In context of their Sustainability Strategy, HES International participated in 2020 for the first time in the GRESB Benchmark. While in 2020 HES scored 46 of maximum 100 points and performed slightly below the average of all infrastructure assets, the results of 2021 show a big leap forward. HES has succeeded in making a quick start with important steps on sustainability, resulting in a GRESB-score of 75 in her second year - a 38% improvement. The progress was not completely unexpected as during 2020 many new initiatives have been undertaken by the company.
In addition to the Sustainability Strategy definition, the formulation of core values and sustainability targets, several other related actions have been implemented. An uplift for the Code of Conduct is at hand, we have started an awareness campaign “If it does not look right, act right” and installed a whistleblower service. A Due Diligence procedure for third-party contracts have been established and in the area of energy and climate several steps have been taken. Nevertheless HES is aware that this is just the beginning of a longer journey towards sustainability and looks forward to continue this positive development together with everyone working for or with HES.
“Across the globe, organizations are demonstrating a deep commitment to ESG integration while making important strides towards a more sustainable future for us all,” said Sebastien Roussotte, CEO of GRESB. “ESG transparency and improved performance have never been more important, and it is inspiring to see such a high level of dedication from the industry, particularly when so much has been disrupted by the pandemic this last year.”
Each year, GRESB assesses and benchmarks the ESG performance of assets worldwide, providing clarity and insights to financial markets on complex sustainability topics. The GRESB Assessments are guided by what investors and the industry consider to be material issues in the sustainability performance of asset investments and are aligned with international reporting frameworks, goals and emerging regulations.
About HES International
Contributing to the world of tomorrow, that’s what we do at HES. With 18 terminals in 6 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 of 1,270 ensure that bulk commodities are safely stored, handled and processed 24/7 for customers from all corners of the globe.
We pursue sustainable growth of our Agri & Minerals and liquid product portfolio as well as an expansion of our processing activities through expansion of our existing sites, greenfield development and the acquisition of operating terminals. In addition we have a strong focus on adjacent business opportunities that arise from the energy transition such as hydrogen, refrigerated gases and chemical recycling.
We want to create long-term growth and value for all our stakeholders including employees, customers, shareholders and the communities and countries in which we operate. This is underpinned by our focus on safety and our core values of integrity, respect, accountability, openness and entrepreneurialism.
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 Merchant Banking Division of Goldman Sachs, each indirectly control 50% of the shares of HES International B.V.
More information www.hesinternational.eu or Esther Erkelens, Manager Communications e.erkelens@hesinternational.eu