Rotterdam, November 26, 2024 – HES International is proud to announce significant progress in its sustainability initiatives, achieving a GRESB* score of 86 in 2024. This improvement marks an upward trajectory for the company, enhancing its score from 82 in both 2022 and 2023 to 86 this year.
In this latest assessment, HES ranks #4 out of 7 in its peer benchmark, surpassing industry averages in key areas such as leadership, awards and certifications, energy efficiency, employee engagement, waste management, biodiversity, and stakeholder management. This performance reflects HES’s commitment to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its operations.
Recently, HES deployed a robust sustainability strategy, defining core values and specific sustainability targets. Key initiatives launched include an updated Code of Conduct, the "If it Does Not Look Right, Act Right" awareness campaign, and the implementation of a whistleblower mechanism. Additionally, a due diligence procedure for third-party contracts has been developed, along with significant advancements in energy and climate management.
"Achieving an 86 GRESB score reflects the hard work and dedication of our team at HES International," said Mark van Lieshout, interim CEO of HES International. "This improvement not only demonstrates our commitment to sustainability but also sets the stage for further advancements in our ESG initiatives. We are excited to continue this journey and collaborate with our stakeholders to create a more sustainable future."
While HES celebrates these achievements, the organization recognizes the need for continuous improvement. The company is focused on enhancing external reporting to meet the requirements of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and has renewed its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). As part of its Business Plan for 2030, HES aims to even further embed sustainability across its product portfolio. The forthcoming Sustainability Roadmap for 2030 will outline specific targets under the "Future Proof Business" chapter of its Sustainability Strategy.
For further information, please contact: Firas Ezzeddine (f.ezzeddine@hesinternational.eu)
ABOUT HES INTERNATIONAL
HES International is one of Europe's largest independent bulk handling companies for liquid, dry, and breakbulk products. Our companies hold a unique independent position in the supply chain of bulk goods for a wide range of products providing first class access to Europe's deep draft terminals and excellent hinterland connectivity by barge, rail and truck. With 14 terminals in 5 countries at strategic located ports in Europe we are an important switch in the continuous delivery of essential building blocks for our everyday life needed to develop, sustain and improve the world around us. Our professional staff ensure that bulk commodities are safely stored, handled and processed 24/7 for customers from all corners of the globe. We have a strong ambition to further broaden our product portfolio and also want to respond optimally to the opportunities that the energy transition offers us.
HES International is headquartered in Rotterdam and has already been carefully handling bulk raw materials since 1908. Macquarie Asset Management, via Macquarie European Infrastructure Fund 5, and West Street Infrastructure Partners III, managed by the Goldman Sachs Asset Management Infrastructure business, each indirectly control 50% of the shares of HES International B.V. For more information, please visit www.hesinternational.eu.
* GRESB is a leading ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) benchmarking and reporting framework used to assess the sustainability performance of real estate and infrastructure assets globally