Ooredoo Group Unveils Inaugural GRI-2023 ESG Report

Doha: The Ooredoo Group released its inaugural GRI-2023 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) impact report. The Group said in a statement on Monday that the report, developed in reference to the latest GRI Universal Standards for reporting and the telecoms-specific SASB standards, marks the companys fourth year of ESG disclosures. It added that this first standalone ESG report stands out as the most comprehensive and transparent to date and forms part of a significant leap in Ooredoo Group's sustainability journey. The statement pointed out that under the leadership of the Group Human Resources and Sustainability division, Ooredoo is in the final stage of establishing a dedicated ESG committee, ensuring a structured approach to overseeing and guiding sustainability initiatives and performance across the Group. These efforts contribute to both Ooredoos regulatory and investor needs, integrating sustainability into the very fabric of the company. It continued by saying that with a detailed materiality analysis and an expanded level of disclosures, this report highlights Ooredoos commitment to sustainable development across its operational footprint in Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Palestine, Algeria, Tunisia and Maldives. Ooredoo Group Chief Human Resources and Sustainability Officer Fatima Sultan Al Kuwari said, "As a community-focused company, Ooredoo is guided by a vision of using its services to enrich peoples digital lives and stimulate human growth. We believe in the power of technology as an enabler to bring about social and economic progress. This belief is at the core of our ESG efforts, and this inaugural GRI- ESG report is a reflection of our values and our dedication to a sustainable future." Al Kuwari added, "This report is not just about looking back at what we have achieved; its about setting the stage for what we will accomplish in the future. By setting clear targets and objectives across social and environmental indicators, we are laying the groundwork for continuous improvement and innovat ion in sustainability." For Ooredoo, sustainability is a key component of its digital infrastructure strategy. By focusing on energy efficiencies, the company anticipates significant cost savings. This strategic focus is evident in Ooredoo's responsible initiatives to optimise network energy usage and transition to energy-efficient technologies. In 2023, the total Group direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions decreased by 4.5 percent compared to 2022. Additionally, in recent years, Ooredoo has launched several renewable energy projects across its operations, exploring the potential to diversify its energy mix. These initiatives include installing solar panels at key facilities and investing in green energy solutions to power its advanced network infrastructure. Ooredoo's commitment to harnessing human potential without causing harm is reflected in its ethical approach to business, with the company's dedication to transparency and accountability demonstrated by enhanced reporting practices. The statement added that in 2023, Ooredoo saw a 1.5 percent increase in female representation across its workforce, bringing the total to 30 percent. The company continues to show its commitment to sustainability and inclusion, unlocking new growth opportunities for both its people and the communities it serves. In 2023, the Group spent approximately USD 35 million on community initiatives. By investing in sustainable technologies, Ooredoo seeks to innovate and expand its offerings, attracting environmentally conscious customers and partners. The company has earned ISO 20000-1 certification for IT service management systems and ISO 27001 certification for information security management systems, underscoring the strength and reliability of its systems. It continues that employees are at the heart of Ooredoo's sustainability initiatives. The company fosters a culture of awareness, engagement, and transparency, positioning itself as an equal opportunity employer. By prioritising sustainability, Ooredoo aims to rema in an inclusive employer, while attracting global and specialised talents aligned with its values and mission. This commitment is evidenced through recent reporting initiatives and developmental programmes for employees, such as dedicated training academies, leadership development programmes, and targeted training in critical thinking, change management, wellbeing, and AI. Ooredoo said that it continues to make strides in sustainability across the Group by upgrading reporting practices and enhancing the understanding of key material issues and their impacts. The company is also managing these impacts through a Group-wide strategic programme that provides structure and governance to its overall sustainability commitments and actions. Source: Qatar News Agency