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In 2023, we gave a lot of thought not only to what work we do, but also to how we do it. We want to be sure that we take every opportunity to add value. We are also conscious of our duty to avoid unintentional harm. To develop our sustainability strategy, we systematically analysed our impacts, both positive and negative, on people and the planet.
We undertook a thorough process to identify the environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues that are most relevant for us. We interviewed internal and external stakeholders and combined the findings with the results of a survey. In December, the Foundation Board approved a list of the nine most significant issues, which we call our material topics. To plan our response to each topic, we grouped them using the idea of a handprint and a footprint.
For each material topic, we have set specific targets at institutional or project level or both. These targets challenge us to do more and to do it better.
To give just one example, we will place greater emphasis on the qualitative aspects of the jobs we help create. In practical terms, this means that our projects will increasingly promote green jobs and improved working conditions.
With the need to achieve our targets in mind, implementation of the strategy has already started. We commit to reporting annually on our progress with reference to the GRI standards and will share the first results in next year’s Annual Report.
Each of the nine material topics belongs to one of three sustainability criteria. We address these themes at all levels of the organization. In particular, we carefully consider all aspects of the sustainability criteria when designing and managing projects. This ensures that our projects have long-lasting results that benefit as many people as possible.
We promote gender equality, striving for the social inclusion of all people, with a particular focus on youth and marginalised groups. We are committed to a human rights approach that embraces empowerment, equality, non-discrimination, and accountability.
We use the planet’s resources carefully, always considering the environment. We are committed to achieving net zero in our decisions and actively explore ways to reduce our organisation’s footprint. We enhance the resilience of individuals and communities to deal with climate change, developing and promoting solutions for the efficient and sustainable use of resources.
We practice and promote the principles of good governance. We commit to decision-making that follows the rule of law, is participatory and consensus-oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive. And we are committed to high standards in combatting corruption.