Our actions today shape the future of our business, communities, and planet.
IPS-Integrated Project Services, LLC is a privately owned limited liability company headquartered in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. IPS operates in a number of countries through subsidiary companies which trade under the IPS name.
Our Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have been externally verified with limited assurance. The emissions data reported covers IPS’ operations from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023, aligning with financial reporting for IPS. The emissions boundary includes all entities operating under the IPS name, as well as, subsidiaries globally.
To ensure the most current information for our stakeholders, some IPS initiatives, policies and other qualitative updates extend from January of the reporting year to July of the release year.
For all ESG-related inquiries, please contact Marne Quillinan at MQuillinan@ipsdb.com.
Publication Date: August 13, 2024.
LETTER FROM OUR CEO
It is with great enthusiasm that I present IPS-Integrated Project Services’ first Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report. This report marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and globally integrated future.
In 2023, we continued on a transformative path to elevate our global efforts in training, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), safety, and sustainability. Our vision is not just to meet targets, but to weave these principles into the very core of our operations and culture, ensuring that they drive innovation and excellence across the entire business. We believe that our commitment to ESG principles is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage that positions us at the forefront of our industry.
ESG is not just about setting and reporting metrics, it showcases the progress and initiatives that reflect our core values and define our identity as a business.
Our commitment to sustainability has never been stronger. This year, we set ambitious science-based targets and embraced renewable energy goals that align with international standards. We are proud to announce strategic goals and benchmarks for future reporting at IPS, a significant step in our mission to reduce our carbon footprint and lead the industry by example. Furthermore, we have implemented comprehensive waste reduction programs and enhanced our sustainable procurement practices, ensuring that our supply chain partners share our dedication to environmental stewardship.
DEI remains at the forefront of our business, championed by our executive team. Our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is integral to our identity and our success, as well as, the health and well-being of our employees. These efforts are not only about creating a more inclusive workplace
“Our first ESG report is a significant milestone in our pursuit of securing a more sustainable and inclusive future for our employees, clients, and community.”
but also about harnessing the diverse perspectives and talents that drive our innovation and growth.
Our ESG strategy is intentionally aligned with our core business strategy, as many ESG focus areas affect our business performance and outlook. Accordingly, our governance model ensures engagement from our most senior leaders and key functional areas. Oversight by our ESG subcommittee and executive leadership team is a critical element of maintaining the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and ethical behavior in all that we do. Our governance framework is designed to foster a culture of integrity and responsibility, with policies and procedures that guide our decision-making and ensure that we act in the best interests of all our stakeholders.
we look towards the future, we will seize every opportunity to amplify our impact and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.
We recognize that this is the start of our journey, but we are unwavering in our resolve to lead by example and inspire positive change in the future.
This report highlights the initiatives we have undertaken, the progress we have made, and our commitments for the future. We have begun to set measurable goals, and are determined to hold ourselves accountable to meet these goals. As
We all share a stake in the future, and together, we can achieve extraordinary things. IPS will continue to innovate, collaborate, and push the boundaries of what is possible, as we work to build a better world for generations to come.
In short, we strive to be awesome.
Jim Stephanou — Chief Executive Officer
INTRODUCTION TO IPS
MISSION
Enable our clients to create and manufacture life-impacting products around the world.
VISION
IPS is the premier global knowledge leader delivering innovating, technology-based business solutions to help our clients succeed.
IPS has helped clients deliver life-impacting products globally by designing facilities on nearly every continent.
Who We Are
Across the spectrum of IPS, a legacy of outstanding quality and innovation are the common threads. These achievements are driven by something even more fundamental to our company and our culture—an unwavering commitment to client collaboration. Designing and constructing life sciences facilities from R&D to commercial manufacturing are what our teams excel in, but as a full-service EPCMV (engineering, procurement, construction management, and validation) firm, our reputation is built on our ability to tackle any challenge presented to us.
Our identity extends beyond our technical abilities: we are recognized not only for our industryleading skills but also for our dedication to ethics, a vibrant employee culture, and remarkable growth. Each of which is inextricably linked to ESG.
Indicates Project Location
Our vision, mission,
and values are
linked with ESG factors.
We know that in the years to come, our success will depend on our ability to continue to execute our mission, while also continuously improving our performance in ESG factors. Consistent with our values, our ESG framework incorporates the core of who we are as a forward-looking, responsible, and innovative business.
VALUES
Safety
We commit to ensuring a safe and healthy environment for our employees, contractors, clients and the citizens of the communities in which we operate. We are proud of our culture of safety.
