Latest news with #corporateresponsibility


Zawya
15-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Du unveils Sustainability Report 2024, building a sustainable future through digital innovation
Dubai, UAE: du, the leading telecom and digital services provider, today announced the release of its Sustainability Report for 2024, marking significant achievements in environmental stewardship, digital inclusion, and social responsibility. Adel AlRais, Head of Corporate Communication & Protocol at du, said: "Aligning with the UAE government's objectives, our holistic approach to sustainability reflects our determination to lead by example in corporate responsibility, innovation, and digital transformation. With a clear vision and commitment from company leadership, we are not only advancing our operational excellence but actively contributing to a sustainable and inclusive future for all." du's 2024 Sustainability Report categorizes the company's significant strides under three major themes, reflecting a commitment to community, ethical operations, and accessible services: Make Our People and Communities Happier du notably achieved global recognition in the annual Culture & Employee Engagement survey conducted by Microsoft Viva Glint, where du ranks in the top 25% of technology sector performers globally and within the top 10% across all industries worldwide. additionally, du awarded 'Organization of the Year' for Youth Empowerment at the GCC GOV HR & Youth Awards 2024. A standout achievement under this pillar is the diversity within its workforce, with women constituting 54% of Emirati employees and active participation from over 2,000 employees and their families in various initiatives. du's FutureX Program is a key initiative launched to upskill Emirati graduates in digital and leadership capabilities, fostering innovation and grooming future leaders. Focused on increasing awareness around cyber safety, du has launched several campaigns to educate its community about the importance of online security and governance. In support of national causes and societal advancement, du sponsored AccessAbilities Expo, advocating for the inclusion of People of Determination, contributed AED 1 million to Al Jalila Foundation and raised AED 4.9 million for the UAE Mothers' Endowment Fund. Operate Ethically and Responsibly In alignment with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 vision, du successfully reduced its carbon footprint by introducing 169 solar-powered telecom sites and optimizing cooling systems across its operations, leading to a reduction of 8.6 KtCO₂ emissions. du made significant efforts in reducing paper waste through 100% digital invoicing and minimizing energy consumption using AI-driven technologies. Emphasizing on circular economy principles, du reported diverting 31% of its waste from landfills, while composting 20,685 kg of food waste, contributing to a more sustainable ecosystem. These operations are bolstered by achieving an ISO certification for sustainable procurement, reflecting their commitment to global best practices. By leveraging AI in Radio Access Network (RAN) optimization, du has significantly reduced its power consumption, showcasing a commitment to environmental sustainability through technological innovation. In recognition of its sustainability efforts, du was awarded the prestigious ESG Label by the Dubai Chamber, achieving a remarkable score of 91.48%. Further affirming its position as a leader in corporate learning and innovation, du received the Udemy Business MENA Excellence Award. Deliver the Benefits of Our Services to All The launch of 'du Pay' further embedded inclusive practices, enhancing digital payment solutions for its customers. A significant enhancement in customer service is announced with a 94% reduction in MNMI retail visits, streamlining services, and significantly enhancing the overall customer experience with the successful adoption of self-service kiosks and eSIM technology, paving the way for a more digital and efficient service model. As part of its commitment to social well-being and economic prosperity, du launched the UAE's first AI-driven agritech platform with Gracia Group, focusing on advancing agricultural sustainability. du's collaborative efforts with global leaders like Microsoft, AWS, NVIDIA, and Huawei have cemented its reputation as a frontrunner in AI and digital transformation, driving the UAE's journey towards sustainable development. Additionally, du has showcased commitment to global standards by aligning its sustainability reporting with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Dubai Financial Market ESG reporting guidelines. For more information on du's sustainability initiatives, please visit About du du adds life to life with a comprehensive portfolio of mobile, fixed, broadband, entertainment services, and fintech solutions. Through a digital-first approach powered by ultra-reliable fiber and 5G technology, du delivers bespoke solutions leveraging cloud computing, AI-driven analytics, advanced cybersecurity, and IoT integration. As a trusted digital telco enabler spearheading the UAE's digital transformation, we collaborate with a dynamic partner ecosystem to propel industries and society toward operational excellence, shaping a more connected and digitally advanced future across the region.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EU changes to sustainability law risk company lawsuits, legal scholars say
