Aggregate Industries claims has become the first company in its sector to achieve the Carbon Trust Standard across all its UK operations.

The firm claims to have redeuced its carbon footprint by 11%, representing 15,000t of carbon emissions.

The company now aims to reduce its emissions by 20% by 2012.

As part of its work towards the standard the company developed an Energy Performance Certificate system for all of its asphalt plants.

It has also continued the use of bio-fuels, invested in technology and infrastructure and an increased awareness of carbon emissions across the business.

Bill Bolsover, chief executive officer of Aggregate Industries said: “As the first construction materials company to achieve the Carbon Trust Standard across the business, Aggregate Industries continues its role as industry leader. This follows hot on the heels of our recent accolade as the first to achieve company wide BES 6001 responsible sourcing certification. Sustainable practice is vital to our performance and growth and reducing carbon delivers tangible benefits.”