Innovation
We enjoy learning, creating, and continually improving our tools, methods, solutions, and service delivery system for the benefit of our clients and the world. We are visionaries.
Collaboration
We foster an environment that promotes teamwork among our staff, partners, vendors, and clients. We are one team.
Respect
We conduct ourselves with uncompromising honesty and true commitment to the welfare of our clients and each other. We are valued partners.
Entrepreneurship
We consistently seek new opportunities in a persistent quest for excellence to deliver value and help our clients succeed. We thrive on challenge.
Passion
We approach our work enthusiastically with contagious energy and drive. We exemplify Knowledge, Skill & Passion.
INTRODUCTION TO ESG
ESG represents our commitment to uphold the highest standard of integrity in all we do. We are dedicated to transparency and accountability, adhering to industry standards and best practices to track our progress in a measurable, comparable, and internationally recognized way.
Ecovadis
IPS has been assessed by Ecovadis since 2015 and was awarded a Commitment Badge based on our 2023 submission. Engaging EcoVadis has given us the framework to comprehensively develop our ESG program.
CDP
IPS annually reports our environmental data to CDP to promote transparency and action on climate change within our industry. This disclosure platform has helped IPS understand and manage our environmental risks. We use our score to benchmark our performance and identify areas for improvement.
Science Based Targets Initiative
IPS has submitted for near-term target verification to the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi) and anticipates an approved target by 2025.
Once we obtain target approval from the SBTi, IPS will annually disclosed our emissions reduction progress and provide transparency on our emission reduction road map.
UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
IPS has identified 10 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where we make the greatest contributions across our work with clients, community, and in our daily operations.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are a set of 17 global goals designed to be a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.” They were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These goals are important because they help guide our efforts to make a positive impact and align our initiatives with global sustainability priorities.
As we further develop our ESG program, each selected SDG will have internal targets to ensure our global sustainable efforts and strategy are aligned to demonstrate measurable progress and transparency.
ESG Materiality Assessment
IPS conducted an ESG materiality assessment to understand and prioritize the challenges
and opportunities that we not only have the largest influence on but also are critical to the long-term sustainability of our business. Overseen by the ESG subcommittee, this assessment will inform strategic decisionmaking as the ESG program grows to ensure we align our business strategy with our ESG priorities.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Our sustainability efforts have grown exponentially in the last three years into a formal program that spans across nearly every business function.
IPS worked on over 1 MILLION square-feet of LEED registered projects in 2023.
Our first ESG report is an important milestone in our sustainability journey. We continue to cultivate a culture of sustainability at IPS as an integral part of who we are and how we do business. The outcome produces positive impacts not just for our carbon footprint, but in the facilities we design.
As the Director of Sustainability, I am pleased to introduce the Environmental section of IPS’ 2023 ESG Report. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is integral to our mission and demonstrated by the shared action across our many business functions. Through this collaboration, we have made significant strides towards reducing our ecological footprint, prioritizing resource efficiency, and fostering a culture of sustainability.
There are two components of IPS’ environmental impact that we have begun measuring. The first component is our own operational footprint across procurement, construction, office tenancies, business travel, commuting and other general operations. The second lies indirectly in the facilities we design, construct and commission for our clients’ ultimate operational footprint. How we track and report this footprint, in addition to other policies and procedures, supports our corporate reporting frameworks and is reported to our clients
through CDP and Ecovadis. Our 2023 GHG data set is currently in review for approval of Science Based Targets (SBTi).
As a business function, Sustainability supports a large portion of the greater ESG strategy, primarily within Environmental, but with important ties to Social and Governance, as well. Over the last 3 years, Sustainability at IPS has grown from a grassroots effort within the design disciplines into a formal program that influences project design, construction, commissioning, corporate policy and annual reporting. I’m excited to lead our team in continuing to grow and influence the culture of Sustainability at IPS.
Geoff Brock — Director of Sustainability
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AT IPS
IPS aims to be an industry leader by demonstrating measurable progress in reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, managing waste, advancing biodiversity, and conserving water resources. We recognize our responsibility to promote and implement sustainable practices in our own operations and in the projects we execute.
2023 HIGHLIGHTS
NEAR-TERM TARGET VERIFICATION
IPS has submitted for target verification to the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi) and anticipates an approved target by 2025.
SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION
IPS achieved “good” tier on our first formal submission as Contractor’s Commitment signatories.
SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT
IPS implemented the Avetta One ESG platform to monitor and engage our supply chain.
POLICY DEVELOPMENT
IPS published an Operational Environmental Sustainability Policy and an Operational Sustainable Procurement Policy.
100% RENEWABLE ENERGY
IPS is committing to procure 100% renewable energy (Scope 2)*.
*Scope 2 details can be found on page 15.
At IPS, we understand that the life science industry’s mission to enhance quality of life and protect health extends to the very environments where innovation happens.
That’s why we are dedicated to designing and building spaces that prioritize both human and animal well-being and ecological sustainability.
By integrating cutting-edge technologies with innovative design and construction methods, we create buildings that not only foster scientific progress but also champion environmental resilience and resource conservation.
Our approach is comprehensive, addressing every stage of a project’s life cycle. We use sustainable materials, renewable energy sources, and strive for green building certifications to set new standards in the life sciences industry. Our commitment to continuous improvement means we regularly
evaluate and refine our practices to align with the latest environmental standards and best practices.
Sustainability is at the heart of our EPCMV delivery method. Our sustainability team transcends traditional engineering roles, driving cross-functional coordination to implement pioneering strategies in energy management, decarbonization, and water use reduction.
From pursuing green certifications to achieving specific project and corporate goals, our sustainability team works hand-in-hand with the design, estimating, procurement, and construction teams. This collaboration ensures that materials with sustainable attributes are optimized, and the environmental impact of construction operations is minimized. To further enhance the life cycle of our buildings, we leverage our in-house commissioning resources to ensure the most efficient ongoing building operations.
At IPS, we don’t just build for today—we build for a sustainable, resilient future.
PROJECT SUSTAINABILITY BY THE NUMBERS
LEED REGISTERED PROJECTS
Our projects represent the largest opportunity to make a sustainable impact. IPS worked on over one million square feet of LEED registered projects in 2023.
1 M SQUARE FEET
48%
Electricity generated from on-site PV light pole towers.
200+
Over 200 new Health Product Declarations (HPDs) collected.
150+ 35,200 kWh
Over 150 new Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) collected.
#2
57% TOTAL DESIGN REVENUE
In 2023, registered LEED and BREEAM projects accounted for 48% of our total design revenue.
57% of total 2023 IPS construction revenue was from a registered LEED and BREEAM project.
IPS has consistently been listed as a ‘Top Green Design Firm’ and contractor through Engineering NewsRecord (ENR). In 2023, IPS ranked #40 for overall ‘Top Green Design Firms’ and #48 for overall ‘Top Green Contractors.’ We achieved the following rankings in the Manufacturing & Industrial sector:
Green Design Firm Manufacturing & Industrial
#4 Green Contractor Manufacturing & Industrial
GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY
(IPS Operational Boundary)
Aligned with the GHG Protocol, IPS has conducted a comprehensive GHG inventory of our 2023 Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions to establish our baseline year.
Our emissions data has been verified with limited assurance to ISO 14064-3 for emissions across all three scopes for 2023.
Our Scope 1 and 2 emissions are the result of electricity and natural gas usage at our offices, and our office leased vehicles. Our Scope 3 emissions represent the bulk of our footprint, of which the largest category is Purchased Goods and Services that includes pass-through costs from our project procurement.
Operational Control was selected as the consolidation approach for this GHG inventory. The Organizational Boundary includes companies across the IPS enterprise (Linesight and Cardinal Group USA, LLC).
Disclosure: IPS’ impact on the carbon footprint of construction goes far beyond the GHG Protocol and SBTi guidance of the construction manager’s “boundary” of scope 1 and 2 emissions reporting. While much of the owner and subcontractor procured energy and pass through costs circumvents the Construction Manager’s scope 1 and 2 carbon accounting (some falling within scope 3), they are orders of magnitude greater than the otherwise remaining scope 1 and 2 footprint from office tenancies, trailers and fleet vehicles. This provides a challenge to the construction management industry when urged to focus on and set measurable goals for their own scope 1 and 2 footprint even though there are greater opportunities to influence carbon emission reductions from job site electricity usage, job site fuels and purchased goods and services (materials, equipment and other services). IPS has chosen to address this conundrum and be fully transparent about what must be within our boundary for the sake of industry-consistent carbon accounting, even though our more impactful influence lies elsewhere. Therefore, IPS’ operational strategies will prioritize what will have a greater overall carbon emission impact, even though most is lost in the larger mix of scope 3 values, outside our scope 1 and 2 boundary. IPS captures energy, water and waste data monthly from the construction site to support this effort. We aim to reduce uncertainty, due to the spend based method and/or the lack of available emissions factors, through working closely with suppliers over the coming years.
