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Commitment to sustainability and Environmental, Social and Governance

Glasgow Waters is a key part of Peel Waters—a pioneering portfolio of waterfront regeneration projects across the UK, from Glasgow in the north to Chatham in the south, with a strong presence across the North West of England including Manchester and the Mersey.

Each Peel Waters destination is purposefully designed to unlock the potential of underused waterside areas, blending heritage with innovation to create vibrant, sustainable and well-connected communities where people can live, work, socialise and thrive.

Glasgow Waters, as one of Peel Water’s regeneration sites, is proud to be part of the Peel Group, a business with a rich legacy in placemaking. Peel Waters has transitioned into a fully independent entity, and its commitment to sustainability and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance at both project and organisational levels remains steadfast.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The 17 SDGs, otherwise known as the Global Goals, were launched in 2015 and were designed to create a better world by 2030.

Glasgow Waters as part of Peel Waters’ Sustainability Plan align with five of the United Nations Sustinable Development Goals, focusing efforts where it can make the greatest impact.

SDG 8 Decent Work & Economic Growth

SDG8 focuses on the promotion of sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth full and productive employment and decent work for all.

Glasgow Waters creates inclusive, productive employment and training opportunities through investment and partnerships. This is exemplified at Yorkhill Quay, where a design-led residential development aims to support the local economy and improve wellbeing.

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities & Communties

SDG 11 delves into how everyone can make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

Glasgow Waters is enhancing Glasgow’s riverfront through sustainable and inclusive urban design. The regeneration of Yorkhill Quay, currently a disconnected and derelict site, will reconnect major attractions like the Riverside Museum and Clydeside Distillery. Plans include over 1,100 new homes, a 200-bedroom hotel, leisure space, 1,300+ cycle storage spaces, EV charging points and car clubs—all contributing to a vibrant, accessible waterfront.

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

SDG 12 aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production of materials.

Glasgow Waters is embedding sustainability across the masterplan—from energy-efficient buildings and sustainable procurement to the responsible management of public spaces. Peel Waters is committed to supporting the circular economy while reducing waste and improving operational efficiency.

District Heat Network: Backed by a £5.1m grant, Glasgow Waters is partnering with Peel NRE in leading plans for a low-carbon heat network that will serve 1,100 homes, offices, leisure venues and the future Therme Scotland resort. It’s expected to cut nearly 69,000 tonnes of carbon—equivalent to planting over 78,000 trees.

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SDG 13 Climate Action

 SDG 13 focuses on taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

Acknowledging climate challenges, Glasgow Waters is focused on creating resilient, low-carbon developments. Adaptation features at Yorkhill Quay include flood-resistant design and landscaping, plus nature-based cooling solutions and biodiversity-friendly public realm improvements.

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SDG 15 Life on Land

SDG15 concentrates on how protecting, restoring and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems can combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation and promote biodiversity net gain.

Glasgow Waters is enhancing natural ecosystems across its sites. Regeneration of former docklands is creating new habitats, public parks and rooftop gardens. Community projects include wildflower planting, tree diversity and initiatives to support pollinators.

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Community engagement

Glasgow Waters places community at the heart of regeneration. Initiatives such as the Clydeside Community Garden and The Great Wall of Glasgow mural have brought people together through art, green spaces and events like the Wee Harbour Fest. Local groups continue to shape and maintain these projects, while regular newsletters keep communities informed and involved.

Looking ahead, pop-up venues like Northbank at Broomielaw signal the early stages of a new riverside hospitality offering—reaffirming Glasgow Waters as a destination shaped by and for its people.