The organization
Stella-Jones is a North American manufacturer of products that support infrastructure in Canada and the United States. The Montreal-based company produces wood railway ties and timbers, wood and steel utility poles, and steel lattice towers. It also manufactures lumber products for the residential market.
The challenge
As investors and clients want more transparency related to sustainability and environmental responsibility, Stella-Jones wanted to be a market leader in demonstrating its commitment to sustainability. As part of that direction, Stella-Jones took steps to substantiate its ESG claims—particularly those related to Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions, waste management, and the sustainable sourcing of wood.
Ensuring the data was accurate across dozens of production and treatment facilities was complex due to variations in local operations and environmental reporting systems.
The solution
We provided a limited assurance engagement in accordance with recognized assurance standards (e.g., ISAE 3000/CSAE 3410), focusing on validating the accuracy and completeness of key environmental metrics (specifically Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions) within Stella-Jones’s sustainability reporting framework.
The outcome and benefits
As a result of our work, Stella-Jones was able to provide ESG disclosures that were credible, demonstrate accountability to its institutional investors and customers, and strengthen internal controls over data collection and reporting.
For more information, contact
John Asher, Partner, Risk Advisory Services
Avery Coates, Manager, Risk Advisory Services