PROJECT SUSTAINABILITY
We are honored to collaborate with clients who share our values of improving health and well-being for patients and the planet. Using thoughtful design strategies, we can reduce the environmental impact of life science manufacturing and research facilities across the globe.
IPS’ sustainability strategy leverages measurable project-specific opportunities to support targets for carbon, energy, water and waste across the project lifecycle. The industries we serve consume significant amounts of natural resources and energy, and even small improvements can result in significant savings. IPS consistently looks for ways to improve sustainability outcomes from design through construction and commissioning.
Having collaborated with life sciences clients for over 35 years, we know that speed-to-market continues to be a challenge and we aim to improve project outcomes for our clients while also delivering energy conservation, economic benefits, and efficient project completion through our integrated delivery model.
DESIGN
IPS establishes operational energy targets (beyond code minimum) early in design by benchmarking against the appropriate facilities, setting certifications (like LEED) or understanding client goals. Energy is evaluated contextually, balancing energy cost, decarbonization, and overall efficiency. The focus in design is supported by feasibility assessments, iterative energy modeling, budgeting and procurement support.
CONSTRUCTION
IPS reduces the energy footprint during construction by focusing on overall schedule efficiency, strategic phasing, and eliminating re-work. Our greatest opportunities for decarbonization lie in:
• Advancing temporary power accommodations to eliminate the need for generators
• Increasing battery storage for mobile power sources
• Utilizing solar PV light towers and charging stations
• Securing electrified mobile equipment
COMMISSIONING
IPS plays a crucial role in commissioning by linking design intent to operational efficiency. As a commissioning agent, we conduct early design reviews to ensure that system calibration and programming are verified. This ensures that controls function correctly to optimize operations and alert facility staff of deviations, facilitating ongoing iterative improvements.
IPS influences reductions in operational energy through our design, construction, and commissioning processes, ensuring that sustainable practices are integrated at every stage.
PROJECT SUSTAINABILITY
Water
IPS addresses water efficiency during both the design and construction of a project.
In design, IPS has implemented intentional standards for water savings based on both efficiency and re-use. Water resources are addressed in both potable water and sanitary discharge of a facility, while also addressing rain and stormwater management both in terms of site retention and re-use.
In construction, our influence in water resources manifests in job site usage (including necessary elements of dust mitigation, cleaning and concrete washout). Site runoff is also a major consideration to mitigate erosion and sedimentation on jobsite. We implement a Construction Activity Pollution Prevention plan on all major projects and document best practices and opportunities for continuous improvement.
Waste Management and Disposal
Our greatest influence on waste management lies beyond the office and on the construction sites of the projects that we manage. This is addressed in design and planning through modular and pre-fabricated systems, and then within construction through site segregation of waste, on-site reuse, vendor take-back programs and other landfill diversion strategies. IPS acknowledges the varying levels of waste infrastructure from region to region, and focuses site efforts on what will have the greatest impact depending on downstream opportunities and end users.
Identification of haulers and sorting/ processing facilities will assure viable and transparent markets to avoid landfills and create a holistic perspective across the greater circular economy.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHT
In 2023, IPS collaborated with a pharmaceutical client to transition from a commingled project waste system, which provided limited information about the final waste destination, to an on-site separation system. The separated waste is now sent to a facility that offers clear and transparent documentation.
By making that switch, it is estimated that IPS and our trade partners successfully diverted 140 tons of waste from landfills.
140 TONS DIVERTED
PROJECT SUSTAINABILITY
Materials
IPS’ influence on sustainable material attributes begins with design, and ultimately manifests in procurement and sourcing of available products in construction.
The greatest challenge with procurement is the evolving landscape of available materials region to region. Over the past several years, IPS has increased focus on the material supply chain by engaging vendors, using lessons learned from actual projects and building a database of specialized products used in the life science sector. IPS places increased focus on high impact materials like steel and concrete and also materials common to the life science sector like clean rooms and resinous flooring.
In 2023, IPS accelerated the use of internal Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) to understand the embodied carbon footprint of projects. IPS is using One Click LCA
The Avetta platform allows us to evaluate suppliers who are leaders in ESG. We have worked with over 300 suppliers, 63% percent of which are beyond the early stages in implementing ESG best practices as defined by the platform in these three categories.