By Kate Abnett BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The European Union's plans to cut back sustainability reporting rules could expose European companies to more climate change-related lawsuits, 31 legal scholars said in a letter published on Friday. The European Commission in February proposed loosening corporate sustainability rules for businesses in Europe, responding to criticism that EU red tape hinders competitiveness with rivals in China and the United States. Among the changes, the EU would delete a requirement in its due diligence law for large companies to put into effect a "transition plan" to ensure they comply with the EU's targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Companies would still need to have such a plan, but would not be legally obliged to put it into practice. "Mere paperwork, instead of good faith action, would suffice in meeting the obligation," the legal scholars said in the letter. "The absence of a binding regulatory framework will correspond directly with increased liability risks for private actors," they said, referring to potential court cases from plaintiffs citing risks to the environment and public health. The letter's 31 signatories included Thom Wetzer, Associate Professor of Law and Finance at the University of Oxford, Christina Eckes, Director of the University of Amsterdam's Centre for European Law and Governance, and Wolf-Georg Ringe, Director of the Institute of Law and Economics at the University of Hamburg. The academics cited said court cases highlighted the climate-related legal risks businesses already face, citing pending cases against companies including TotalEnergies and Eni, from plaintiffs demanding the firms align their corporate actions with climate goals. A European Commission spokesperson declined to immediately comment on the letter. The Commission has previously said its proposals would make life easier for businesses while keeping the EU on track for its targets to cut CO2 emissions. The plan must be negotiated by the European Parliament and member states - a process that can take more than a year. European businesses have long said strict regulations hampered their ability to compete globally, with U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive deregulation drive increasing calls for Brussels to act. Campaigners have criticised the EU plans to soften sustainability rules as gutting corporate accountability.


Reuters
09-05-2025
- Business
- Reuters
EU changes to sustainability law risk company lawsuits, legal scholars say
BRUSSELS, May 9 (Reuters) - The European Union's plans to cut back sustainability reporting rules could expose European companies to more climate change-related lawsuits, 31 legal scholars said in a letter published on Friday. The European Commission in February proposed loosening corporate sustainability rules for businesses in Europe, responding to criticism that EU red tape hinders competitiveness with rivals in China and the United States. Among the changes, the EU would delete a requirement in its due diligence law for large companies to put into effect a "transition plan" to ensure they comply with the EU's targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Companies would still need to have such a plan, but would not be legally obliged to put it into practice. "Mere paperwork, instead of good faith action, would suffice in meeting the obligation," the legal scholars said in the letter. "The absence of a binding regulatory framework will correspond directly with increased liability risks for private actors," they said, referring to potential court cases from plaintiffs citing risks to the environment and public health. The letter's 31 signatories included Thom Wetzer, Associate Professor of Law and Finance at the University of Oxford, Christina Eckes, Director of the University of Amsterdam's Centre for European Law and Governance, and Wolf-Georg Ringe, Director of the Institute of Law and Economics at the University of Hamburg. The academics cited said court cases highlighted the climate-related legal risks businesses already face, citing pending cases against companies including TotalEnergies and Eni, from plaintiffs demanding the firms align their corporate actions with climate goals. A European Commission spokesperson declined to immediately comment on the letter. The Commission has previously said its proposals would make life easier for businesses while keeping the EU on track for its targets to cut CO2 emissions. The plan must be negotiated by the European Parliament and member states - a process that can take more than a year. European businesses have long said strict regulations hampered their ability to compete globally, with U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive deregulation drive increasing calls for Brussels to act. Campaigners have criticised the EU plans to soften sustainability rules as gutting corporate accountability.