• Inaugural report from UK Defence ESG Charter shows half of energy used by signatories is renewable, at least a 20% increase in early careers roles and a one third increase in gender diversity
  • Report showcases ESG highlights from seven leading defence firms who collectively employ 92,000 people in defence throughout the UK
  • Data highlights how being a good corporate citizen has driven increased value from defence to the UK economy

London (20 February 2025) – In the inaugural UK Defence ESG Charter Report, seven leading defence organisations have showcased their ongoing, intrinsic commitment to ESG principles. The report – published by trade association ADS, founders of the UK Defence ESG Charter – indicates that half of energy is sourced renewably, there has been a one third increase in diversity in employment, and a significant reduction in the intergenerational STEM skills gap. 

Findings from the report show that in 2023, half of the energy consumed by signatories was sourced from renewables, while signatories saw over a 1/3 reduction in their combined Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions.

The report has also highlighted the sector’s ongoing progress to improve diversity, equity and inclusion across all levels. On gender equality, 20,500 women were employed by Charter signatories in 2023, representing a 28% year-on-year increase. Furthermore, signatories have demonstrated increases in early careers employment opportunities, with a 20% increase in graduate scheme employment and 25% increase in apprenticeship employment respectively.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, said: 

“The UK defence industry produces world-class equipment that helps keep us and our allies safe. The companies support tens of thousands of skilled jobs and apprentices across the country, all while maintaining the strictest standards of governance.

“Through our Defence Industrial Strategy work we are backing industry to be an engine for UK economic growth. The efforts demonstrated by the sector in the ESG Charter report are a reassuring reminder of our collective commitments to environment, social and governance principles.”

Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS, described the report as the “beginning of a long journey” and encouraged more stakeholders to sign up to the report’s aims.

He said, “Marking the start of a much-anticipated process, this report has highlighted that – against a backdrop of growing security challenges – it remains crucial that we continue to grow our industry sustainably.”

“Just one year since the launch of the Charter, it's fantastic to support companies in fulfilling their commitments and witnessing their progress to diversity, decarbonisation, and upholding high regulatory standards. Being a good corporate citizen remains a key principle if we are to increase the value of our sector for the UK economy and our place in UK society.”

Operating under the highest levels of regulation and compliance, the report has also shown that our Charter signatories fulfil the UK’s standards on cybersecurity and information security management (ISO27001). By adhering to high standards of governance and sustaining a comprehensive export control system, the sector is well placed to support the growth of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous nation.

The inaugural Edition of the UK Defence ESG Charter Report reflects how far industries have come in recent years on their individual ESG journeys. Going forward, the Charter network, including eight new signatories, will continue to reflect industry progress through data points and real-life case studies.

The UK Defence ESG Charter was launched in January 2024 by seven leading prime organisations. During the launch event, ADS further welcomed 8 new signatories to the charter.