“In the context of environmental preservation, our behavior often mirrors our core beliefs and priorities. When we fail to prioritize safeguarding our environment, it becomes difficult to persuade others to follow suit. Our enduring collaboration with Avetta has enabled us to identify and work alongside suppliers and contractors who align with our values.”
Kevin Batche — Vice President, Procurement
Sustainable Procurement
IPS is committed to incorporating sustainability into all facets of our business including our supply chain, making sustainable procurement practices a priority.
In 2023, IPS implemented the Avetta One ESG platform to monitor our supply chain. Each supplier is assigned a risk level and is required to complete GHG and sustainability assessments accordingly.
All supplier contracts include clauses on environmental, labor and human rights requirements. In addition, suppliers are required to comply with our supplier CSR code of conduct.
ANNUAL EARTH DAY EVENT
IPS nurtures a culture of knowledge, sharing, and community engagement across our teams. We are committed to the communities we serve and developing our teams to support sustainability initiatives within our organization and beyond.
To celebrate Earth Day, IPS held a cleanup day across our offices in the US driven by the IPS AID initiative. Over 50 employees gathered at Elmwood Park in the heart of Norristown, Pennsylvania to clean up litter, trim overgrown brush, weed a memorial area, and spread out new mulch at the base of the trees. In addition, some volunteers assisted the borough by posting large anti-litter signs on trash bins on one of the major roads to help combat illegal dumping. IPS’ volunteer efforts made a significant improvement to this park. The Emeryville office met at Crown Beach in Alameda, California to clean up collect trash along the beach and surrounding park.
TRAINING
IPS partnered with Green Building Education Services (GBES) to provide LEED and WELL education services for our employees to pursue accreditation providing career development opportunities and skills training in sustainability standards.
program educates
professionals on fundamental sustainability and environmental construction management strategies for high-performance buildings.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY
We are deeply engaged with leading industry organizations, leveraging our expertise to drive meaningful change and create environmental standards through education and collaboration.
Our participation in these collaborative efforts is driven by a dual mission: to educate and to innovate. We believe that sharing knowledge and best practices is essential to elevating the entire industry. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborative initiatives, we are dedicated to disseminating valuable insights and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
Simultaneously, we are pursuing solutions to some of the industry’s most pressing environmental challenges. By working closely with other industry leaders, we amplify our impact and accelerate the adoption of groundbreaking solutions. We understand that collaboration is the cornerstone of a sustainable future. By engaging with a diverse network of partners, from regulatory bodies to academic institutions, we ensure that our efforts are comprehensive and forward-thinking.
2023 ENGAGEMENTS
Building Green Sustainable Construction Leaders (SCL)
IPS is a member of the SCL peer network whose goal is to collaborate on efforts to combat climate change and create healthy environments in the construction industry. We are a signatory of the Contractor’s Commitment, complying with the “good” tier and participate on the steering committee.
Industry Speaking Engements
We consistently present at events within in our industry to share knowledge. Geoff Brock, Director of Sustainability presented at the ISPE Vendor Night in March 2023 held at Oracle Park, the San Francisco Giants baseball stadium. His presentation emphasized the importance of setting specific goals to validate success with integrity and how to turn top-down goals into measurable outcomes.
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
IPS holds a USGBC Gold membership and regularly attends the USGBC Greenbuild conference to learn and share about cutting-edge Sustainability Practices.
At this year’s 2023 Green Build Conference in Washington D.C., Geoff Brock, Director of Sustainability became a LEED Fellow.
Internal Education
Members of the sustainability team regularly host LEED training sessions at IPS. Attendees learn the basics of the LEED rating system, how green building rating systems play a part in our projects and education on common misconceptions.
SOCIAL
At IPS, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Our core values center around equity, respect, and empowerment for all individuals, regardless of their background. We strive to ensure that every member of our organization feels valued and respected.
Championing diversity and inclusion initiatives is essential to creating an environment where every employee can thrive and contribute their best work both personally and professionally. We are dedicated to providing equal and equitable opportunities for all and have implemented a range of policies, practices, and initiatives to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across our global workforce. We continuously monitor our hiring, pay, and promotion decisions to ensure we uphold these commitments.
Our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) serve as vital resources for fostering dialogue, understanding, and allyship across all levels of the organization, contributing to a more cohesive and empathetic workplace culture. Through their events, activities, and educational initiatives, ERGs help create a vibrant and engaged workplace community where all employees feel empowered to contribute their best work.
