United Group, the leading provider of telecommunications and media services in Southeast Europe, achieved significant success in its sustainability efforts in 2023. The company published its 2023 Sustainability Report, which highlights significant achievements in the areas of environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG). The report demonstrates United Group's commitment to sustainable development and details its achievements in promoting a positive impact on the environment and society.
“The progress we have made in 2023 underscores United Group's commitment to building a sustainable future. Our successes in reducing emissions, using renewable energy and gender equality show that sustainability is at the heart of our strategy. We are proud of what we have achieved and remain committed to delivering long-term benefits for all our stakeholders," commented Miriam Di Traglia, United Group's Executive Director Compliance, Risk and Resilience.
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A key focus of United Group's drive for sustainability is the ambitious emission reduction targets endorsed by the Science Based Targets (SBTi) initiative. As part of its commitment to combating climate change, United Group is targeting net zero emissions by 2040. Significant progress was made in 2023, with the company achieving a 46% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to 2020
In 2023, United Group reaffirmed its commitment to renewable energy by sourcing 40% of its total electricity consumption from renewable sources, further strengthening its role in promoting sustainable business practices across the industry. In addition to reducing emissions, United Group is committed to achieving zero operational waste to landfill by 2030. This goal is aligned with a focus on circular economy principles, reuse and recycling initiatives, and the elimination of e-waste. The company is already applying the principles of the circular economy through the introduction of Half SIM and eSIM, the customer e-waste and old phone return programs. Notably, in 2023, around 40% of the company's installed customer premises equipment (CPE) consists of refurbished devices.
United Group also completed its first EU Taxonomy assessment this year, assessing its operations against the EU's Sustainable Finance Framework, which promotes sustainable transition and socially responsible investment.
In terms of social initiatives, in 2023 United Group made significant progress in the area of gender equality and diversity. 52% of the company's leadership positions are held by women, reflecting the company's commitment to providing equal opportunities for women in the workplace. In addition, United Group signed the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), a global initiative promoting corporate measures to achieve gender equality. The group also completed its first assessment of the average gender pay gap, highlighting its support for women throughout their careers.
To improve the skills of its leadership team to lead sustainability initiatives, in 2023 United Group introduced the ESG training program "Keep the Future". This program provides managers with the skills and knowledge needed to direct an organization's activities to achieve its long-term sustainability goals.
The full text of the 2023 Sustainability Report is available HERE