Bermudian-based Arch Capital Group Ltd is getting rid of single-use plastic bottles from it offices around the world as it steps up its environmental stewardship.

The goal is one of many featured in the re/insurer’s first sustainability report.

Introducing the report, Marc Grandisson, president and chief executive officer of Arch, said: “Insurance supports the innovations that allow the global economy to prosper. At Arch, we aim to inspire our clients, employees, investors and communities to achieve their greatest potential. Today more than ever, amid the unprecedented realities of the Covid-19 pandemic, this purpose serves as a guide for our actions as a responsible corporate citizen.”

He said that, whether through corporate donations, matching gifts or the volunteerism of approximately 4,300 employees around the world, Arch is “committed to making a measurable positive social and environmental impact”.

As part of its drive to make a difference, Arch’s environmental stewardship committee was formed in September. It calls itself the “Blue Goes Green” sustainability committee — playing on Arch’s signature colour blue.

Its first initiative is to eliminate single-use plastic water bottles in Arch’s offices. The company estimated that in 2018 it spent approximately $113,000 on single-use plastic water bottles, which equates to about 375,000 bottles.

“Recognising this unnecessary waste and the harm the plastic causes our oceans and wildlife, the committee put a plan into action to replace the plastic water bottles with draft water dispensers in office pantries. The water dispensers eliminate the need for plastic water bottle deliveries, reducing the carbon emissions for the delivery vehicles. Branded sustainable water bottles are being distributed to our employees to facilitate the transition,” the company said.

In addition, the committee is focusing on other operational efficiencies by introducing more sustainable pantry practices and supplies, improving recycling efforts, reducing paper usage, reducing travel and encouraging video conferencing where appropriate.

It also works with Arch’s head of global real estate and the facilities team to identify ways to operate more responsibly and reduce environmental impact. The facilities team has prioritised looking for new office space in Leed-certified and Energy Star buildings when considering new leaseholds. Globally, 22 per cent of Arch’s offices are certified Leed buildings. Leed is the green building certification programme that recognises best-in-class building strategies and practices.

Arch’s team is also designing energy efficient office plans with energy efficient equipment and LED lighting and working with sustainable suppliers for greener buildout materials.