IPS also invests in various local groups and schools to reflect the diversity of our workforce and meet our community’s needs. Many of these partnerships have been longstanding, while others are newer, ensuring a broad reach in our outreach efforts. Within this report, we outline our approach to community engagement, philanthropic initiatives, and volunteer programs, demonstrating our belief that we are stronger together, especially when we extend our efforts beyond the walls of IPS.
Becky Savikas — Chief People Officer
DIVERSITY EQUITY & INCLUSION
We understand that DEI is critical to our success because it enhances innovation, creativity, and problem-solving by bringing together varied perspectives and experiences.
Our mission is to be both a catalyst for change and to promote DEI principles across IPS by fostering a global understanding and building a dynamic platform that seeks to embed the value of DEI into our culture. The aim is to enable business success, drive industry trends,
and increase community impact through our DEI goals and programming.
At IPS, we are committed to the value of diversity, equity and inclusion, for all individuals to thrive and to create lasting impact and overcome obstacles. Our DEI strategy has three focus areas:
• Education and culture building
• DEI integration in talent life cycle
• Governance and metrics
WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE WE’RE GOING
As we look to the future our goal is to continue to embed our DEI processes globally.
Our DEI goals for 2023 included creating a shared understanding of DEI principles, benefits, opportunities, and common technologies across our global footprint. Since the inception of our DEI council we have made great achievements in this space as individuals, as a council, and as One IPS.
EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUPS
ERGs are an integral part of our DEI strategy. They are actively creating a more inclusive, innovative, and successful future. IPS employees have taken a leading role in promoting equality and inclusiveness across our global footprint. Multiple ERGs have been established to address opportunities for improved DEI.
ERGs have become critical to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion at IPS. These groups, formed around shared characteristics or life experiences, serve as crucial pillars in supporting the diverse needs of employees and enriching the organizational culture.
At their core, ERGs provide a safe and supportive space for employees to connect, share experiences, and offer mutual support. This sense of community is integral in helping individuals feel understood and valued, enhancing their sense of belonging within the organization.
LATINX NETWORK DE IPS (LNI)
The LNI mission is to create a supportive environment for the Latinx community and contribute to the IPS motto “Knowledge, Skill & Passion.“ We develop a network that promotes cultural diversity, social engagement, and professional development.
IPS BLACK EMPLOYEES UNITED FOR PROGRESS (IBEUP)
The mission of IBEUP is to bring together a diverse community of STEM professionals by attracting and retaining the best talent, promoting leadership and development at all ranks, building an enduring internal support system for employees, and encouraging diversity and inclusion among employees at all levels within the company.
THE WOMEN’S INITIATIVE OF IPS (WIIPS)
The mission of WIIPS is to increase engagement and the advancement of women at IPS to advance the success of the company, and to achieve their own career potential. As well as, to provide a forum for mentorship, sponsorship, professional development, and networking internally and externally.
PRIDE +
The mission of Pride+ at IPS is to create a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive. The program fosters advocacy and ally ship, creates opportunities for employees of all gender identities and sexual orientations, and promotes transparency, accountability, and respect.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
IPS AID
IPS AID is our employee-led service committee. We empower our employees to actively engage with our communities and give them the resources to make a meaningful impact. Whether through hands-on volunteering, leadership on boards and committees, or introducing our profession to underrepresented groups, our volunteers are backed by a culture that champions these values.
We are proud of our community partnerships, which continue to evolve based on the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve globally.
We partner with groups that are uniquely dedicated to ensuring that resources are efficiently allocated to the communities that need them. IPS has identified how we can build on these relationships with our long-term partners to continue providing meaningful support.
Our community engagement is another component of our DEI strategy that aims to allocate resources to make a positive difference. The non-profit organizations listed are causes that IPS has consistently supported for years including engagements in 2023.
Cradles to Crayons
Cradles to Crayons is the largest non-profit in the United States focused on ending children’s clothing insecurity by providing millions of packages of essentials. As part of our annual MLK Day of Service, employees volunteer to deliver packs for children in need. In 2023, dozens of packs of clothing were delivered by IPS employees.
“The Give Back with an Outfit Pack initiative gives donors the opportunity to provide a child with a clothing pack to help sustain them during the cold winter months. IPS has completed over 200 outfit packs which has helped us provide over 200 kids with well fitting, seasonally appropriate clothing. C2C is incredibly grateful for IPS’ support and cannot wait to see all the ways they will continue to engage with us in the future.”
