CREATING A POSITIVE IMPACT
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
At foster+freeman, our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles underscores our dedication to sustainable and responsible business practices. We recognize the importance of addressing key considerations within each of these pillars to create a positive impact on our stakeholders and the broader community.
Environmental Responsibility
We acknowledge the critical role businesses play in addressing environmental challenges. Our focus areas include:
Solar panels installed on the roof of our Evesham headquarters.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
We actively manage both direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions (type 1 and type 2), constantly striving to reduce our carbon footprint.
Waste Management
Our commitment extends to responsible waste management, emphasizing the reduction of waste and compliance with environmental regulations. In 2021 we were recognised by Printwaste for achieving zero waste to landfill at our UK headquarters.
Renewable Energy
We prioritize the use of renewable energy sources to contribute to a sustainable and low-carbon future.
Carbon Reduction
Through our Carbon Reduction Policy and Plan, we have set ambitious targets to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. Our efforts include the installation of solar panels and continuous monitoring of energy, waste, and chemical usage.
Social Responsibility
As a socially responsible company, we actively engage in initiatives that promote ethical and socially conscious practices. Our social responsibility commitments include:
Diversity & Inclusion
We champion diversity and inclusion, both within our organisation and in the broader community, fostering an environment that values differences.
Ethical Supply Chain
Our terms and conditions of procurement explicitly require our suppliers to adhere to the Modern Slavery Act 2015 where applicable, and not to engage in, promote or otherwise support child labour, human trafficking or any other means of exploitation.
LGBTQ+ Rights
We support LGBTQ+ rights and encourage all forms of diversity, evident in the creation of a Diversity working group and ongoing efforts to provide a supportive workplace.
Employee Well-being
Our commitment to fair wages, mental health, first aid training, and the creation of an online staff portal (IRISHR) ensures the well-being of our employees. We also offer private medical insurance to all employees, including access to a range of mental health support services.
Governance Standards
Our ESG governance standards guide our decision-making processes and corporate practices. We are dedicated to:
Accounting Transparency
We use accurate and transparent accounting methods to provide stakeholders with a clear understanding of our financial performance. Our accounts are subjected to an annual audit by an internationally recognised, independent firm of accountants.
Integrity and Diversity in Leadership
Leadership selections prioritize integrity and diversity, ensuring a well-rounded and inclusive perspective.
Board of Directors
Our board is led by an experienced independent Chairman who is responsible for setting the board agenda and ensuring that it is an effective working group at the head of the company. The roles of Chairman and CEO are recognised as distinct and separate and are held by different people to ensure that no individual has unfettered powers of decision. The Chairman ensures that the board meets regularly and is provided with sufficient and timely information to enable its members to discharge their duties effectively.
Corporate Responsibility
Our commitment to ethical business practices throughout our supply chain is evidenced by our zero-tolerance policies on Anti-Bribery and Corruption and Anti-Tax Evasion. We do not make political contributions in any form and we are committed to transparent and responsible business practices at every level of the business.
Our Commitment
At foster+freeman, we view ESG not only as a set of standards but as a commitment to making a positive and lasting impact on the world. We continually strive to improve our practices, recognizing that responsible business is key to a sustainable future.
foster+freeman staff at our UK production facility.