Costain Group PLC, commonly known as Costain, is a leading UK-based engineering solutions provider headquartered in GB. Founded in 1865, the company has established a strong presence across various operational regions, including England, Scotland, and Wales. Specialising in infrastructure, Costain focuses on sectors such as transportation, water, and energy, delivering innovative solutions that enhance sustainability and efficiency. With a commitment to digital transformation and smart technology, Costain offers unique services that set it apart in the industry. The company has achieved notable milestones, including significant contributions to major infrastructure projects, which solidify its market position as a trusted partner in the engineering sector. Through its dedication to safety and sustainability, Costain continues to drive progress in the UK’s infrastructure landscape.
How does Costain's carbon action stack up? DitchCarbon scores companies based on their carbon action and commitment to reducing emissions. Read about our methodology to learn more.
Mean score of companies in the Construction Work industry. Comparing a company's score to the industry average can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Costain's score of 83 is higher than 91% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
In 2024, Costain Group PLC reported total carbon emissions of approximately 278,218,000 kg CO2e, with Scope 1 emissions at about 4,772,000 kg CO2e, Scope 2 emissions at approximately 888,000 kg CO2e (location-based), and a significant contribution from Scope 3 emissions, which totalled around 272,558,000 kg CO2e. This data reflects a slight decrease from 2023, where total emissions were about 281,355,000 kg CO2e. Costain has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for a 42% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 from a 2021 baseline. Additionally, they target a 90% reduction in these emissions by 2050. For Scope 3 emissions, the company also aims for a 42% reduction by 2030 and a 90% reduction by 2050. These targets are aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and are designed to keep global warming below 1.5°C. Furthermore, Costain has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2050. The company has initiated project-wide carbon reduction initiatives, which are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by around 40% by 2025. Overall, Costain's emissions data and climate commitments demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing climate change, with clear targets and a commitment to sustainability in the construction and engineering sector.
Access structured emissions data, company-specific emission factors, and source documents
| 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 19,488,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
| Scope 2 | 5,606,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 000,000 | 000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 00,000 | 000,000 | 000,000 |
| Scope 3 | - | - | - | - | - | 00,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 |
Costain's Scope 3 emissions, which decreased by 1% last year and increased significantly since 2020, demonstrating supply chain emissions tracking. Nearly all of their carbon footprint comes from suppliers and value chain emissions, representing nearly all emissions under the GHG Protocol, with "Purchased Goods and Services" being the largest emissions source at 96% of Scope 3 emissions.
Climate goals typically focus on 2030 interim targets and 2050 net-zero commitments, aligned with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to ensure alignment with global climate goals.
Costain has established climate goals through participation in recognized frameworks and target-setting initiatives. Companies often set interim 2030 targets and long-term 2050 net-zero goals to demonstrate measurable progress toward decarbonization.

Common questions about Costain's sustainability data and climate commitments