Molly Walsh — Manager of Community Engagement
COMMUNITY PARNTERSHIPS
IPS collaborates with dozens of organizations in our communities to make a difference. These are just a few of our long-term partnerships.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Our mission is to foster a culture of holistic wellness where physical, mental, and emotional health are supported in the office, on the construction site, and at home.
Safety is a mindset. Safe projects require commitment at all levels of the organization and promote safe behavior, positive attitudes, sound judgment, and good decisions. Our team places safety above all other considerations in executing our work. We strive at all times to create a 100% safe work environment, on-site and in the office, with zero incidents and zero injuries.
To support our culture of health and safety, we have developed the Mission Zero Safety Program. By developing expectations and standards, providing training and ensuring continual education and improvement in construction jobsite and workplace/office safety and health, we promote safety awareness and demonstrate safe behavior.
Health and Safety Management System
Leadership, worker participation, hazard identification and assessment, hazard prevention and control, education and training, and program evaluation and improvement are important pillars of our health and safety management program.
IPS maintains a global EHS Management and Organization Standard document that defines the tools we use to ensure the quality of our system. Alongside this document, IPS also maintains an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) which is applicable for all of the Americas.
Hazard Identification, Risk Assesment and Incident Investigation
Hazard Recognition and Risk Assessment
IPS utilizes the following tools on our project sites for hazard recognition and risk assessment:
• Job safety analysis
• Daily safety plan and morning huddles
• Safety stand downs
• Safe observation reporting
• Stop work authority
• Safety inspections
Incident Reporting
Our standard operating procedure for incident reporting includes consistent training for our employees to utilize the required forms, take immediate action, and submit reports within 24 hours. Review of all incidents occurs weekly at the safety department team meeting and monthly at safety committee meetings.
MILLION
The organization tracks global safety data, including hours worked and our recordable rate of incident, for employees and trade partners in alignment with OSHA standards. In 2023, our employees worked over 5 million hours. 5.7
HOURS
WORKED
IPS has had zero fatalities or high-consequence injuries in the last three years. 0
GOVERNANCE
IPS has a long-standing commitment to ethical conduct and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations that govern our business. The standards that are set forth in our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics apply to everyone from senior executives to entry-level employees.
We are responsible for conducting ourselves with uncompromising integrity. Our success as a company is directly dependent on our continued commitment to act in an ethical and legally compliant manner.
IPS is proud of its employees and their daily commitment to ethical behavior, honesty and adherence to all the laws that govern our business relationships as we fulfill our mission of enabling our clients to create and manufacture life-impacting products around the world.
99% of IPS employees that were assigned security and privacy awareness training completed the course in the Americas and Europe. IPS will continue to expand this training globally in 2024.
Reporting Hotline
Employees are expected to promptly report any suspected ethical or legal violations in good faith. They are encouraged to contact their supervisors, human resources, corporate compliance, or the legal department.
Additionally, IPS provides a global hotline, available 24/7, for phone and web-based reporting. This service allows reporters to remain anonymous if they choose. We adhere to consistent protocols for addressing all reported potential violations of the code.
Non-Retaliation Policy
No employee will face retaliation for making a good faith report of illegal or unethical violations or for participating in an investigation.
IPS strictly prohibits any form of retaliation. This policy is not only to protect those fulfilling their duties but also to ensure that all employees feel safe reporting concerns without fear of reprisal. Retaliation undermines our commitment to ethical conduct and can discourage others from coming forward with important information.
Ethics and Compliance Training
Our compliance program is continuously seeking ways to engage and communicate with employees while measuring its effectiveness. We believe that engaging and effective training is crucial for establishing a solid foundation for a successful program.
It is essential that everyone understands their role and responsibility in upholding our values.
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for our Business Partners
The commitment to high ethical standards and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations extends to all the business partners with whom we do business including any supplier, service provider, vendor, customer, contractor or consultant.
ESG SUBCOMMITTEE
The ESG subcommittee was formed by an internal group of stakeholders who represent nearly every aspect of our operations. They have provided feedback at each step of this report, aligning ambitious goals with the ability to execute.
This committee will continue to be an integral part of setting ESG targets.
01. Dave Goswami
Chairmain and CEO of IPS Enterprise
Dave’s primary focus is to develop strategic directions for short and long-term sustainable growth of various business units under IPS Enterprise, including IPS Life Sciences Business, Linesight, and new businesses like Advance Technology.
