking: We implemented a standardized process to measure the carbon impact of business travel.
  Purchased goods & services data: We assessed supplier sustainability practices by tracking procurement-related emissions.

With a solid baseline in place, we’re expanding our reporting efforts to ensure a more comprehensive view of our impact. Not only will we be refining our current reporting efforts, but we will be adding:

• Global emissions measurement: This year, we are rolling out our efforts on a global scale, starting with measuring our efforts in India. Assessing our worldwide Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions will establish a more complete picture of our environmental footprint.
• Supplier assessments: We’ll work closely with vendors to ensure sustainability is embedded across our supply chain.
• Stronger reduction targets: With a reliable baseline in place, we will set clear and ambitious emission reduction goals.

The role of our advisory board & sustainability committee 

Our sustainability progress is driven by the collective efforts of our ESG advisory board and sustainability committee. Our ESG advisory board consists of leadership across Horizontal Talent and Horizontal Digital. Our advisory board oversees our goals, mission, promise, stakeholder engagement and operational efficiency. The board ensures that there is proper reporting and that it is shared both internally and externally. The main goals of this board are to align with global guidelines, report progress and ensure alignment with Horizontal’s greater mission and vision.

Our sustainability committee is a volunteer-based group of Horizontal Talent and Digital team members. This committee ensures that employees have a voice in environmental efforts, providing diverse, innovative ideas and contributing their time to the improvement of our ecological footprint. 

Both of these teams have been instrumental in:

• Establishing the methodologies needed for accurate environmental data tracking.
• Identifying areas where we can make immediate and long-term impact.
• Ensuring that sustainability is embedded in our business operations and company culture.

Looking ahead: 2025 sustainability goals

Building on the momentum of our CDP score improvement, we have set clear sustainability objectives for 2025, including:

• Maintaining a B rank on the CDP assessment for another year. 
• Expanding our emissions tracking to cover global operations.
• Conducting a supplier assessment to improve sustainability across our supply chain.
• Hosting two company-wide awareness campaigns and events focused on environmental issues.
• Increasing employee participation in sustainability awareness events.
• Increasing community volunteer hours dedicated to sustainability initiatives.
• Implementing three green building initiatives including reducing single-use office products, refining our recycling program and launching an in-office composting program.
  
  And more!

A strong foundation for future progress

At Horizontal, we believe that data-driven sustainability is key to creating long-term, impactful change. Our improved CDP score is not just a number: It represents our commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement. With a strong baseline in place, we are well-positioned to set meaningful reduction goals and drive greater environmental action.

As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, we remain committed to strengthening our reporting efforts, engaging our employees in sustainability initiatives and ensuring that every step we take contributes to a greener, more responsible future.

For more details on our environmental, social and governance efforts, read our 2024 ESG Report.