The Social Aspect of ESG

Implementing sustainable development principles within a company and adhering to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria is not limited to environmental and climate issues. Each of the ESG components is equally important, which is why businesses should place just as much emphasis on social responsibility and corporate governance. This comprehensive approach to responsibility is particularly evident now, during the war in Ukraine, says Dagmara Janik, Brand Director at 7R.

Caring for the well-being of local communities is one of the key areas of ESG strategy. Every company operates within a specific context and must take into account its impact on the surrounding environment. This has been particularly evident in recent months, as so many companies have joined the effort to provide aid to Ukraine and to those who have been forced to flee their country as a result of the war.

7R participated in initiatives organized by the Polish Red Cross, Employers of Poland, and Corporate Connections, among others. Meanwhile, the company’s warehouse in Kielce served as a collection point for humanitarian aid organized by the Świętokrzyskie Provincial Office.

Socially engaged

Social issues are often closely linked to environmental concerns. 7R builds eco-friendly warehouse and production facilities, keeping in mind just how much modern technology can help achieve climate neutrality. That is why the developer’s facilities increasingly feature photovoltaic panels, implement effective water management, and are surrounded by, for example, flower meadows or additional plantings. This matters both for the people who work in a given facility and for nearby residents, as 7R’s buildings blend into the landscape and become an integral part of it.

The company responds flexibly to day-to-day changes and remains committed to its social responsibilities.

“We talk to residents and local government bodies. If there are needs or issues that need to be addressed or incorporated into our investment plans, we listen. If there’s an opportunity to help locally, we take action,” says Dagmara Janik.

For example, during the pandemic, 7R provided a CareBox modular triage unit to the hospital in Starachowice for patients suspected of having COVID-19.

Magazine Culture

Corporate social responsibility can take many different forms. In the case of 7R, one such form is the fusion of the art world with industrial activity, combined with an intriguing blend of environmental themes.

“We launched our own concept for promoting art—7R Warehouse of Art. As part of this project, we held an exhibition of graphic art inside our warehouse in 2019. This year, in collaboration with the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw, we organized the first edition of a nationwide competition for artists at the beginning of their professional careers, which also promotes environmental issues,” explains the Brand Director at 7R.

A total of 26 entries were submitted to the competition across three different categories: mural, eco-friendly gadget, and ergonomic seating. The theme was “Technology. Ecology. People. Coexistence.” The competition jury selected three winners in each category. The winning designs are set to be implemented at 7R warehouses.

The submitted works demonstrate an excellent understanding of environmental issues and are characterized by original concepts and a distinctive visual style.

“Supporting young artists and promoting environmental education are part of our efforts to address challenges in the areas of environmental and social responsibility,”adds Dagmara Janik.

Another social goal of the company is to actively foster a passion for and talent in competitive sports among its stakeholders. This is reflected, for example, in its sponsorship and support of the 7R Rowmix Team p/b 72D cycling team (road and MTB) and its co-organization with the city of Gdynia of the 7R CST MTB Gdynia Marathon.