02. Jim Stephanou CEO
As CEO of IPS, Jim is focused on pushing the boundaries of innovation in the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, specifically as it relates to the life sciences market.
03. Becky Savikas
Chief People Officer
As Chief People Officer and member of the IPS Executive Committee, she has direct oversight of all aspects of the HR function globally. Becky is responsible for further evolving the full HR strategy and operations worldwide, from talent management, DEI culture and employee engagement, compensation, and benefits.
04. Tom Piombino
Managing Director, Americas
In addition to developing and leading innovative strategies on our projects, Tom builds and develops relationships with our clients in the Americas to better understand how we can create positive and successful ESG outcomes.
05.Peter Higgins Managing Director, EMEA
Peter’s leadership is pivotal to our operations in EMEA, overseeing the delivery of comprehensive and sustainable solutions across the full project life cycle to a diverse client base.
06. Steve Huntzinger Director, Environmental Health and Safety
Steve is responsible for developing and overseeing our Mission Zero Safety Program which ensures a a safe and healthful environment through communication, training, and educational opportunities for all IPS employees and partners.
07. Ana Collins Vice President, Marketing & Communications
As VP of Marketing and Communications, Ana and her team communicate IPS’ ESG initiatives and achievements to all stakeholders to promote our values, reinforce our brand reputation, foster trust, and drive engagement with our employees and clients.
Marne leads the ESG subcommittee and coordinates with executive leadership to align our environmental and social initiatives with our sustainability goals while increasing the visibility of the corporate compliance program.
09. Christine Shero Vice President, Finance
Christine oversees IPS’ financial operations and strategies for the company including forecasting, financial analysis and planning.
10. Geoff Brock Director of Sustainability
As Director of Sustainability, Geoff leads the company’s sustainability efforts. He is responsible for supporting clients within their respective paths to net-zero by leveraging facility and project-level strategies across design, construction, commissioning and operations.
11. Margaret McDevitt Sustainability Manager
As a Sustainability Program Manager, Margaret implements and manages IPS’ sustainability initiatives, ensuring alignment and growth of the company’s environmental strategy.
12. Kevin Batche Vice President, Procurement
Kevin promotes ethical and compliance-based best practices and policies along with developing training programs to ensure compliance with regulatory and cGMP requirements as well as a variety of other procurement program requirements.
WHAT’S NEXT?
ESG strategy implementation is crucial to our business and the future. We are committed to minimizing the impact of both our own and our customers’ operations so that future generations can thrive.
GLOBALIZATION
As IPS continues to grow, a key component of our business and ESG strategy is to further globalize our DEI, sustainability, and training programs to create uniformity across our footprint.
PERFORMANCE TRACKING
With this defined framework, IPS will begin tracking and releasing data related to our benchmarks and goals in alignment with our selected UN SDGs, the GRI Standard, and carbon footprint reduction.
SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
In the years ahead, we will develop a comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategy to ensure all relevant parties, including employees, clients, suppliers, and communities are actively involved and informed about IPS’ initiatives and progress.
Looking forward, we aim to implement cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and reduce overall environmental impact on our projects and within our operations.
2023 GLOBAL REPORTING INITIATIVE (GRI) CONTENT INDEX
IPS has reported the information cited in this GRI content index for the period of January 1st 2023 and December 31st 2023 with reference to the GRI Standards.
SDG REFERENCED GRI STANDARD REFERENCED
Client project sustainability Pages 16-21 Renewable energy target Page 12 SBTi target Page 12 Training and education Pages 23, 34, 38
Diversity and equal opportunity Pages 4, 5, 24, 25, and 26
GRI 2-1 Organizational details Pages 3 and 6
GRI 2-2 Entities included in the organization’s sustainability reporting Pages 3 and 14
GRI 2-3 Reporting period, frequency, and contact point Page 3
GRI 2-5 External assurance Page 3
GRI 2-6 Activities, value chain and other business relationships Pages 6 and 21
GRI 2-9 Governance Structure and Composition Pages 36 and 37
GRI 2-22 Statement on Sustainable Development Strategy Page 11
GRI 2-25 Processes to remediate negative impacts Page 35
GRI 2-26 Mechanisms for seeking advice and raising concerns Page 35
GRI 205 Anti-corruption Page 35
GRI 303-1 Interactions with water as a shared resource Page 18
GRI 305 Emissions Page 14
GRI 403-1 Occupational Health and Safety Management System Page 33
