Sustainability at ALS

Our path to a greener future!

sky view of forest and windmills in background

How do we define sustainability?

Sustainability at ALS

At ALS, we define sustainability as the careful use of resources designed for natural regeneration. Thus, sustainability is one of the most important factors for economic stability and long-term growth.

We understand resources to include both internal factors (human, social and financial capital) and external factors (services). Hence, we respect and ensure compliance with social and ethical standards (labor and human rights) and are committed to environmentally-aware procurement. This is confirmed by the annual certification by the EcoVadis rating platform.

Gold Ecovadis Sustainability Rating 2023

ALS's Sustainability Strategy

Preparing for the future

Our company is decentralised and has vastly different requirements in all of our countries in which we operate. We do not dictate the strategic orientation strictly from above but deliberately allow the individual countries room to maneuver; this also applies to sustainability. Here, we rely on a broadly diversified approach with various solutions. We leave the implementation of the sustainability concepts to our respective units. However, we are all dedicated to green thinking.

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Looking Ahead

Future Sustainability Plans

We will permanently prioritise the sustainability issue and continually examine what contribution we can make to green thinking/acting. To this end, we constantly monitor which technological and structural innovations are available. An exchange of information about this takes place on all levels and between all our locations. From this, we derive more projects which contribute to the careful use of natural resources. To be able to put innovative approaches into practice, we provide financial and personnel resources for the further development of sustainability in our operative business.

Benefits For Our Customers

We are committed to reducing the CO2 emissions derived from our operations. However, this can only be achieved together with our partners and customers. Wherever possible, we pass the positive effects achieved on to our customers.

Our Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals

At ALS, we align our actions with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These global goals guide our efforts, ensuring we add significant value for our customers and actively promote the green transition as an attractive employer. Our commitment to the SDGs reflects our promise to our employees, customers, and society. We believe that our consistent alignment with these goals can drive both ecological and social changes.

Focus on Two Priority SDGs

We have strategically chosen to focus on two of the seventeen SDGs where we can have the greatest impact. Our holistic approach considers all possible directions for defining and implementing measures with the most significant impact.

SDG number 9 : industry, innovation and infrastructure

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

In today's globalized world, contributing to sustainability is essential. We do this by implementing environmentally friendly practices and complying with strict environmental regulations. A key aspect of our sustainability strategy is cooperation with universities, offering both scientific and economic benefits. Universities also provide a platform for knowledge exchange, which in the long term, leads to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness of our processes.

Economic Cooperation

Economic cooperation strengthens the competitiveness of the companies involved. Working closely with universities, we optimize our services and adapt them to the latest market requirements, leading to cost savings and greater customer satisfaction. Joint innovation projects can open new business areas contributing to sustainable development.

Examples of Successful Cooperation

Our collaboration with Antwerp Management School (AMS) and Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) demonstrates the success of partnerships as this allows us to put research results into practice quickly. The close integration of science and industry leads to sustainable and forward-looking approaches, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

Antwerp Management School Ruhr-Universität Bochur

SDG 13: Climate Action

Customs play a crucial role in global trade and can significantly contribute to promoting sustainability and climate protection. Here are some key areas where customs impact climate protection:

CO2 Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

The CBAM, introduced by the European Union, ensures that imported goods meet the same environmental standards as those produced within the EU. This mechanism aims to reduce CO₂ emissions and ensure fair competition. From 2026, the CBAM will be fully applied, affecting industries such as cement, iron, and steel.

Import Bans and Restrictions

Customs monitors and controls the import of environmentally harmful goods or those that violate international agreements, such as hazardous waste and products under the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). These measures help protect the environment and preserve biodiversity.

Promotion of Sustainable Goods

Customs facilitations for sustainable goods are essential. Environmentally friendly products benefit from reduced customs duties or other concessions. This includes goods made from recycled materials or those that are particularly energy-efficient, encouraging companies to adopt more sustainable production methods.

Monitoring of Chemical Substances

Customs plays a vital role in monitoring the import and export of chemical substances, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. This minimizes pollution and protects the health of people and nature.

Find Out More

For more information about our sustainability measures or to obtain copies of our certifications, please contact our lead representative, Jessica Stolzenberg, directly.

Jessica Stolzenberg

Sustainability Representative ALS Group

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Focus on Two Priority SDGs